Wrist Pain: Misalignment and Treatment Options - Orthopedics

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Wrist pain can be a complex issue, often stemming from various causes such as tendonitis, ligament injuries, or misalignment. Based on your description, it seems that you have been dealing with wrist pain for quite some time, initially diagnosed as tendonitis, and later suggested to be due to misalignment by a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.

Understanding the Condition
1. Tendonitis: This is an inflammation of the tendons around the wrist, often caused by repetitive motions or overuse. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist. If conservative treatments like rest, ice, and physical therapy did not yield results, it may indicate that the underlying issue is more complex.

2. Misalignment: The suggestion of misalignment points towards a potential issue with the bones in the wrist not being in their proper position. This can lead to abnormal stress on the surrounding ligaments and tendons, causing pain and dysfunction. If the misalignment has been present for an extended period, it can indeed lead to laxity in the ligaments, making them less effective at stabilizing the joint.

3. Ligament Recovery: Ligaments can take a significant amount of time to heal, often several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment approach. If ligaments are overstretched or torn, they may not return to their original strength without proper rehabilitation.


Treatment Options
Given the persistent nature of your symptoms, here are several treatment options you might consider:
1. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the wrist and improve stability. They can also use modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to reduce pain and inflammation.

2. Orthotic Devices: A wrist brace or splint can help stabilize the wrist and prevent further misalignment during the healing process. This can be particularly useful if you are engaging in activities that exacerbate the pain.

3. Corticosteroid Injections: If inflammation is significant, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the affected area. This should be discussed with your healthcare provider, as repeated injections can have side effects.

4. Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail, and there is significant structural damage or misalignment, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve realigning the bones, repairing ligaments, or addressing any underlying issues.

5. Alternative Therapies: Since you have already explored traditional Chinese medicine, you might also consider acupuncture or other alternative therapies that can help manage pain and promote healing.

6. Activity Modification: It’s crucial to modify activities that exacerbate your wrist pain. Avoiding repetitive motions and using ergonomic tools can help reduce strain on your wrist.


Conclusion
It’s essential to have a comprehensive evaluation by an orthopedic specialist who can assess the current state of your wrist through imaging studies like MRI or CT scans, which can provide more insight into any structural issues. They can also help you understand the extent of any ligament damage and guide you on the best course of treatment.
Recovery from wrist pain, especially when associated with misalignment and ligament laxity, can be a gradual process. Patience and adherence to a structured rehabilitation program are key to regaining function and minimizing the risk of re-injury. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.