Differential Diagnosis for Anterior Wrist Pain and Pain with Wrist Flexing
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ganglion cyst: This is a common cause of anterior wrist pain, especially when it occurs on the volar aspect of the wrist. Pain with wrist flexing can be exacerbated by the cyst's presence.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: Although it typically presents with numbness and tingling, carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause anterior wrist pain, especially with flexion.
- Wrist tendinitis (e.g., flexor carpi radialis or flexor carpi ulnaris): Inflammation of the tendons on the volar aspect of the wrist can cause pain with wrist flexion.
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury: Although more commonly associated with ulnar-sided wrist pain, TFCC injuries can sometimes cause anterior wrist pain, especially with rotational movements.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infection (e.g., septic arthritis or osteomyelitis): Although less common, infections in the wrist can cause severe pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term damage.
- Fracture (e.g., scaphoid or distal radius): Fractures can cause anterior wrist pain, especially with movement. Missing a fracture can lead to complications like nonunion or malunion.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Kienböck's disease (avascular necrosis of the lunate): A rare condition that can cause anterior wrist pain, especially with flexion.
- Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath: A rare, benign tumor that can cause anterior wrist pain and swelling.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Although not typically presenting with isolated anterior wrist pain, rheumatoid arthritis can cause wrist pain and stiffness, including with flexion.