Ulnar Wrist Pain – Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Doctors usually start identifying ulnar-sided wrist pain with a thorough physical exam. During this exam, the doctor checks wrist motion, observes for any swelling, tests grip strength, and looks for areas of tenderness or abnormal movement.

The doctor might ask the patient to move the wrist in different directions or squeeze the doctor’s fingers to help isolate the painful area.

If the doctor needs more information, several imaging tests can help:

Test	Use
X-ray	Finds bone injuries or arthritis in the wrist joint
Computed Tomography (CT)	Detects fractures not visible on x-rays
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)	Reveals issues in ligaments, TFCC, and soft tissue
Ultrasound	Checks tendons, ligaments, and cysts

Doctors also note other findings, like numbness from ulnar nerve involvement or signs of inflammation such as swelling and warmth. They look for specific injuries like scaphoid fractures, tendinopathy, or ganglion cysts.

These tests help spot conditions such as synovitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or rare causes like avascular necrosis. Each tool offers unique strengths and can give a clearer picture of what might be causing ongoing wrist pain.

Treatment

Medications

Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can relieve discomfort and swelling.

If these do not work well enough, doctors might suggest stronger prescription drugs. Some people also use anti-inflammatory medications to manage ongoing pain.

Exercise-Based Therapy

Physical therapists show patients how to do safe wrist exercises and build up strength. Therapists also teach new ways to use the wrist that put less strain on it.

At times, the therapist may place the wrist in a splint, brace, or cast to keep it still and promote healing.

Surgical Solutions

When other treatments do not work, surgeons may recommend surgery. Surgeons often use minimally invasive techniques, which lead to faster recovery and less pain after the procedure.

They may perform options like osteotomy or repairs to certain tissues, and patients typically have a shorter hospital stay. After surgery, patients follow instructions and sometimes keep the wrist immobilized.

Getting Ready for Your Visit

Steps to Take Before Your Appointment

• Check if you need to do anything in advance. Call and ask about instructions, such as avoiding food or certain medicines.
• Make a list of symptoms. Include all your symptoms, even if they don’t seem connected to your wrist pain.
• Write down important information.
  • Any big stresses or changes in your life?
  • Family history of health issues.
• Bring a record of all medicine and supplements. List their names and doses.
• Prepare questions to ask.
  • What could be causing these symptoms?
  • Could there be other reasons for these symptoms?
  • Are any tests needed?
  • Will this problem last, or can it go away?
  • What treatments are best?
  • Should any activities be avoided?
  • Is a specialist needed?
  • Are there printed information or trusted websites recommended?
• Consider bringing someone with you, like a family member or friend, to help remember what the doctor says.

Questions You Might Hear From the Doctor

Doctors usually ask questions such as:

Doctor’s Question	What To Think About
When did your symptoms start?	Try to remember the first day you noticed pain.
Are your symptoms steady or do they come and go?	Make note of any patterns.
How bad is the pain or discomfort?	Try to rate it on a scale of 1 to 10.
What makes it feel better?	Notice what helps, like rest or ice.
What makes it feel worse?	Watch for movements or activities that increase pain.

Things to Do While Waiting for Your Appointment

• Avoid actions that make the pain worse. Pay attention to activities or movements that increase symptoms and try not to do them.
• Rest your wrist when you can.
• Note any changes in your symptoms and add this information to your notes for the appointment.