[23F] Experiencing chronic hand/wrist/arm pain post-accident

Patient Description

A 23-year-old female has been experiencing chronic pain in her hand, wrist, and arm for approximately two years following a quad bike accident. The pain is described as numbness, tingling, and sharp, stabbing sensations that worsen with activities such as typing, picking up objects, or moving the hand. The affected areas often appear red and swollen and feel cold to the touch. She also reports weakness in her hand and fingers. There was initial suspicion of a broken wrist post-accident, but this was later ruled out. The patient has no known family history of musculoskeletal or neurological conditions, no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses, no known drug allergies, and is not currently on any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve in your wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and arm. This condition is often associated with repetitive tasks like typing.

    • Treatment often involves wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and pain relievers. Severe cases may require surgery.

  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This is a form of chronic pain that usually affects an arm or a leg and typically develops after an injury. The pain is out of proportion to the severity of the initial injury.

    • Treatment typically involves a combination of physical therapy and medications.

  • Peripheral Neuropathy: This results from damage to your peripheral nerves, which often causes weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also affect other areas of your body.

    • Treatment typically involves managing the symptoms and preventing further damage.

What you can do

  1. Rest your hand and wrist as much as possible. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort.
  2. Apply ice to your wrist for 15 minutes each hour. Do this for the first 24 to 48 hours.
  3. Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce pain and inflammation.
  4. Wear a wrist splint at night to keep your wrist in a neutral position. This can help to reduce pressure on your median nerve.

What you should look out for

  • If your symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative management, you should seek medical attention.
  • If you develop severe pain, significant swelling, or changes in skin color, you should seek immediate medical attention.
  • If you notice progressive weakness or loss of function in your hand or arm, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've given me. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history in person.

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9 mo ago

People Also Ask

What are the common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and arm, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Symptoms often worsen with activities that involve repetitive hand or wrist movements.

How is Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) diagnosed?

CRPS is diagnosed based on a physical exam and the patient's medical history. Doctors may also use tests such as X-rays, MRI, or bone scans to rule out other conditions. The diagnosis is often made when pain is out of proportion to the initial injury and other symptoms like swelling, changes in skin color, and temperature changes are present.

What lifestyle changes can help manage Peripheral Neuropathy?

Lifestyle changes to manage Peripheral Neuropathy include maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and managing blood sugar levels if diabetic. It's also important to protect the affected areas from injury.

When should I seek medical attention for chronic hand and arm pain?

You should seek medical attention if your chronic hand and arm pain persists or worsens despite home treatments, if you experience severe pain, significant swelling, or changes in skin color, or if you notice progressive weakness or loss of function in your hand or arm.

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