Wrist & Hand Conditions

Understanding Wrist and Hand Conditions

Wrist and hand pain can be distressing, impacting daily activities and diminishing quality of life. At Peak Physiotherapy & Wellness, we are committed to providing comprehensive care to address the diverse causes of wrist and hand pain. This guide aims to help you understand the various factors contributing to wrist and hand discomfort and how physiotherapy can offer effective solutions.

Common Causes of Wrist and Hand Pain

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Overuse of the wrist and hand muscles, commonly associated with activities like typing, using handheld devices, or performing manual labor, can result in RSIs such as tendinitis, tenosynovitis, or de Quervain's syndrome, causing pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

• Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the wrist and hand joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced function.

• Fractures: Fractures of the wrist bones (radius, ulna) or hand bones (metacarpals, phalanges) can occur due to trauma, falls, or sports injuries, causing acute pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist and hand.

• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the wrist and hand, such as extensor or flexor tendinitis, can result from overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden increases in activity, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty gripping or lifting objects.

• Ganglion Cysts: Ganglion cysts, noncancerous fluid-filled lumps, often develop near joints or tendons in the wrist and hand, causing pain, discomfort, and limited mobility.

• Nerve Compression Syndromes: Compression of nerves in the wrist or hand, such as the median nerve (carpal tunnel syndrome) or the ulnar nerve (cubital tunnel syndrome), can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Our experienced physiotherapists at Peak Physiotherapy and Wellness employ evidence-based techniques to address the root causes of neck pain and promote optimal neck function. Our personalized approach includes:

• Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques, including massage, joint mobilization, and manipulation, to alleviate muscle tension and improve joint mobility.

• Exercise Prescription: Tailored home exercise programs are designed  to improve mobility, strengthen muscles,  improve posture, optimize proprioception and enhance overall neck stability.

• Postural Education: Guidance on maintaining proper posture during daily activities to prevent and alleviate neck pain.

• Modalities: Application of therapeutic modalities, such as heat, ice, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), or interferential current (IFC) may be used to alleviate pain and promote healing. 

• Acupuncture/Dry Needling: Traditional Acupuncture may be applied for a short period of time to help improve blood flow, enhance healing, decrease nerve sensitivity and alleviate pain. Dry needling may be implemented to decrease size of muscle knots, reduce 

• Activity Modification: Guidance on modifying activities and ergonomic adjustments to prevent further aggravation of the wrist and hand and facilitate healing.

• Splinting or Bracing: Provision of custom splints or braces to support and protect the wrist and hand, particularly during activities that exacerbate pain or strain.

• Functional Rehabilitation: Progressive rehabilitation exercises aimed at restoring normal wrist and hand function and facilitating a safe return to daily activities and tasks.

What to Expect During Physiotherapy Sessions

• Comprehensive Assessment: A thorough evaluation of your condition, including symptoms, limitations, and lifestyle factors.

• Tailored Treatment Plan: A personalized plan addressing your specific needs, comprising exercises, manual therapy, and pain management techniques.

• Hands-On Therapy: Sessions may involve manual techniques and exercises guided by our physiotherapists.

• Education and Advice: Information on proper posture, exercises, and self-care strategies to aid recovery and prevent further injury.

• Progress Monitoring: Regular follow-up sessions to track progress, modify the treatment plan, and ensure the best possible outcomes.

If you're experiencing wrist or hand pain, don't let it hold you back from living life to the fullest. Schedule an appointment with Peak Physiotherapy and Wellness to receive expert care and embark on the path to pain relief and improved function. Let us empower you to regain control of your wrist and hand health and well-being.