Wrist pain (synonym: wrist arthralgia; ICD-10-GM M25.53: joint pain: forearm) is a commonly reported complaint that can have many causes.
Anatomically and functionally affected by the wrist are:
- Joint between the forearm and proximal carpus (articulatio radiocarpalis) and the articular junction between the proximal and distal row of carpal bones (articulatio mediocarpalis).
- Ligaments between the forearm bones and the carpal bones, between the carpal bones, and between the carpal bones and the metacarpals
The articulatio radiocarpalis (joint between the forearm and proximal carpus) is an egg yolk joint; this allows two different planes of motion:
- Palmar flexion (flexion of the hand toward the palm) and dorsal extension (extension of the hand toward the dorsum of the hand).
- Radial abduction (lateral displacement of the hand in the direction of the radius) and ulnar abduction (lateral displacement of the hand in the direction of the ulna).
Wrist pain can be a symptom of many diseases (see under “Differential diagnoses”).
Course and prognosis: Often the complaints disappear spontaneously (by itself). However, they can also occur more frequently and regularly, so that a visit to the doctor becomes necessary. Wrist pain can limit the sufferer to such an extent that everyday activities, such as carrying a folder, become painful. If the cause of the wrist pain has been found and treated, physical therapy (e.g., remedial gymnastics therapy to promote and maintain joint function) can be used to prevent recurrence (reoccurrence of the condition).
