Wrist PainSymptoms & Treatment
What drives wrist pain and how physiotherapy restores function with mobility, strengthening and activity planning.
What is wrist pain?
Pain can arise from tendons, ligaments, joints or nerves. Repetitive tasks, falls and ergonomics are common drivers. Most cases improve with education, activity modification and targeted exercise.
Scans are rarely needed early unless there is significant trauma, deformity or red‑flag features. Your physiotherapist will advise.
Common causes
Repetitive strain
Typing, manual work, racquet and weight‑bearing sports.
Sprain/trauma
Falls or sudden force into extension/flexion.
Tendinopathy
Overload of wrist/forearm tendons with training spikes.
Nerve irritation
Median/ulnar nerve symptoms with posture/pressure.
Common symptoms
- Aching or sharp wrist pain with gripping/weight‑bearing
- Stiffness, swelling or clicking
- Occasional numbness/tingling with nerve involvement
Related symptoms: Hand pain, Reduced range of motion
How a physiotherapist can help
- Education on pain, pacing and ergonomics
- Mobility, tendon loading and graded strengthening
- Activity modification and return‑to‑task planning
Effective treatments
Exercise therapy
- Progressive tendon loading and grip strength
- Movement confidence for tasks and sport
Manual therapy (short‑term)
- Pain‑modulating techniques to support loading
- Soft tissue techniques as indicated
At‑home management
Mobility
- Gentle flexion/extension and rotation (2–3 x daily)
- Nerve glides if advised by your clinician
Strength
- Isometrics → isotonic grip progressions
- Forearm/wrist curls (3 x 8–12)
Habits
- Ergonomic setup and regular breaks
- Gradual return to weight‑bearing tasks
Increase gradually if next‑day symptoms are acceptable. Reduce reps/sets during flares.
What to expect in physiotherapy
1) Assessment
- History, red‑flag screen, movement/strength checks
- Agree goals (work, sport, hobbies)
2) Plan
- Education, ergonomics and starter exercises
- Task modification and symptom planning
3) Progress
- Advance loading and function weekly‑biweekly
- Criteria‑based return to full duties/sport
Many improve in 2–12 weeks; persistent cases may need longer with staged loading.
FAQs
Do I need an X‑ray?
Only after significant trauma or if deformity is suspected. Your clinician will advise.
Can I keep using my wrist?
Maintain light activity as tolerated. Gradually build loading under guidance.
When to seek urgent help?
Severe trauma, deformity, fever/unwell or progressive numbness/weakness—seek urgent assessment.
Related symptoms and possible conditions
Related symptoms
Possible conditions
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.