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, tendonitis pain is usually more localized, occurring at the site of 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, refers to nerve compression in the neck. This condition affects the nerves extending to the arm and hand, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness that can mimic CTS. However, cervical radiculopathy often includes neck pain or stiffness and 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 physician for an accurate diagnosis. A thorough medical history, examination, and possibly tests like X-rays or nerve conduction studies are necessary to identify the true cause of the pain. While CTS is a common suspect, a proper evaluation can reveal the actual issue and ensure appropriate treatment.
