Wrist deviation refers to the abnormal movement of the wrist joint, either towards the thumb side (radial deviation) or the little finger side (ulnar deviation). The underlying causes vary depending on the direction of the deviation.
Ulnar Deviation
Ulnar deviation, the most common type of wrist deviation, is when the wrist bends towards the little finger. Common causes include:
- Chronic Inflammation: This is frequently associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where inflammation damages the wrist joint and surrounding tissues over time. The reference points specifically to chronic inflammation as a primary cause in this context.
- Ligament and Muscle Problems: Issues affecting the muscles and ligaments supporting the wrist can also lead to ulnar deviation. This can include injuries, tears, or imbalances.
- Advanced Osteoarthritis: While less frequent than rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis can also damage the wrist joint, leading to deviation as cartilage degrades.
- Trauma: Fractures or dislocations around the wrist can, if improperly healed, lead to chronic instability and deviation.
Radial Deviation
Radial deviation involves the wrist bending towards the thumb. Causes are generally less common and include:
- Tendon Injuries: Damage to the tendons on the ulnar side (little finger side) of the wrist can weaken the support structure, leading to radial deviation.
- Nerve Damage: Injuries to the ulnar nerve can cause muscle weakness, potentially leading to an imbalance that results in radial deviation.
- De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: While this condition primarily affects the thumb tendons, severe or chronic cases can indirectly contribute to radial deviation due to altered biomechanics.
In Summary: Wrist deviation stems from a variety of factors, including chronic inflammatory conditions, injuries to ligaments, tendons, or nerves, and issues affecting the wrist joint itself. The specific cause often depends on whether the deviation is radial or ulnar.
