Hand and Wrist Pain

What is it?

The hand and wrist are highly specialized structures that enable us to perform precise movements, ranging from writing to gripping objects or carrying out delicate tasks. To function correctly, they rely on the coordinated work of muscles, tendons, joints, and the nervous system.

Although the pain may be localized in the wrist or hand, in many cases the origin of the problem can be found in structures located further up, such as the neck, shoulder, or arm.

Most Common Symptoms

• Pain in the wrist or hand.

• Tingling in the fingers.

• Numbness sensation.

• Loss of strength.

• Sharp shooting pains or electrical sensations.

• Difficulty gripping objects.

• Discomfort when writing or carrying weight.

Why does it appear?

The discomfort may be related to:

• Tendon overload.

• Nerve irritation.

• Cervical mobility impairments.

• Biomechanical shoulder dysfunctions.

• Repetitive movements.

• Strength or stability deficits.

• Nervous system sensitization.

The Importance of the

Neck-Arm-Hand Kinetic Chain

The nerves that provide sensation and motor control to the hand originate in the cervical spine and travel down the entire upper limb.

Therefore, a dysfunction in the neck, shoulder, or arm can manifest as pain, tingling, or loss of strength in the hand, even when the wrist is not the root cause of the problem.

A comprehensive global assessment allows us to identify where the dysfunction actually lies and avoid treating only the symptom.

Therapeutic Approach

Treatment may combine:

• Manual therapy.

• Myofascial release.

• Neural mobilization.

• Joint mobilization.

• Therapeutic exercise.

• Dry needling, when indicated.

• Movement re-education and ergonomics.

Treatment Goals

• Reduce pain.

• Restore mobility.

• Improve strength.

• Promote nerve function.

• Optimize the movement of the entire upper extremity.

• Reduce recurrences.