Preventing Overuse Injuries of the Hand, Wrist or Elbow

Overuse injuries are one of the most common causes of pain and discomfort in the hand, wrist, and elbow. This is primarily due to the repetitive motion related to sports, work, or even some hobbies.

According to Dr. Edward Jernigan, a Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic hand, wrist, and elbow specialist, repetitive motions such as typing at a computer all day or repeatedly swinging a tennis racket can have some serious consequences.

“Irritation of tendons is a common cause of disability in the upper extremity,” said Dr. Jernigan. “The discomfort can be secondary to mechanical stenosis or entrapment, or can be secondary to other medical comorbidities, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Occasionally, infections can also lead to tendon-related pain and discomfort.”

Most Common Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Overuse Injuries (Repetitive Strain Injuries)

Elbow Overuse Injuries

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Baseball injuries (distal biceps tendon injuries)

Wrist Overuse Injuries

• De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Hand Pain from Overuse

• Trigger finger / trigger thumb
• Ganglion cyst

Preventing Overuse Injuries to the Hand, Wrist, and Elbow

“Symptoms from tendonitis can be very mild and transient,” said Dr. Jernigan. “However occasionally tendonitis can lead to debilitating symptoms. First steps in treatment generally involved activity modification, bracing, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (aka NSAIDs, if not medically contraindicated), and use of ice or heat.”

Usually, overuse injuries will heal on their own, however, if symptoms persist or worsen, make an appointment with a hand surgeon to come up with a comprehensive treatment plan.

Schedule an Appointment for Comprehensive Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Care in Wake County

Your well-being is important to us. Click the button below or call us to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our Raleigh Orthopaedic Urgent Care locations for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to see one of our physical therapists.