Wrist Pain: Insights on Old Injuries and Recovery

Old wrist injury

Last November, I injured my wrist while performing a wrist strength exercise.
I didn't allow it to rest properly, which has resulted in a slower recovery.
Almost a year has passed, and I still have issues with a few movements.

1.
When I extend my right hand backward with my palm flat against my left lower back, I experience a slight pain on the ulnar side of my right hand (it's not very painful).
2.
When I hold a 10 kg dumbbell in my right hand and let it hang naturally with my palm perpendicular to the ground, I feel pain on the ulnar side, which worsens with heavier weights.

I do not experience pain with other movements, only the two mentioned above.
I would like to ask the doctor where there might still be an injury in my wrist.

Lin Xiansheng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/26

Dr. Yin Xinbei reply Rehabilitation

It is possible that an old injury has not healed due to a lack of proactive treatment.
Please visit the rehabilitation department for further treatment.

Reply Date: 2016/10/26

More Info

Wrist pain, particularly following an old injury, can be a complex issue that often requires a thorough understanding of the underlying anatomy and the healing process. In your case, the injury occurred nearly a year ago, and despite the passage of time, you are still experiencing discomfort during specific movements. This suggests that the injury may not have healed completely or that there may be lingering issues affecting your wrist function.

When you mention pain on the ulnar side of your wrist (the side closest to your little finger) during certain movements, it raises several possibilities. The wrist is composed of multiple bones, ligaments, and tendons, and injuries can lead to various complications, including tendonitis, ligament sprains, or even issues related to the cartilage in the wrist joint.

1. Tendonitis: Given that your pain occurs during specific movements, it is possible that you are experiencing tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendons. The wrist has several tendons that can become irritated, especially if they were not allowed to heal properly after the initial injury. The ulnar side of the wrist is particularly associated with the flexor carpi ulnaris tendon, which could be involved in your pain.

2. Ligament Injury: If the injury involved a significant force, it could have affected the ligaments in the wrist. Ligament injuries can lead to instability in the joint, which may cause pain during certain movements, especially those that put stress on the wrist.

3. Cartilage Damage: Another possibility is that there may be damage to the cartilage within the wrist joint itself. This type of injury can lead to pain during specific movements, particularly those that involve weight-bearing or twisting motions.

4. Scar Tissue Formation: After an injury, scar tissue can form, which may restrict movement and cause pain. If the scar tissue is pressing on nerves or limiting the range of motion, it could explain the discomfort you are experiencing.

5. Repetitive Strain: If you have continued to use your wrist without adequate rest, you may have exacerbated the initial injury, leading to chronic pain. This is particularly relevant if you have engaged in activities that require repetitive wrist motion or heavy lifting.

Given these possibilities, it is crucial to seek a comprehensive evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably a specialist in rehabilitation or orthopedics. They may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI or ultrasound, to assess the soft tissues and structures in your wrist. Additionally, a physical therapist can help develop a tailored rehabilitation program that focuses on strengthening the wrist, improving flexibility, and addressing any biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your pain.

In the meantime, consider the following self-care strategies to help manage your wrist pain:
- Rest: Allow your wrist to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

- Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

- Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore function and prevent future injuries.

- Ergonomic Adjustments: If your activities involve repetitive wrist motions, consider making ergonomic adjustments to your workspace or technique to reduce strain on your wrist.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your wrist pain is related to the old injury, a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the exact cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention and proper rehabilitation can significantly improve your wrist function and quality of life.

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