Ulnar Wrist Pain Differential Diagnosis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ulnar Impaction Syndrome: This condition is characterized by chronic pain on the ulnar side of the wrist due to the impaction of the ulna against the radius and lunate bone, often seen in individuals with ulnar positive variance. It's a common cause of ulnar wrist pain, especially in young adults.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Injury: The TFCC is a ligamentous structure that supports the wrist and forearm. Injuries to this complex can cause ulnar-sided wrist pain, especially with rotational movements.
- Ulnar Styloid Fracture: A fracture of the ulnar styloid process can cause pain on the ulnar side of the wrist. This might occur from a fall onto an outstretched hand.
- Extensor Carpi Ulnaris (ECU) Tendinitis: Inflammation of the ECU tendon, which runs along the ulnar side of the wrist, can cause pain and weakness in wrist extension and rotation.
- Pisotriquetral Joint Disorders: Disorders of the pisotriquetral joint, including arthritis or instability, can cause ulnar-sided wrist pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ganglion Cyst: Although often benign, a ganglion cyst on the ulnar side of the wrist can cause significant pain and should be considered due to its potential to cause nerve compression or other complications if not addressed.
- Infection (e.g., Septic Arthritis): Infections in the wrist joint can present with pain, swelling, and redness. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.
- Tumor (e.g., Giant Cell Tumor of Tendon Sheath): Although rare, tumors can cause chronic pain and should be considered to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kienböck's Disease: A rare condition characterized by the collapse of the lunate bone due to avascular necrosis, which can cause wrist pain, including on the ulnar side.
- Madelung's Deformity: A rare congenital condition affecting the distal radius and ulna, leading to abnormal growth and potential for ulnar-sided wrist pain.
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the Wrist: Compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the wrist can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the ulnar distribution of the hand.