Forearm, Wrist, and Hand Pain

Arthritis refers to inflammation of a joint and/or joint pain. There are many different types of arthritis and, over time, the symptoms may become more and more severe, leading to loss of range of motion and/or inability of the joint to support weight.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) describes a common nerve entrapment at the wrist involving the median nerve that may cause pain, numbness, and even weakness in the hand and wrist. Also the pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome may radiate down to the fingers or even up into the forearm. The carpal tunnel describes a ‘tunnel’ or conduit created by the bones of the wrist and the flexor retinaculum (overlying sheath) by which tendons and nerves, etc. pass thus limiting their space.

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), also known as causalgia or reflex sympathetic dystrophy, is a chronic, evolving, painful and progressive condition that affects the distal extremities often following a traumatic injury.

Degenerative joint disease, also known as osteoarthritis, is a prevalent and chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is the most common form of arthritis and occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints gradually breaks down. This leads to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Joints are ubiquitous in the human body as they are involved in movement of the spine and extremity. Joints play a crucial role in the kinematics of the human body as they are involved with movement and also help in unloading sheer pressure and weight of the body.

Neuropathy is damage to a nerve. Depending on which nerve or nerves are affected, neuropathy can have very different symptoms. Sensory neuropathy may present as numbness, tingling, burning, stabbing, or electrical pain. Motor neuropathy usually presents with weakness, muscle cramping, muscle atrophy, or fasciculations.