Wrist Pain
We're sorry you have wrist pain!
The goal of this guide is to provide information while awaiting evaluation with your doctor, or for additional information after you have seen him or her. Please keep in mind that this guide is not intended to replace a face-to-face evaluation with your doctor. The diagnoses provided are among the most common that could explain your symptoms, but the list is not exhaustive and there are many other possibilities. In addition, more than one condition may be present at the same time. For example, a person with rheumatoid arthritis could also have tendonitis.
The wrist is prone to pain because it is frequently overused and has a complicated anatomy, with many structures packed into a small space.
Certain symptoms suggest a serious cause of wrist pain that requires prompt attention. It's important to ask questions about these symptoms first.
Do you have severe wrist pain and any of the following symptoms:
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fever
-
redness
-
marked swelling
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inability to use the joint
-
recent significant trauma (a fall, car accident, etc.)?
That's good! It's helpful next to sort out how severe your symptoms are in terms of your ability to function.
Are your symptoms mild? For example, are you still able to do most or all of your usual activities?
Has your pain been present for less than three weeks?
So, your pain is not mild and has been present for more than three weeks.
Have you had any change in activity that might have triggered your wrist pain, such as an increase in typing or other repetitive stress?
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain, and it may improve on its own over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid aggravating those activities that may have triggered the pain; a splint or brace may be helpful. Over-the-counter pain medications, topical treatments (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may also provide some relief.
Because more information about your wrist pain may help sort out its cause, it would be helpful if you could answer a few more questions.
The most likely cause or causes of your wrist pain depends in part on your age.
Are you at least 60 years old?
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Based upon your answers, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis are likely possibilities. Numbness and tingling usually indicate some irritation of a nerve. Since you do not describe significant swelling, it's unlikely that your symptoms are due to inflammation within the joint.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), an injury, or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is usually less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to wrist arthritis (such as a condition related to rheumatoid arthritis) or gout (especially if you are male). The numbness and/or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which commonly accompanies wrist swelling.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if you have marked swelling.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is not the only painful joint.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), tendonitis or fibromyalgia.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or fibromyalgia. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male). Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are at least 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or some combination of these.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. Numbness or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which often accompanies wrist swelling or arthritis.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is marked significant, especially if swelling is present.
More than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. In addition, your tingling and/or numbness raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which can accompany wrist swelling.
In addition, infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. Less likely is another form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Of course, there could be more than one of these conditions present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are at least 60 years old and one or more joints other than your wrist are bothering you.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon) is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
One or more of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain related to recent activities. It may improve on its own over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid aggravating those activities that may have triggered the pain; a splint or brace may be helpful. Over-the-counter pain medications, or topical treatments (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may also provide some relief.
Because more information about your wrist pain may help sort out its cause, it would be helpful if you could answer a few more questions.
The most likely cause or causes of your wrist pain depends in part on your age.
Are you at least 60 years old?
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Based upon your answers, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis are likely possibilities. Numbness and tingling usually indicate some irritation of a nerve. Since you do not describe significant swelling, it's unlikely that your symptoms are due to inflammation within the joint.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), an injury, or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is usually less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to wrist arthritis (such as a condition related to rheumatoid arthritis) or gout (especially if you are male); the numbness and/or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is not the only painful joint.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), tendonitis or fibromyalgia. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or fibromyalgia.
The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male). Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are at least 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or some combination of these.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. Numbness or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome (or other nerve disease). Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, one of the most likely causes of your joint pain is a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. The tingling and/or numbness raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling.
In addition, infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. Less likely is another form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are at least 60 years old and one or more joints other than your wrist are bothering you.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon) is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
One or more of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Have you had any change in activity that might have triggered your wrist pain, such as an increase in typing or other repetitive stress?
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain, and it may improve on its own over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid aggravating those activities that may have triggered the pain; a splint or brace may be helpful. Over-the-counter pain medications, apply topicals (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may also provide some relief.
More information about your wrist pain may be helpful to better understand why your wrist is hurting.
The most likely cause or causes of your wrist pain depends in part on your age.
Are you at least 60 years old?
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Based upon your answers, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis are likely possibilities. Numbness and tingling usually indicate some irritation of a nerve. Since you do not describe significant swelling, it's unlikely that your symptoms are due to inflammation within the joint.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), an injury, or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is usually less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the most likely causes of your joint pain are wrist arthritis such as a condition related to rheumatoid arthritis or gout (especially if you are male). The numbness and tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which commonly accompanies wrist swelling.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is not the only painful joint.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), tendonitis or fibromyalgia. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or fibromyalgia.
The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male). Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or gout (especially if you are male).
The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are at least 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or some combination of these.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. Numbness or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome (or other nerve disease).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition). Infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, one of the most likely causes of your joint pain is a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. The numbness and tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which commonly accompanies wrist swelling.
In addition, infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present.
Less likely is another form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis; more than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are at least 60 years old and one or more joints other than your wrist are bothering you.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon) is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present.
The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis. One or more of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present.
The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain related to recent activities. It may improve on its own over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid aggravating those activities that may have triggered the pain; a splint or brace may be helpful. Over-the-counter pain medications, topical treatments (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may also provide some relief.
More information about your wrist pain may be helpful to better understand why your wrist is hurting.
