Chronic Wrist Pain: Should You Consider Surgery for Relief?

Wrist issues

Hello, I injured my wrist in high school.
The injury occurred when I was giving a family member a ride and fell, using my right hand to brace myself on the ground.
At that time, I only felt a slight pain and didn't pay much attention to it.
However, in the past two years, my wrist has suddenly become very painful.
I have undergone rehabilitation, but it hasn't helped.
The doctor took some X-rays and mentioned that there is a slight separation between the bones and some fluid inside.
I also consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, who initially seemed to help, but then it stopped being effective.
The practitioner said my bones are slightly misaligned and that the injury has been too long-standing to be effective.
I would like to ask if surgery would be a better option for my situation, as my job requires me to use wrist strength for extended periods.

Yu Fang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/29

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, based on your letter, I am unable to determine your diagnosis and cannot provide you with any recommendations.
Please visit the clinic for a detailed examination.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2018/01/29

More Info

Chronic wrist pain can be a significant issue, especially when it affects your daily activities and work. Based on your description, it seems that you have a history of wrist injury from high school, which may have led to long-term complications. The fact that you have been experiencing pain for the past two years, despite undergoing rehabilitation, suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed more thoroughly.

From your account, it appears that there is some separation between the bones in your wrist and possibly some fluid accumulation, which could indicate inflammation or other pathological changes in the joint. This kind of chronic pain can often be attributed to conditions such as ligament injuries, tendonitis, or even early signs of arthritis, especially if the injury was not adequately treated at the time it occurred.

When considering surgery for chronic wrist pain, several factors need to be evaluated:
1. Diagnosis: It is crucial to have a clear and accurate diagnosis. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI can help determine the extent of any damage to the bones, ligaments, or tendons in your wrist. If there is significant structural damage or if conservative treatments have failed, surgery may be indicated.

2. Conservative Treatment: Before opting for surgery, it is essential to exhaust all conservative treatment options. This may include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and possibly splinting or bracing to stabilize the wrist. If these methods have not provided relief, it may be time to consider surgical options.

3. Type of Surgery: If surgery is deemed necessary, the type of procedure will depend on the specific diagnosis. For example, if there is a ligament tear, a repair may be performed. If there is significant joint damage, procedures such as arthroscopy or even joint fusion may be considered.

4. Impact on Quality of Life: Since you mentioned that your work requires significant use of your wrist, it is important to consider how your pain is affecting your ability to perform your job. If the pain is debilitating and limits your functionality, surgery may be a reasonable option to restore your quality of life.

5. Consultation with a Specialist: It is advisable to consult with an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in wrist injuries. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss the potential benefits and risks of surgery based on your specific condition.

In conclusion, while surgery can be an effective solution for chronic wrist pain, it should be considered after careful evaluation and discussion with your healthcare provider. If conservative treatments have not worked and your quality of life is significantly affected, surgery may be a viable option to relieve your pain and restore function to your wrist. Always ensure that you have a thorough understanding of the potential outcomes and recovery process associated with any surgical intervention.

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