Wrist and hand pain doesn't mean you stop lifting or training. Our fellowship-trained Doctors of PT diagnose the root cause — carpal tunnel, De Quervain's, or thumb arthritis — and build a plan to get you back to full activity.
Common Diagnoses
Wrist and hand pain isn't just one thing. Click each section below to learn about the three most common causes we see in athletes and manual workers — and what to do about each one.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist. It's the most common nerve compression syndrome in the upper extremity and causes numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed due to swelling or pressure in the carpal tunnel. Contributing factors include:
We use nerve gliding exercises to improve median nerve mobility and reduce compression. We also address wrist positioning, workstation ergonomics, and nighttime bracing to minimize nerve irritation. Most cases respond well to conservative care, though severe cases may require surgical consultation.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is inflammation or irritation of the tendons that control thumb movement where they pass through a tight tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist. It's common in new parents (from lifting babies), climbers, and athletes who perform repetitive gripping.
De Quervain's develops when the thumb tendons are repeatedly loaded beyond capacity. Common causes include:
We use progressive loading (eccentric thumb exercises) to build tendon capacity while modifying aggravating activities. Temporary thumb bracing can reduce irritation during acute flare-ups. We also address lifting mechanics and wrist positioning to prevent recurrence. Most cases resolve without surgery.
Thumb joint arthritis is wear-and-tear at the base of the thumb — the small joint where your thumb meets your wrist. It's one of the most common sites of arthritis in the hand and typically affects people over 40, especially women.
CMC arthritis develops when the cartilage at the base of the thumb wears down over time. Contributing factors include:
While arthritis is degenerative, symptoms can be managed effectively with conservative care. We use joint mobilization, strengthening of surrounding muscles, and activity modification to reduce pain and improve function. Thumb bracing can provide relief during flare-ups. Surgery (joint fusion or replacement) is reserved for severe cases that don't respond to PT.
Evidence-Based Resources
Wrist pain doesn't mean you stop training. A Doctor of PT breaks down the root causes and gives you 3 evidence-backed exercises to keep lifting.
Numbness and tingling in your hands doesn't always mean surgery. Here's how to manage carpal tunnel symptoms and continue training intelligently.
Book a free 15-minute phone call with a Doctor of PT. We'll figure out what's going on and build a plan to get you back to training.