The most likely cause or causes of your wrist pain depends in part on your age.
Are you at least 60 years old?
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Based upon your answers, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis are likely possibilities. Numbness and tingling usually indicate some irritation of a nerve. Since you do not describe significant swelling, it's unlikely that your symptoms are due to inflammation within the joint.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), an injury, or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is usually less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to wrist arthritis (such as a condition related to rheumatoid arthritis) or gout (especially if you are male); the tingling and numbness suggests carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is not the only painful joint.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), tendonitis or fibromyalgia. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or fibromyalgia. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male). The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are at least 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a combination of both.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. Numbness or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome (or other nerve disease).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, one of the most likely causes of your joint pain is a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout; the numbness and tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which commonly accompanies wrist swelling.
In addition, infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present.
Less likely is another form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are at least 60 years old and one or more joints other than your wrist are bothering you.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon) is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
One or more of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Has your mild pain been present for less than three weeks?
So, your pain is mild but has been present for more than three weeks.
Have you had any change in activity that might have triggered your wrist pain, such as an increase in typing or other repetitive stress?
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain; it should improve over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, topical treatments (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice might be helpful. If symptoms are getting worse or do not go away, consult your physician.
Because more information about your wrist pain may help sort out its cause, it would be helpful if you could answer a few more questions.
The most likely cause or causes of your wrist pain depends in part on your age.
Are you at least 60 years old?
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Based upon your answers, tendonitis is a likely possibility. Numbness and tingling usually indicate some irritation of a nerve, so carpal tunnel syndrome could also be playing a role in your symptoms; it often accompanies wrist arthritis but may occur without a clear reason. Since you do not describe significant swelling, it's unlikely that your symptoms are due to inflammation within the joint.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.
While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), an injury, or gout (especially if you are male)
Infection is usually less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, your joint pain could be due to wrist arthritis (such as a condition related to rheumatoid arthritis) or gout (especially among men your age). The numbness and tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany any cause of wrist swelling.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are less than 60 years old and your wrist is not the only painful joint.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), tendonitis or fibromyalgia. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist or worsen, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or fibromyalgia. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or gout (especially if you are male).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition) or gout (especially if you are male). The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which commonly accompanies wrist swelling. A combination of these is also possible.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
In addition to pain in one wrist, do you have pain in other joints?
So, you are at least 60 years old and your wrist is the only painful joint right now.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon), is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or some combination of these.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, if symptoms persist, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Numbness or tingling raises the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome (or other nerve disease). Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout; the tingling and numbness may be due to carpal tunnel syndrome, a common problem when the wrist is swollen.
In addition, infection is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. Less likely is another form of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis (which generally causes bony enlargement but no true swelling) or rheumatoid arthritis (which usually affects multiple joints).
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
So, you are at least 60 years old and one or more joints other than your wrist are bothering you.
Swelling of the wrist is important because, when present, it usually means that the joint, rather than something near it (such as a tendon) is the source of the pain.
Is your wrist swollen?
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout. If there is no swelling, tendonitis is a good possibility.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if marked swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), tendonitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition).
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis. One or more of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Do you have numbness and/or tingling in your fingers?
Based on your answers, some of the most likely causes of your joint pain are degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. More than one of these may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
Based on your answers, the likely causes of your joint pain include degenerative joint disease (also called osteoarthritis), rheumatoid arthritis (or a related condition), or a form of crystal-induced arthritis such as gout or pseudogout.
Infection is less likely but is always a possibility when pain is significant, especially if swelling is present. The numbness and/or tingling raise the possibility of carpal tunnel syndrome which may accompany wrist swelling or arthritis.
More than one of these conditions may be present at the same time.
While over-the-counter pain medicines, a splint, rest and ice may be helpful, it is important that you see a physician to evaluate these symptoms.
You have completed the wrist pain decision guide. We hope your wrist pain goes away quickly but if it does not, contact your doctor and return here to update your symptoms or to find more information.
Remember, if your wrist pain is severe, followed significant injury or is associated with fever or marked swelling, you should see your doctor right away or even proceed to an emergency room.
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain, perhaps related to recent activities that triggered it. The pain should improve over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse, particularly those activities that might have triggered your wrist pain in the first place.
Over-the-counter pain medications, topical medications (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may be helpful.
If symptoms are getting worse or do not resolve, consult your physician.
Thank you for completing this decision guide.
So, your pain is mild and it's been present for less than three weeks. Just one more question:
Have you had any change in activity that might have triggered your mild wrist pain, such as an increase in typing or other repetitive stress?
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain; it should improve over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, topical treatments (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice might be helpful. If symptoms are getting worse or do not resolve, consult your physician.
Thank you for completing this decision guide.
Based upon your answers, your wrist pain could be due to tendonitis or a sprain, perhaps related to recent activities that triggered it.
The pain should improve over time.
To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse, particularly those activities that might have triggered your wrist pain in the first place.
Over-the-counter pain medications, topical medications (such as IcyHot or BenGay), or the application of ice may be helpful.
If symptoms are getting worse or do not resolve, consult your physician.
Thank you for completing this decision guide.
Based on your symptoms, you could have an infection, fracture or other serious cause of wrist pain. Contact your doctor or go to a local emergency room right away for evaluation!
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