Wrist pain when bending it can be caused by several common conditions including wrist sprain, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, osteoarthritis, ganglion cysts, or fractures. These issues affect the bones, ligaments, tendons, or nerves in the wrist and cause pain, stiffness, swelling, or limited motion that worsens with bending or putting pressure on the wrist.
Common Causes of Wrist Pain When Bending
- Wrist Sprain: Ligament overstretching or tearing from falls or impacts causes pain when the wrist moves.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of wrist tendons due to repetitive motions or injury leads to pain and stiffness.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve inside the wrist causes pain, numbness, and tingling which worsen with bending.
- Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of cartilage in the wrist joint causes bones to rub together, resulting in pain during movement.
- Ganglion Cyst: Fluid-filled lumps near wrist joints can press on nerves or tendons causing pain.
- Fractures: Broken wrist bones cause sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty bending the wrist.
Additional Factors
- Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions might also cause wrist pain.
- Overuse and repetitive stress injuries are common contributors.
- Symptoms often include tenderness, swelling, limited range of motion, numbness, or tingling depending on the cause.
If the wrist pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by swelling, deformity, or loss of function, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation for diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent worsening or permanent damage.
