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Wrist and Hand Pain – When to See Your Physio

26/04/2022

Our wrist and hand joints receive frequent use on a daily basis. Comprised of a complex range of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints there is plenty of potential for experiencing painful injury which can make performing basic tasks such as driving, carrying shopping bags and typing difficult. Wrist and hand injuries most commonly occur as a result of trauma, overuse or the natural ageing process. At the first sign of injury, it is advisable to book an appointment with a hand physiotherapist so that the cause of your pain can be accurately diagnosed and a treatment plan formulated. Orthosports Physiotherapy works closely with the https://www.thehandphysioclinic.com.au/ in our rooms at Concord. The Hand Physio clinic provides hand physio at the Concord rooms.

 

How Hand and Wrist Pain Occurs

Most hand and wrist injuries occur whilst playing sports. Wrist ligament sprains are the most common type of injury, which can happen when a person falls whilst their hand is outstretched. The sudden impact from hitting a hard surface causes the wrist to bend beyond its usual capacity, leading to stretching and tearing of the stabilising ligaments.

Wrist injuries can also occur when playing contact sports, which have a high risk of experiencing trauma to the wrist/forearm. Examination will indicate whether there is a risk of fracture following the trauma. X-ray is often required to exclude fracture.

People who suffer from medical conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome are at a higher risk of experiencing wrist pain, due to the effects of inflammation and nerve compression.

 

What are the Symptoms of Wrist and Hand Pain?

Symptoms can vary widely, depending upon the extent and type of injury you have sustained. In general, you will experience the following:

  • Tender joints
  • Swelling, redness or bruising
  • Pain which is most acute when carrying out your usual movements and activities

 

How is Wrist Pain Treated?

In consultation with your physiotherapist at the hand Physio Clinic, a tailored treatment program will be developed to alleviate your symptoms and support your recovery. Following an initial conversation about your injury and potential causes of wrist pain, a full assessment of the wrist will be performed. You may also be referred for X-ray.

Treatment options will depend on how your injury occurred, with most wrist pain treatments involving:

  • The use of a splint to immobilize the wrist and prevent further damage
  • Professional advice on injury prevention
  • Rehabilitation exercises
  • Potential surgery, in cases where physiotherapy fails to improve your symptoms

 

When to Visit Your Physio

If you experience any of the above symptoms, or if pain does not subside following rest, it is advisable to visit your physio or doctor as soon as possible. Physiotherapy treatment is often effective for hand and wrist pain. Once a diagnosis has been made, your treatment plan can commence.

 

Experiencing Wrist Pain? Visit  https://www.thehandphysioclinic.com.au/ today.

We have a certified hand physiotherapist on site with a wealth of experience in treating such injuries. If you have been experiencing hand or wrist pain, or if you want to learn strategies to minimise your risk of recurring injury, please call today on 9744 2201 to book an appointment.