Differential Diagnosis for Wrist Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) or Overuse Syndrome: This is often the most common cause of wrist pain, especially in individuals who perform repetitive tasks such as typing, using a computer mouse, or engaging in sports that involve wrist movement. The pain is usually due to inflammation of the tendons or strain on the wrist.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist.
- Ganglion Cyst: A noncancerous lump that forms on the wrist, often attached to a tendon or joint. It can cause pain, especially if it presses on a nerve.
- Wrist Sprain: An injury to the ligaments in the wrist, which can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the wrist, which can be caused by overuse or repetitive strain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture: A broken bone in the wrist, which can be caused by a fall or direct blow. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to avoid complications.
- Infection (e.g., Cellulitis or Abscess): Bacterial infections that can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness in the wrist. Prompt antibiotic treatment is necessary.
- Gout or Pseudogout: Forms of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and swelling in the wrist.
- Osteonecrosis (Avascular Necrosis): A condition where the blood supply to the bone is interrupted, leading to bone death. It can cause severe wrist pain and requires early diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kienbock's Disease: A rare condition where the blood supply to one of the bones in the wrist (the lunate) is interrupted, leading to bone death.
- Madelung's Deformity: A rare congenital condition that affects the growth of the bones in the forearm, leading to a misshapen wrist and potential pain.
- Giant Cell Tumor of the Tendon Sheath: A rare, benign tumor that can cause pain and swelling in the wrist.
- Sarcoidosis: A rare disease that can cause inflammation and pain in various parts of the body, including the wrist.