Wrist Ligament Injuries: Causes of Pain and Treatment Options

Wrist ligaments

Eight years ago, I severed two ligaments in my wrist due to a cut.
After surgery, I underwent rehabilitation for one month and everything seemed normal.
I had seen a doctor once, and at that time, the doctor informed me that being able to make a fist was the best outcome.
Recently, however, I have suddenly started experiencing sharp pain and cramping whenever I bend or exert force with my wrist.
I am unsure what could be causing this.

Ms. Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/12/27

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, generally speaking, cuts on the hand mostly involve tendons rather than ligaments.
Ligaments are much tougher than tendons and are less likely to be cut.
If there is a laceration of a tendon, the outcomes of debridement and suturing are usually good, but there is a risk of adhesions, which can lead to limited mobility in the future.
It is advisable to visit an orthopedic clinic for further examination by a physician.

Reply Date: 2018/12/27

More Info

Wrist ligament injuries can be quite complex, especially when they involve a history of trauma or surgical intervention. In your case, it seems that you sustained a significant injury to your wrist ligaments eight years ago, which required surgical repair. Following surgery, you experienced a period of rehabilitation and were able to regain some functionality, such as the ability to make a fist. However, the recent onset of pain during activities that involve bending or exerting force suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

There are several potential causes for the pain you are experiencing now:
1. Scar Tissue Formation: After surgery, scar tissue can develop around the surgical site. This scar tissue can sometimes restrict movement or cause pain when the wrist is used in certain ways. Over time, this can lead to discomfort, especially during activities that require bending or gripping.

2. Ligament Re-injury or Instability: Even after surgical repair, there is a possibility that the ligaments may not have healed completely or may have become unstable over time. This instability can lead to pain during movement, especially if the wrist is subjected to stress or strain.

3. Arthritis: Joint injuries can increase the risk of developing arthritis in the affected area. If you are experiencing pain that is exacerbated by movement, it could be a sign of early degenerative changes in the wrist joint.

4. Tendon Issues: The tendons that run along the wrist can also become inflamed or irritated, leading to pain during movement. Conditions such as tenosynovitis can occur, which is the inflammation of the sheath surrounding a tendon.

5. Nerve Compression: Sometimes, nerve compression can occur in the wrist, leading to pain, tingling, or weakness. This is often seen in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve is compressed.

Given your symptoms, it is crucial to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably an orthopedic specialist or a hand surgeon. They may recommend imaging studies such as X-rays or an MRI to assess the condition of the ligaments, tendons, and joints in your wrist.
In terms of treatment options, they may include:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help you with exercises to strengthen the wrist and improve flexibility, which may alleviate some of the pain.

- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.

- Bracing or Splinting: Wearing a brace or splint can provide support to the wrist and help prevent movements that exacerbate pain.

- Corticosteroid Injections: If inflammation is significant, corticosteroid injections may provide relief.

- Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered to repair any damaged ligaments or to address other underlying issues.

In conclusion, the pain you are experiencing in your wrist could be due to a variety of factors related to your previous injury and surgery. It is essential to consult with a medical professional who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and help you regain function in your wrist.

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