Hand & Wrist Pain

Hand and wrist pain is extremely common. These areas contain small, delicate structures that are easily strained or injured. Repetitive use, daily wear and tear, or sudden trauma can all lead to pain and discomfort. 

While many minor issues can be managed at home with rest, ice or over-the-counter medications, more serious pain should be evaluated by a health care provider. At Banner Health, our orthopedic experts are here to help you find relief and restore function.  

What causes hand and wrist pain?

Hand and wrist pain can come from a variety of causes, including: 

• Overuse from devices like phones, tablets or keyboards 
• Repetitive motions and strain 
• Sprains, fractures or previous injuries 
• Nerve problems 
• Underlying medical conditions like arthritis or autoimmune disease 

Pain may originate in the bones, joints, tendons, nerves or soft tissues of the hand and wrist. 

Common hand and wrist conditions

There are a number of different causes and types of hand and wrist pain. Pain can originate in different areas of the complex skeletal structure of the hand and wrist, including:

• Bones
• Joints
• Soft tissue
• Tendons
• Nerves

Pain and swelling in the hand and wrist can occur from:

• Inflammation
• Nerve damage
• Repetitive motion and overuse
• Sprains, fractures or broken bones
• Chronic health conditions

Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of joints and a leading cause of pain and stiffness in the fingers, hand and wrist. Common types include: 

• Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on cartilage over time 
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease that damages joint linings 

Symptoms of arthritis may include: 

• Dull or sharp pain in the fingers, wrist or joints 
• Morning stiffness 
• Swelling or warmth around joints 
• Grinding sensations or joint looseness 
• Increased pain after repetitive motion 

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes pain, numbness or tingling in the hand and wrist. It happens when the median nerve is compressed—often due to overuse from typing or manual work.

Learn more about carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Congenital Hand Differences

Congenital hand differences are conditions that can affect the structure and function of the hand and wrist. These differences develop early in pregnancy and may involve changes in the bones, joints, soft tissues or tendons. While some are easily visible at birth, others require imaging for diagnosis. While some children have hands that function well despite an unusual appearance, others may experience challenges with daily activities.

Learn more about congenital hand differences.

Other peripheral compression neuropathies 

Peripheral compression neuropathies (also called nerve entrapment syndromes) happen when pressure is placed on a peripheral nerve, often due to repetitive motion, injury or swelling. This pressure affects nerve signals and can lead to pain, numbness or muscle weakness in the hands, arms, legs or feet. 

Learn more about peripheral compression neuropathies.  

Other conditions that cause hand and wrist pain

• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis: A tendon inflammation near the base of the thumb 
• Ganglion cysts: Fluid-filled lumps that commonly develop on the back of the wrist and can cause discomfort or restrict movement. 
• Gout or lupus: Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions 
• Fibromyalgia 
• Tendonitis 
• Trigger finger: A condition that causes your finger to catch or lock when bent 

Hand and wrist injuries

Injuries can lead to acute or chronic pain. Common injuries include: 

• Sprains or strains 
• Thumb or wrist sprain 
• Contusions or bruises 
• Dislocations (especially fingers) 
• Hand and wrist fractures 

If left untreated, these injuries can lead to long-term pain or mobility issues. 

If you’ve recently injured your hand or wrist, schedule an orthopedic evaluation today. 

How is hand and wrist pain treated?

Many hand and wrist issues improve with conservative treatment: 

• Rest and avoid aggravating activities 
• Use ice to reduce swelling 
• Take over-the-counter medications for pain and inflammation 
• Use a brace or splint to support healing 

Need help managing pain? Connect with a Banner orthopedic specialist.

Hand and wrist surgery options

If nonsurgical treatments aren’t enough or if you have a more serious injury or condition, your provider may recommend surgery. Common procedures include: 

• Joint denervation: A minimally invasive procedure to block pain signals from the joint 
• Joint surgery for arthritis: Replaces or stabilizes joints using implants 
• Nerve compression surgery: Relieves pressure on a nerve causing numbness or pain 
• Fracture or dislocation repair: May use screws, wires or plates to stabilize bones 
• Carpal tunnel release: Cuts the carpal ligament to relieve nerve pressure 
• Trigger finger release: Frees tendons to improve motion 
• Wrist fusion: Fuses bones in the wrist using a metal plate to relieve pain from arthritis or injury 

In some cases, prior surgeries or implants may wear out or fail over time. This may require: 

• Wrist revision surgery: A procedure to replace or adjust previous wrist implants, often performed when pain, instability or implant loosening occurs 

Hand and wrist surgery recovery

Recovery timelines vary based on your procedure and overall health, but many people return to regular activity within 6 to 8 weeks. Tips for recovery include: 

• Begin moving your fingers early to prevent stiffness 
• Use ice to reduce swelling after surgery 
• Follow your physical therapist’s instructions 
• Stick to your surgeon’s post-op plan 

Why choose Banner Health for hand and wrist care? 

At Banner Health, our orthopedic specialists understand how hand and wrist problems can impact your daily life. From minor strains to complex surgical needs, we offer: 

• Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging 
• Personalized treatment plans 
• Minimally invasive surgical options 
• On-site physical therapy and rehabilitation support 

We'll work with you every step of the way to reduce your pain and improve your function. 

Take the next step toward relief. Find a hand and wrist specialist near you.