When your body is suffering, one way of expressing it is pain. There can be various reasons behind pain. However, if the condition persists for longer or becomes unbearable, you must seek a doctor’s consultation. The best idea is to connect with a pain specialist. One of the common pain complaints is that of the elbow, wrist, and hand. If you are also looking for elbow wrist pain treatment in Indianapolis, this blog is the right answer to your query. Here we will aim to discuss all about chronic pain in the wrist and elbow and where you can get the right treatment for the same.
Read on to learn about the causes and symptoms of chronic elbow and wrist pain and solutions for the same.
What is termed chronic pain?
Physical pain is a common problem. Everyone suffers some or the other kind of pain in their life. However, if the situation worsens, becomes persistent, or keeps coming back, it may be chronic pain. Usually, pain that lasts over 3 months or longer is called chronic pain. To learn more and get the right diagnosis done, you must consult a pain specialist.
What causes chronic elbow & wrist pain?
Pain in the elbow or wrist may occur due to multiple reasons. Below is a list of some of the common causes of these pain points:
- Overuse of elbow
If you are someone who does a lot of tasks by hand, you may expect wrist or elbow pain. Due to consistent twisting, bending, and grasping from hands and elbow, the muscles may suffer inflammation and thus, cause pain. The pain may also radiate and affect the ring or little finger.
This condition is also known as Golfer’s elbow. However, it is not compulsory to sustain a golfer’s elbow only due to hammering, playing golf, or working out. There can be plenty of other reasons like working for long hours in the garden.
- Due to falling
Accidents and fallouts can cause twisting of muscles or nerves. This, in turn, causes extreme pain. In such a condition, do not avoid seeking doctor’s attention. The pain may elevate and cause serious nerve damage gradually or turn into chronic pain that may become difficult to manage. If you are looking for orthopedic specialists in Indianapolis, INPC can be the right choice for you.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
When people make repetitive use of their fingers or hands, it may put pressure on the median nerve. This in turn, may cause inflammation and pain. Sometimes, it may turn also cause numbness or tingling sensation in the hand, elbow, or wrist. The condition can be quite discomforting. However, medical attention at the right time can help manage symptoms and get rid of the pain.
- Arthritis
Arthritis can be another common reason that may cause chronic and severe pain in the wrist, hand, or elbow. Osteoarthritis is common while one may also suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. In osteoarthritis, the joint suffers due to wear and tear and loses cartilage that causes inflammation, burning sensation, and pain.
On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the cartilage degenerates and thus causes pain and inflammation. A thorough check-up and diagnosis can help understand if you are suffering from arthritis.
- Other medical condition
There are various underlying medical conditions that can cause chronic wrist or elbow pain. It may include ganglion cysts, trigger finger, mallet finger, ulnar wrist pain, tennis elbow, biceps tendonitis, etc. Doctors may suggest physical therapy for elbow pain or surgical treatment, as per the condition of the patient.
Solutions for Chronic wrist and elbow pain
Persistent pain, especially in the wrist, elbow, or hands can cause extreme discomfort. Not only does it hurts but it also hinders your daily activities. All these in turn may also impact your mood and mental health. So, make sure to consult a pain specialist like those at Indiana Neurology and Pain Center to get long-term relief from pain.
Common solutions that doctors may suggest for chronic wrist or hand pain include:
- Medication
After assessing your condition, the doctor may recommend certain pain medications. It helps in managing the unbearable pain. Additionally, you must take sufficient rest to let your wrist and elbow recover.
- Physical therapy
Physiotherapy is a great solution for various types of pain. Depending on your condition, the doctor may recommend regular physical therapy for a certain number of weeks. It can gradually bring your wrist back to its normal condition. At INPC, we have an expert team who can provide you with physical therapy for elbow pain.
- Surgery
In extreme conditions of wrist or elbow nerve damage, surgery may be the last option. So, in such conditions, patients have to undergo surgery and rest for a few months before the wrist comes back to the normal state.
At-home tips for wrist and elbow pain
By the time you see a doctor or in case of minor pain in the wrist or elbow, you may follow certain tips at home. However, note that not everyone may benefit from these home remedies and may require medical attention.
- Ice and heat pack
You may use an ice pack or heat pressure in the area where you are experiencing inflammation or pain. Ice packs are especially helpful in the early stages of pain.
- OTC pain medicines
You may take ibuprofen or acetaminophen if experiencing extreme pain in the wrist or elbow. These are over-the-counter medicines. Make sure to not take medicines on your own that require a doctor’s prescription.
- Rest
Do not pressurize your wrist or elbow any further. Your body is capable of healing various conditions but you need to support it. So, take ample rest and let your hand recover. If the conditions elevate, make sure to visit your doctor without any delay.
Conclusion
The wrist and elbow are some of the most body parts that you use the most. So, unlike any other body part, the health of your wrist, elbow, and hand in general is important. If you are experiencing pain that is persistent or makes you extremely comfortable, do not delay medical attention. Connect with your nearest pain specialist for the right treatment. At Indiana Neurology and Pain Center, we have the right team of experts that you may be looking for. We conduct an in-depth diagnosis of your condition. Based on the reports, our doctor may recommend manual therapy for the elbow and wrist. In serious conditions, doctors may suggest surgery.
To learn more about our services or book your appointment, you may visit our clinic or contact us at 317-939-6100. We are situated at two locations; Shadeland Ave Clinic and Shore Drive Clinic.