Hand and wrist injuries, particularly wrist pain, are among the most common work-related injuries across various industries. These injuries often stem from repetitive movements, poor ergonomics, or insufficient protective measures. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 1 in 5 workplace injuries involve the upper extremities, with hand and wrist injuries frequently occurring.
Such wrist injuries can greatly affect a worker's daily life, leading to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and chronic pain that disrupts personal activities and overall quality of life.
Fortunately, Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve specializes in treating these work-related conditions, providing customized treatment options to help workers alleviate hand and wrist pain and restore comfort and functionality to their routines.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Workers at risk of developing discomfort or injuries in their hands and wrists should pay attention to the following aspects:
Symptoms:
- Numbness or tingling may be felt in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers. This can be seen with activity or even during sleep.
- Weakness in the hands can manifest as difficulty gripping objects or performing tasks.
- Some individuals may experience pain radiating up the arm, which can indicate tendon strain or nerve compression.
Causes:
- Repetitive wrist motions, particularly in jobs involving prolonged typing or tool use, significantly contribute to these issues.
- Poor wrist positioning can place added pressure on the median nerve, leading to discomfort.
- Certain health conditions, such as diabetes, pregnancy, or thyroid disorders, can also heighten the risk of experiencing these symptoms.
By recognizing these symptoms, understanding the underlying causes, and implementing preventive measures, workers can significantly reduce their risk of discomfort and improve productivity.
2. Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation or irritation of the tendons, the fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. It often affects the hand, and wrist. Several types of tendonitis can occur, including De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, which affects the tendons at the thumb side of the wrist, and flexor tendonitis, which can be felt at the palm side wrist or hand, and impacts the tendons that allow for finger gripping or grasping movement.
Symptoms:
- Pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling near the affected tendon.
- Symptoms may worsen with movement.
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the wrist or hand.
Causes:
- Repetitive wrist and hand motions.
- Prolonged use of hand tools.
- Poor ergonomic practices.
Recognizing these factors and symptoms can lead to early intervention and effective management of the condition.
3. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) refers to a collection of painful conditions caused by repetitive movements and overuse of muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. This type of injury is often seen in the hands, wrists, arms, and elbows, particularly among individuals who perform repetitive tasks without sufficient breaks or ergonomic adjustments.
Symptoms:
● Common signs include ongoing pain, tenderness, or swelling in the affected areas.
● Individuals may also feel stiffness, muscle spasms, or a sense of weakness, making daily activities challenging.
Common sites:
Elbow—The outer part of the elbow is a common site of RSI. Sometimes, it is referred to as ‘Tennis elbow.’
Causes:
- High-risk activities that can lead to RSI often involve prolonged typing, assembly line work, or excessive use of tools that strain the wrist or elbow.
- Poor posture, an inadequate workstation setup, and insufficient rest can worsen these problems, raising the risk of injury.
To prevent RSI and promote worker health and productivity, it’s crucial to implement ergonomic solutions, take regular breaks, and vary tasks throughout the day. In some cases, using a wrist brace can also provide support and relief for those experiencing symptoms.
4. Fractures
Wrist and hand fractures are common injuries arising from various incidents, with falls and accidents being the primary causes. These fractures can vary in severity, from minor cracks to complete breaks, and can significantly affect mobility and function.
Common Fractures:
- Colles' Fracture: A distal radius fracture occurring just above the wrist, often resulting from a fall on an outstretched hand.
- Scaphoid Fracture: A fracture of a small wrist bone, typically caused by fall, landing on the palm.
- Boxer's Fracture: A fracture of the metacarpal bone in the hand, usually from a crush injury or a fall.
- Finger tip fractures: A fracture of the bone at the tip of the finger, which usually results from a ‘stove’ or crush injury to the finger.
Causes:
- Falls: A major contributor to hand and wrist fractures, particularly among older adults.
- Sports Injuries: High-contact activities like basketball or football often lead to fractures.
- Accidents: Sudden impacts from workplace incidents such as slip and falls or crush injuries, can result in fractures.
It's important to recognize signs of a wrist fracture, such as swelling, intense pain, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected area, to seek prompt medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital for ensuring proper healing and recovery.
5. Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are common workplace injuries that impact different areas of the elbow, wrist, or hand. A sprain occurs when ligaments—the connective tissues linking bones at a joint are overstretched or torn, while a strain refers to injuries affecting muscles or tendons, which connect muscles to bones. In workplace settings, sprains, including wrist, hand or thumb, often occur due to:
● Awkward movements
● Falls
● Improper lifting techniques
● Environments requiring repetitive motions and heavy physical tasks
● Crush injury to the hand or wrist
Strains typically result from:
● Overexertion
● Poor technique during physical activities, leading to muscle fatigue or tears
● Slip and fall injury
Understanding injury causes helps us implement preventive measures like proper lifting techniques and regular breaks to reduce fatigue.
6. De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the sheath or covering surrounding the tendons at the base of the thumb becomes inflamed, leading to pain and restricted motion.
Symptoms:
- Individuals often experience pain and tenderness near the base of the thumb or thumb side of the wrist, which may worsen with thumb movement or gripping activities.
- Swelling and redness around the wrist can occur, and there may be a noticeable clicking or snapping sensation when moving the thumb.
- Symptoms can radiate up the forearm, sometimes creating additional discomfort and limiting the functionality of the hand for daily tasks.
Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to effective management and relief from the pain associated with De Quervain's tenosynovitis.
7. Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a condition that can arise in the workplace, particularly among individuals who perform repetitive gripping or grasping motions. This condition occurs when the tendons that control finger flexion become irritated and inflamed, leading to a painful locking or catching sensation in the palm of the affected finger when attempting to flex or extend it.
Symptoms:
- Clicking or popping sound when moving the affected finger.
- Stiffness in the morning.
- Pain, redness, or tenderness at the base of the finger, in the palm.
- In severe cases, the finger may become locked in a bent position, making it difficult to straighten
8. Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are benign, fluid-filled sacs that often develop near joints or tendons, most commonly found on the wrists, hands, or fingers. They can vary in size and may appear suddenly or gradually. In labor-intensive jobs, the repetitive motion and strain on the wrists can increase the likelihood of these cysts forming, as constant pressure on the joints may irritate the surrounding tissue.
● Overuse injuries
● Trauma to the joint
● Formation of cysts as the body responds to stress
● Persistent cysts causing discomfort may require:
● Medical intervention
● Treatment options such as aspiration or surgical removal
9.Ulnar Nerve Compression
Ulnar nerve compression, or cubital tunnel syndrome, happens when the ulnar nerve along the inside of the elbow suffers pressure or irritation. In the workplace, factors contributing to this condition can include:
● Prolonged elbow flexion (e.g., resting the arm on a desk while using a computer)
● Repetitive elbow bending, seen commonly in welders or mechanics
● Using tools that cause pressure on the nerve or cause vibration to the arm
Symptoms may include:
● Tingling or numbness in the ring and little fingers
● Hand weakness
● Pain on the inner elbow
● Reduced grip strength or hand coordination
● Difficulty with everyday tasks
Early recognition of these symptoms is crucial to prevent additional nerve damage and to implement ergonomic practices that reduce the risk of developing this condition. Incorporating physical therapy can also be beneficial in managing these issues effectively.
Conclusion
The significance of early diagnosis and recognition of work-related injury symptoms cannot be overstated. Prompt identification of conditions like sprains, strains, and nerve compressions is essential for effective treatment and recovery. Being aware of the signs and taking swift action can prevent complications and ensure a quicker return to normal routines. In cases of severe injuries, such as wrist injuries, working with trusted medical professionals is crucial. They provide vital support in guiding treatment decisions and implementing preventive strategies tailored to the workplace. By prioritizing health and safety, individuals enhance their well-being and contribute to a more productive and harmonious work environment.
Get The Right Treatment For Workplace Injuries
Recognizing the signs of traumatic injuries, particularly common elbow, wrist, and hand injuries, is crucial in the workplace. Prioritize your well-being by seeking timely treatment to relieve pain and adopting preventative measures to protect your health.
Don’t wait until it’s too late—take the first step toward a safer and more productive work environment today! Book an appointment at Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve now!
