Many people mistakenly believe that the wrist is simply part of the hand until they experience pain and realize that the two are separate structures. The wrist connects your forearm to your hand, and together they rely on a complex network of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels — all working seamlessly to allow your hand to move, grip, and feel. This close connection is why discomfort can often feel like it’s affecting both the hand and wrist.
It’s also why distinguishing between the two can be tricky. Pain can arise from similar causes, whether from overuse or repetitive movements in work, hobbies, or sports, or from the natural wear and tear that comes with age. Whatever the source, whether the pain is coming from your hand, your wrist, or both, it can make daily life frustrating and uncomfortable.
At Fremont Hand Therapy, we’ve helped countless patients in the Fremont area manage—and in many cases, even eliminate—their pain. We’re confident we can help you achieve the same results. Let’s explore how to tell whether you’re dealing with hand pain, wrist pain, or both.
Hand vs. Wrist Pain: How to Tell the Difference
- Area Affected: Hand pain is typically felt in the fingers, knuckles, palm, or back of the hand, whereas wrist pain is centered in the joint that connects the hand to the forearm.
- Symptoms: Because the wrist plays a key role in hand movement, pain can range from dull or aching to more intense discomfort, especially during movement or when bearing weight. In contrast, hand pain is usually more localized to the fingers, knuckles, or palm and may include throbbing, tingling, or a persistent ache.
- Common Causes: Wrist pain typically arises from issues affecting the wrist joint itself, such as sprains or strains, ganglion cysts, and fractures. Hand pain, on the other hand, usually originates in the finger or hand joints, tendons, or nerves and can result from arthritis, trigger finger, nerve compression, or Dupuytren’s contracture.
As you can see, there aren’t many clear distinctions between hand and wrist pain. Identifying the exact source can be challenging because their symptoms often overlap, which may lead to misdiagnosis, incorrect treatment, and a longer recovery period. Additionally, some conditions, such as arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome, can affect both the hand and wrist at the same time.
Effective Hand and Wrist Pain Treatment in Fremont at Fremont Hand Therapy
Understanding the source of your pain is the first step toward relief. In many cases, depending on the underlying condition, both hand and wrist pain respond well to non-surgical treatments and can improve within a few weeks. At Fremont Hand Therapy, we focus on conservative approaches, including home care techniques like the RICE method, guidance on anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted exercises and stretches to strengthen muscles and restore mobility. Additionally, we provide immobilization with a brace or splint, steroid injections, and comprehensive hand therapy services to support a full recovery.
If you’re experiencing persistent hand or wrist pain that hasn’t improved in weeks, months, or even years, consider consulting Dr. Besh, a hand specialist at Fremont Hand Therapy, to explore effective treatment options. Dr. Besh and his team at Fremont Hand Therapy will create a personalized treatment plan after carefully assessing the nature of your injury or condition, working with you to determine the best approach based on your unique needs, goals, and lifestyle. For some patients, surgery may be necessary, and we are fully equipped to provide expert surgical care as a last-resort option to help you achieve lasting relief.
Don’t let hand or wrist pain hold you back any longer. Call us at (510) 350-3030 or schedule your consultation online today.