Wrist pain is a surprisingly common complaint amongst visitors to our chiropractic clinic in Stoke on Trent. The are many potential causes of wrist pain, due to the complex design of the wrist. There are also several conditions which affect the forearms, hands, elbows, and spine that can manifest as wrist pain, which makes diagnosis challenging.
Visiting our chiropractor in Stoke on Trent often results in the quick resolution of wrist pain. That’s because the holistic approach of our chiropractor helps to identify the underlying cause of wrist pain, instead of simply treating the symptoms.
Common Symptoms Of Wrist Pain
The wrist is a complex part of the body. It contains a variety of nerves, bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and other tissues. This complexity means that wrist pain can involve a wide variety of sensations, including:
- General soreness
- Stinging or burning sensations
- Tingling
- Stiffness and associated mobility issues
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Swelling
- Feelings of heat or coolness
In some cases, you may feel pain in your forearm or hand as well. You may also notice that pain worsens during certain times of the day.
What Causes Wrist Pain?
The wrist is one of the most frequently-used parts of the body. Every time you touch an object or move your arm, the wrist will be involved in some way. This is the reason why wrist pain is often caused by overuse or injury.
There are also several systemic diseases which can affect the wrist and cause pain. They include osteoarthritis, gout, cancer, Kienböck’s disease, De Quervain’s disease, and cellulitis.
Although there are many potential causes of wrist pain, there are several conditions we see at our chiropractic clinic in Stoke on Trent:
Wrist sprains
Although a wrist sprain is generally a minor issue that can be treated with rest and ice, it is usually a good idea to have it assessed by a chiropractor in Stoke on Trent. They can determine if it really is just a sprain or a more serious injury.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
CTS occurs when there is excessive pressure placed on the median nerve in the wrist. This is often triggered by prolonged pressure on the carpal tunnel, which runs along the underside of the wrist. Its symptoms usually include tingling in the fingers, numbness, and pain.
Repetitive strain injuries
Repetitive strain injuries are usually caused by work with your hands for long periods with your wrists in the same position. When you visit our chiropractor in Stoke on Trent , he can help you identify the root cause of the injury and advise on ergonomic changes to address it. He can also provide several treatments to ease the discomfort you may be feeling.
Peripheral Nerve Entrapments (Pinched Nerve)
A pinched nerve occurs when tissue places excessive pressure on a nerve. The most common types of nerve complaints involving the wrists that we see at our chiropractic clinic (aside from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) are:
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome
When the radial nerve in the elbow is compressed. This can sometimes affect the entire forearm. - Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Pressure is place on the ulnar nerve in the hand, which affects the fingers and wrist. - Tunnel of Guyon
This condition also affects the ulnar nerve but occurs when it is pinched in the Guyon tunnel, which is in the wrist.
Arthritis
Many forms of arthritis can cause wrist pain. Fortunately, regularly visiting a chiropractor can often reduce the amount of pain that this causes.
Chiropractic Care for Wrist Pain
When you first visit City Chiropractic in Stoke, we will take a brief patient history and discuss the nature of your wrist pain. We will then perform a thorough physical examination which assesses not only the condition of your wrist, but your hands, arms, and spine. This holistic approach helps us identify the root cause of your pain.
In some cases, a bone scan or MRI may be required. If we believe your pain is caused by a serious disease or you have a broken bone, we will refer you to a GP or the appropriate specialist.
If chiropractic care is appropriate for your condition, we’ll explain what your treatment plan would entail before proceeding. Some of the treatments which may be used include joint adjustments, articulation, hot/cold therapy, and massage. We may also recommend lifestyle and ergonomic changes.
The number of visits required to alleviate your wrist pain will vary based upon the type of condition that you are suffering from. We will make a plan that reduces your pain levels and helps you get back to your everyday life as soon as possible.
If you are experiencing wrist pain, make an appointment with City Chiropractic by calling 01782 848 184 today.