What is the best treatment for wrist pain?

The best treatment for wrist pain depends on the cause.

Some of the most common causes and their treatments include:

•    Minor injury, sprain, strain – rest, wearing a splint or brace, heat, over-the-counter pain relievers
•    Ganglion cyst – over-the-counter pain relievers; occasionally a drainage procedure or surgery may be recommended
•    Osteoarthritis – rest balanced with gentle exercises, wearing a splint or brace, pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medicine, cortisone injection; rarely, surgery
•    Rheumatoid arthritis – anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive medicine, wearing a splint or brace, exercise; cortisone injection
•    Carpal tunnel syndrome – wearing a splint or brace at night or intermittently during the day; a cortisone injection; surgery

For persistent symptoms, consultation with an occupational therapist can be helpful.

For wrist pain accompanied by symptoms that might suggest a serious cause, prompt medical evaluation is warranted. Concerning symptoms include fever, marked swelling or severe pain after an injury.