The wrist appears swollen after the injury?
Hello, six months ago I injured my wrist and after receiving acupuncture from traditional Chinese medicine, the condition worsened.
I then delayed for a month before seeing an orthopedic specialist twice.
During the second visit, an injection was administered directly to the affected area.
Currently, there is no numbness, but I am unable to lift heavy objects for extended periods as I used to, and there are still some bumps in the affected area.
I would like to know what these bumps are and if there is a way to return to the original flat appearance.
Thank you.
af, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/09
Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
First, it is important to determine whether the joint injury involves damage to the bone or if it is solely a ligament injury.
If there is swelling or inflammation in the affected area, it is advisable to consult a physician.
Rehabilitation therapy may be necessary.
Reply Date: 2016/03/09
More Info
Hello! It sounds like you've been dealing with a challenging situation regarding your wrist injury. Based on your description, the "bumps" or protrusions on your wrist could be due to several factors related to your injury and subsequent treatments.
When you sustain an injury to the wrist, especially if it involves soft tissue damage, inflammation can occur. This inflammation may lead to the formation of scar tissue, which can create a bump or thickening in the area. Additionally, if there was any swelling or hematoma (a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels) during the healing process, this could also contribute to the irregular contour of the wrist.
Another possibility is that the bumps could be ganglion cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the wrist joint or tendon. These cysts are often benign and can arise after an injury, especially if there has been repetitive stress or trauma to the area. They can vary in size and may cause discomfort or restrict movement, but they are generally not harmful.
In terms of treatment, if the bumps are indeed due to scar tissue, physical therapy may be beneficial. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that promote flexibility and strength in the wrist, which may help reduce the prominence of the bumps over time. Techniques such as massage, ultrasound therapy, or even modalities like heat and cold therapy can also be helpful in managing symptoms and improving function.
If the bumps are ganglion cysts and they are causing significant discomfort or limiting your ability to perform daily activities, you might consider discussing options with your orthopedic specialist. In some cases, ganglion cysts can be aspirated (drained) or surgically removed if they are persistent or bothersome.
As for your concern about returning to the original appearance of your wrist, it largely depends on the underlying cause of the bumps. If they are due to scar tissue, while complete resolution may not be possible, physical therapy and time can lead to significant improvement. If they are ganglion cysts, treatment options may help reduce or eliminate them.
It's essential to continue following up with your healthcare provider, especially since you mentioned that your wrist is still not functioning as it used to. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend the most appropriate course of action based on your specific situation.
In summary, the bumps on your wrist could be due to scar tissue or ganglion cysts resulting from your injury. Treatment options include physical therapy, monitoring, and possibly surgical intervention if necessary. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will be crucial in managing your condition and improving your wrist function.
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