Overview
Hand and wrist pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek specialist assessment, and it can stem from a wide range of causes, including nerve compression, tendon irritation, arthritis, ligament injury or fracture. Because treatment differs significantly depending on the cause, an accurate diagnosis is the essential first step. Ms Anna Moon carries out a thorough assessment to identify the source of pain and recommend the right pathway forward.
What is the Treatments
- Detailed clinical history and examination
- Nerve conduction studies or imaging where needed
- Splinting or activity modification for many causes
- Injections to reduce inflammation or pain
- Surgical treatment where a structural cause is identified
The Procedure
Assessment typically begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, including when pain occurs and what makes it better or worse, followed by a clinical examination. Depending on the findings, further investigations such as X-ray or nerve conduction studies may be arranged. Treatment is then tailored to the specific diagnosis, whether that’s a nerve, tendon, joint or bone-related cause.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery depends entirely on the underlying cause identified. Ms Anna Moon provides a clear explanation of the diagnosis, the expected recovery pathway, and appropriate follow-up to monitor progress once treatment begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common causes of hand and wrist pain?
Common causes include nerve compression such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendon conditions like trigger finger, arthritis, and injuries such as fractures or ligament sprains.
When should hand or wrist pain be assessed?
Pain that persists for more than a few weeks, worsens, or affects daily activities such as gripping or sleeping is generally worth having assessed by a hand surgeon.
Do I need a scan before seeing a hand surgeon?
Not necessarily. Many conditions can be assessed through clinical examination, with imaging arranged afterwards if needed to confirm a diagnosis.
Can hand pain be a sign of something more serious?
Occasionally, persistent pain can indicate an underlying condition such as arthritis or nerve compression that benefits from earlier diagnosis, so assessment is generally advisable.
