Hand and wrist pain is often mistakenly attributed solely to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), but there are other potential causes. One common misdiagnosis is ESS, which can lead to improper treatment. Let’s explore these conditions further.
Chronic low-grade inflammation can contribute to certain cancers and heart diseases. Tendonitis, a familiar issue in the wrist and hand, occurs when tendons become inflamed. These tendons connect muscles to bones and can be either the flexor tendons, which bend the fingers, or the extensor tendons, which straighten them.
Tendonitis shares symptoms with CTS, such as pain, tenderness, and weakness, especially during repetitive wrist and hand movements. However, the pain from tendonitis is usually more localized to the inflamed tendon. For example, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis affects the tendons at the base of the thumb, causing pain on the thumb side of the wrist. In contrast, CTS typically causes pain and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
The timing of symptoms can also differ. CTS often causes numbness and tingling at night, disrupting sleep, while tendonitis pain can persist throughout the day and night.
Cervical radiculopathy, despite its complex name, involves compressed nerves in the neck that affect the arm and hand. This condition can mimic CTS by causing hand pain, numbness, and weakness, but it also includes neck pain or stiffness and sometimes weakness in the arm or shoulder, which are not typical of CTS.
When hand or wrist pain interferes with daily life, it’s crucial to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. They will review your medical history, conduct an examination, and possibly perform tests like X-rays or nerve conduction studies. This thorough evaluation ensures you receive the correct treatment for your specific condition. While CTS is often suspected, a proper assessment can identify the true cause of your hand pain.
