Do you experience pain on the back of your wrist during activities like yoga, pushups, or simply pushing yourself out of a chair? You’re not alone. This kind of discomfort, especially when the wrist is bent backward, is a common reason patients visit our clinic. While several conditions can cause this pain, one lesser-known but frequent culprit is dorsal wrist impingement syndrome. In the post below, Dr. Joseph Schreiber explains what this condition is, how it’s diagnosed, and what treatment options are available to help restore comfort and function.
Written by Dr. Joseph Schreiber, Hand and Wrist Specialist
It’s not uncommon that I see a patient who complains of pain along the back side of the wrist, which is worse (and usually only present) when the wrist is fully extended (or bent backwards). These individuals feel a pinching discomfort in the wrist while doing activities such as yoga, pushups, or simply lifting themselves from a chair. There are several conditions that can cause this pain, such as a small (occult) ganglion cyst, tendinitis, ligament injuries, or something called dorsal wrist impingement syndrome. In dorsal wrist impingement syndrome, the capsule (joint lining) becomes thickened and gets pinched in the back of the joint when the wrist is extended. Specifically, the capsule is pinched between the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon and the scaphoid bone. When examined, these patients will have pain when the back of the wrist is palpated, and pain when the wrist is maximally extended. X-rays are usually obtained to rule out other injuries to ligaments or bones within the wrist. Some patients will improve with rest, activity modification, splints, or anti-inflammatories. In recalcitrant cases, an MRI is useful to gain more information. However, while an MRI may show a ganglion, tendinitis or ligament tear, patients with dorsal wrist impingement syndrome typically have a normal MRI. This is because the condition is “dynamic”, and the tissue is only pinched during activities, such as the “push-up” position. If other treatment options fail, patients may benefit from wrist arthroscopy and removal of the redundant capsular tissue. In the March 2017 issue of the Journal of Hand Surgery, researchers showed that wrist arthroscopy can successfully remove this thickened capsule tissue, and was both a safe and effective procedure for improving pain and function.
Expert Hand and Wrist Care at Raleigh Orthopaedic
If you’re experiencing finger stiffness, pain, or locking that may be caused by trigger finger, the fellowship-trained hand and wrist specialists at Raleigh Orthopaedic are here to help. Our team offers both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to your specific needs, and we work closely with in-house physical and occupational therapists to ensure a smooth recovery.
Whether your symptoms are new or have been progressing over time, early evaluation is key. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward relief and restored function.
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If you’re dealing with pain, discomfort, or an injury, don’t wait to get the care you need. Our expert team at Raleigh Orthopaedic is here to help you feel better, move better, and get back to doing what you love. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 919-781-5600 to be seen—often within 48 hours. For immediate care, we offer walk-in orthopedic urgent care services. Click here for hours and locations.
Disclaimer: The information on this site is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical judgment. Always consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have about a medical condition or treatment.