Hand and wrist pain is often mistakenly attributed solely to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), but there are other potential causes. One such condition is ESS, which is frequently misdiagnosed as CTS, leading to improper treatment. Let’s explore these conditions further.
Chronic low-grade inflammation can lead to serious health issues like certain cancers and heart diseases. Tendonitis is a common problem in the wrist and hand, occurring when tendons, which connect muscles to bones, become inflamed. This can affect 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, a type of tendonitis, causes pain at the base of the thumb, affecting 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, which can cause pain, numbness, and weakness extending from the neck down the arm to the hand. This condition can mimic CTS symptoms but 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 order 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.
