The most likely reason your wrist hurts when you bend it forward (wrist flexion) is a wrist sprain.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Pain when bending the wrist forward, backward, or side-to-side movements is often a sign of a wrist sprain.
Possible Causes and Symptoms of Wrist Pain When Bending Forward:
- Wrist Sprain: This is the most common cause. A sprain involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments that support the wrist.
- Symptoms: Throbbing, sharp pain, or a dull ache that comes and goes. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are also common.
- Other Potential Causes: While a sprain is most likely, other possibilities exist:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: While typically causing pain and numbness in the hand and fingers, it can sometimes manifest as wrist pain that worsens with certain movements.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the wrist can cause pain when the wrist is used. De Quervain's tenosynovitis affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist.
- Arthritis: Although less common in the wrist than in larger joints, arthritis can cause pain and stiffness.
- Ganglion Cyst: A noncancerous fluid-filled lump that can develop near tendons or joints in the wrist.
What to Do:
If you're experiencing wrist pain when bending forward, consider the following:
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
- Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Use a wrist brace or bandage to provide support.
- Elevation: Keep your wrist elevated to reduce swelling.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
When to See a Doctor:
If your pain is severe, doesn't improve with home treatment after a few days, or is accompanied by significant swelling, numbness, or tingling, it's important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. They can rule out other potential causes and recommend appropriate management strategies.
