Wrist Pain

Based upon your answers, tendonitis, wrist sprain or a muscle strain are more likely than a problem within the joint. However, if you have had prior injury or history of arthritis, osteoarthritis of the wrist is also a possibility.

To decrease pain, rest the wrist and avoid overuse. Over-the-counter pain medications, a splint, and topical treatments (such as IcyHot, BenGay or ice) may help.

While these measures may help, it is important that you see a physician if symptoms are getting worse or not improving over time.

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Online Medical Reviewer: Shmerling, Robert H. MD Date Last Reviewed: 4/24/2006 Date Last Modified: 3/30/2006 Source: from Harvard Health Decision Guides, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.

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