Elbow, Wrist, & Hand Pain
Why Our Elbows, Wrists, and Hands Are Important
Consider how frequently we use our hands, wrists, and elbows during our daily activities. We utilize our elbows, wrists, and hands for driving, preparing meals, dressing, and much more. In reality, we depend on these joints to function daily. Your regular activities may become severely limited if you have pain in your hands, wrists, or elbows.
Causes of Elbow, Wrist, and Hand Pain
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the many reasons for wrist and hand pain. A particular form of hand nerve entrapment is carpal tunnel. It happens in the wrists, where tendons and a nerve connect the forearm to the hand, and the median nerve is compressed. Among its symptoms are:
- Hand numbness, burning, and pain
- Wrist pain that can radiate to the elbow
- Hand swelling
- Weakened grip and difficulty lifting small objects
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a constriction of the ulnar nerve-containing tissue in the elbow. This nerve goes from the shoulder to the wrist. Among its symptoms are:
- Tingling and numbness in the ring and pinky fingers
- Hand weakness
- Pain in the hands and fingers
Frequently playing sports and repetitive job responsibilities might lead to elbow pain. Bursitis, dislocations, golfer's elbow, osteoarthritis, sprains, strains, arthritis, and tendinitis are some additional causes of elbow pain.
When the tiny, liquid-filled sacs swell up, bursitis develops. The sacs are what provide support for the bones, tendons, and muscles close to joints. It's a painful condition.
In America, there are around 27 million people who have osteoarthritis. It may have an impact on the elbow, wrist, and hand joints. When you have osteoarthritis, the cartilage begins to wear away and the bones scrape against each other, causing pain. Degenerative arthritis is another name for osteoarthritis.
Tendonitis is an inflammation of a tendon. A tendon is a fibrous cord that joins a muscle to a bone. It most frequently affects the wrists and elbows. Tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, swimmer's shoulder, and pitcher's shoulder are additional names for tendonitis.
Physical Therapy for Elbow, Wrist and Hand Pain
Pain in the hands, wrists, and elbows can be treated with physical or occupational therapy. In fact, it might prevent you from needing surgery. What’s great about FYZICAL – Northwest El Paso is that we are a direct access clinic – meaning that you do not need a referral to come see us to treat your pain. To find the source of your pain, a physical therapist will evaluate your flexibility and strength. After a thorough evaluation, they will implement techniques to relieve the pain. Once the pain is minimized, the emphasis will then shift to increasing your range of motion. There will also be strength training exercises done. Passive treatments may include ice therapy, heat therapy, massage therapy, or electrical stimulation. The goal at FYZICAL is to improve your function, eliminate pain, and get you back to loving your life.
If you’re suffering from elbow, wrist, or hand pain, be sure to contact FYZICAL – Northwest El Paso to schedule a consultation today.