Inability to bend your wrist back can stem from various causes, ranging from minor sprains to more serious conditions. Let's explore some possibilities.
Potential Causes of Limited Wrist Extension
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Osteoarthritis: As noted in multiple sources (https://www.opaortho.com/wrist-pain-when-bending/, https://www.verywellhealth.com/wrist-pain-causes-symptoms-and-treatments-2549458), this degenerative joint disease wears down cartilage, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It's often linked to aging, injury, or overuse.
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Wrist Sprains: A sprained wrist (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24558-sprained-wrist) frequently occurs from falling on an outstretched hand, potentially limiting backward bending.
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Fractures: A broken wrist (https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/broken-wrist-wrist-fracture), often caused by falling on a bent wrist, severely restricts movement.
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Ganglion Cysts: These fluid-filled cysts (https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/orthopaedics-articles/2021/may/that-bump-on-your-wrist-is-likely-a-ganglion-cyst) can grow and press on nerves or tendons, making wrist bending painful and difficult.
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Radial Nerve Dysfunction: Damage to the radial nerve (https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000790.htm) affects wrist and finger extension, resulting in difficulty bending the wrist backward.
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Dorsal Wrist Syndrome: This condition (https://dranzarut.com/hand/dorsal-wrist-syndrome-diagnosis-and-treatment/), occurring when the wrist bends backward excessively (past 35 degrees), damages cartilage and ligaments, leading to restricted movement.
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Lack of Flexibility: As seen in this Reddit post (https://www.reddit.com/r/indoorbouldering/comments/ooqwuk/i_cant_bend_my_wrist_back_enough_to_even_do_a/), insufficient flexibility can simply prevent full backward wrist bending. This is often addressed through targeted stretching exercises.
Seeking Professional Help
If you experience significant pain, reduced range of motion, or any other concerning symptoms when trying to bend your wrist back, consult a doctor or physical therapist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Self-treating can worsen the underlying condition.
