Why does my wrist hurt

Wrist pain can limit everyday activities such as typing, cooking or lifting objects and may arise suddenly or develop gradually over time. While occasional mild discomfort often follows increased activity or minor strains, persistent or worsening pain may signal an underlying issue that needs attention. Understanding the common causes of wrist pain helps you adopt effective self care measures, prevent further injury and know when to seek professional evaluation.

Anatomy of the wrist
The wrist is a complex joint formed by the ends of the radius and ulna bones of the forearm and eight small carpal bones. These bones are held together by a network of ligaments and cushioned by cartilage. Tendons connect muscles of the forearm to the bones, allowing you to bend, straighten and rotate the wrist. Nerves from the neck travel through the wrist to the hand, providing sensation and controlling movement. Pain can originate from any of these structures.

Overuse injuries and tendon irritation
Repetitive motions such as typing, using a mouse or playing racquet sports can irritate tendons and their sheaths. This overuse leads to inflammation, known as tendinitis, which causes aching and stiffness, especially when you extend or flex the wrist. Resting the wrist, applying ice and gently stretching the tendons can relieve symptoms. Using ergonomic supports such as a wrist rest and adjusting workstation height helps prevent recurrence.

Carpal tunnel and nerve compression
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage on the palm side of the wrist through which the median nerve travels to the hand. Swelling of the tendons or other tissues in this tunnel can compress the nerve, producing pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers. Symptoms often worsen at night or when holding the wrist bent for long periods. Wearing a splint that holds the wrist in a neutral position and performing nerve gliding exercises may help. In persistent cases your doctor may recommend steroid injections or surgery to relieve pressure.

Sprains and ligament strains
A sudden twist or impact can stretch or partially tear the ligaments that stabilise the wrist, causing pain, swelling and reduced motion. Common scenarios include falling onto an outstretched hand or a forceful impact in contact sports. Initial treatment with rest, ice, compression and elevation followed by guided rehabilitation exercises restores strength and flexibility. Severe sprains sometimes require immobilisation in a splint or cast.

Arthritis and joint degeneration
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage protecting joint surfaces wears away, leading to bone rubbing on bone and causing pain, stiffness and bone spurs. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks the joint lining, producing inflammation, pain and deformity. Both types of arthritis can affect the wrist. Early diagnosis allows treatment with anti inflammatory medication, occupational therapy to teach joint protection techniques and, if necessary, splinting or surgery to preserve function.

Fractures and bone injury
Wrist fractures most often involve the distal radius and are usually the result of a fall onto an outstretched hand. Immediate severe pain, swelling and inability to move the wrist warrant prompt X ray imaging. Treatment ranges from casting to surgical fixation with plates and screws depending on the fracture’s pattern. Proper alignment and rehabilitation are essential to restoring strength and preventing long term stiffness.

Ganglion cysts
A ganglion cyst is a fluid filled lump that arises from the joint capsule or tendon sheath. These cysts most commonly appear on the back of the wrist and can vary in size. They may cause aching or aching that worsens with activity or pressure. Many ganglion cysts resolve spontaneously. If the cyst is painful or limits movement your doctor may aspirate it or recommend surgical removal.

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Activities that require repeated grasping or twisting trigger pain that radiates up the forearm. The Finkelstein test helps diagnose it. Treatment includes splinting the thumb and wrist, anti inflammatory medication and targeted stretching exercises. Severe cases may require cortisone injection.

Nerve disorders and referred pain
Conditions in the neck such as a slipped disc or spinal stenosis can compress nerves that travel down the arm and into the wrist, causing referred pain or tingling. A thorough examination and imaging help identify spinal causes. Physical therapy to improve posture and nerve root mobility may ease both neck and wrist symptoms.

When to seek medical advice
Mild wrist pain that improves with rest and simple self care usually does not require medical attention. However you should consult your GP or a hand specialist if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, visible deformity, loss of sensation or weakness in the hand, or if pain persists beyond two weeks despite self care. Early evaluation ensures accurate diagnosis and prevents long term complications.

Self care strategies for relief
To soothe wrist pain, rest and immobilise the wrist in a neutral position with a support brace. Apply ice for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation. Perform gentle range of motion exercises once acute pain subsides. Use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication as directed for pain relief. Maintain good posture and ergonomic positioning during work and hobbies. Strengthening exercises under professional guidance help restore function.

Summary
Wrist pain can result from tendon irritation, nerve compression, ligament sprains, arthritis, fractures, cysts, tenosynovitis or referred pain from the neck. Most causes respond well to rest, ice, splinting, anti-inflammatory medication and guided exercises. Persistent or severe symptoms require medical assessment to diagnose fractures, nerve entrapment or systemic conditions and to guide appropriate treatment. By taking early action and following self care strategies you can protect your wrist, reduce pain and maintain full function for daily activities and sport.