Understanding Hand & Wrist Problems: Common Causes and Symptoms Insights from Dr. Kashyap Solanki – Orthopaedic Surgeon, Andheri East, Mumbai
Updated: Oct 9
Most hand and wrist pain comes from overuse, nerve compression, tendon inflammation, arthritis or an injury. Where the pain sits and what makes it worse usually points to the cause. Pain that lasts more than two to three weeks, or comes with numbness or weakness, should be checked.
Common Causes at a Glance
Carpal tunnel syndrome: tingling or numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers, often worse at night.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis: pain on the thumb side of the wrist when lifting a baby, gripping or texting.
Trigger finger: a finger that catches or locks when bending.
Ganglion cyst: a smooth lump on the back or front of the wrist that may change size.
Osteoarthritis: stiffness and aching at the base of the thumb or finger joints, worse with pinching.
Rheumatoid arthritis: swelling of the knuckles and wrists in both hands, with morning stiffness over 30 minutes.
Fracture or sprain: swelling and bruising after a fall or blow.
Tendon injury (such as mallet finger): a finger that cannot straighten fully.
Symptoms That Need Prompt Review
Numbness or tingling that does not go away
Weakness, dropping objects or wasting at the base of the thumb
A finger that cannot be straightened or bent
Swelling, redness and warmth, especially with fever
Pain after a fall that does not settle within a few days
How It Is Diagnosed
An orthopaedic surgeon examines the hand and wrist and may order X-rays, an ultrasound, an MRI, or nerve conduction tests for suspected nerve compression. Blood tests help when inflammatory arthritis is possible.
Treatment Options
Rest and activity changes: adjusting how you type, grip or lift.
Splints: a night splint for carpal tunnel, a thumb splint for De Quervain's.
Medication: short courses of anti-inflammatory medicines, as advised.
Physiotherapy: stretching, strengthening and nerve-gliding exercises.
Injections: a steroid injection can settle tendon inflammation or trigger finger.
Surgery: for persistent nerve compression, locked fingers, unstable fractures or cysts that keep returning. Many are day-care procedures.
Prevention Tips for Desk and Phone Users
Keep wrists straight on the keyboard and mouse.
Take short breaks every 30 to 45 minutes.
Avoid long spells of one-handed phone use.
Strengthen grip and forearm muscles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wrist pain from typing serious? Usually not, but persistent tingling may mean carpal tunnel syndrome, which is easier to treat early.
Do I need surgery for carpal tunnel? Most mild cases improve with a splint and activity changes. Surgery helps when symptoms persist or muscles weaken.
Book a hand and wrist assessment with Dr Kashyap Solanki at Amardeep Nursing Home, Andheri East, Mumbai. Call or WhatsApp +91 8108171796.
About Dr. Kashyap Solanki
Orthopaedic Surgeon – Andheri, Mumbai.
Dr. Kashyap Solanki specializes in hip and knee replacement, robotic-assisted knee surgery, and joint preservation procedures like HTO, arthroscopy, and ligament reconstruction. He is also known for performing complex revision joint replacements and managing challenging upper and lower limb fractures. With a focus on precision and patient-centered care, Dr. Solanki helps restore mobility and improve quality of life through advanced orthopaedic solutions.
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