1. Causes
Wrist and hand pain can be caused by repetitive motion, inflammation of tendons, nerve compression, or degenerative joint disease. These regions are prone to overuse injuries, particularly among people who perform fine motor tasks, typing, or physical labor. In TCM, pain in the wrist and hand often relates to Qi and blood stagnation, invasion of wind-cold-damp, or blockage in the meridians that pass through the upper limb.
2. Underlying Factors
– Carpal tunnel syndrome: compression of the median nerve
– De Quervain’s tenosynovitis: tendon inflammation in the wrist
– Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in small hand joints
– Repetitive strain from computer use or manual labor
– Previous injuries such as wrist sprains or fractures
– Cold exposure or prolonged static hand positions
3. Symptoms
– Pain, stiffness, or swelling in the wrist, fingers, or palm
– Tingling or numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers (carpal tunnel)
– Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects
– Pain aggravated by repetitive hand movements
– Clicking or popping sensations in finger joints
– Night-time hand discomfort or morning stiffness
4. Treatment Options
– Physiotherapy: Hand strengthening, ergonomic correction, and stretching
– Acupuncture: Stimulates nerve repair, improves blood flow, and relieves inflammation
– Manual therapy: Focused on joint mobilization and tendon release
– scraping: Applied to forearm and wrist to relieve tension and stagnation
5. At-Home Tips
– Use ergonomic tools and adjust workstation to reduce wrist strain
– Rest hands regularly during prolonged typing or gripping
– Apply warm compresses for stiffness or cold compresses for swelling
– Perform hand stretches and wrist circles gently
– Wear wrist supports during sleep if experiencing carpal tunnel symptoms
– Recommended products: wrist braces, herbal patches, heat patches
