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Wrist Bursitis

Wrist bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion and lubricate the joints, tendons, and muscles around the wrist. Bursae help reduce friction between these structures during movement. When the bursae in the wrist become irritated or inflamed, it can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility in the affected area. At RAD Clinics, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients suffering from wrist bursitis.

Causes of Wrist Bursitis

Wrist bursitis can result from various factors, including:

Repetitive Movements: Frequent activities that involve repetitive wrist motions, such as typing, playing sports, or lifting objects, can lead to irritation and inflammation of the bursae.
Injury or Trauma: Direct impact or trauma to the wrist, such as a fall or sudden twisting motion, can cause bursitis.
Underlying Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can increase the likelihood of developing bursitis.
Poor Ergonomics: Incorrect posture while performing tasks, particularly those requiring wrist use, may contribute to bursitis.
Age: The risk of bursitis increases with age due to the natural wear and tear of the joints and surrounding structures.

Symptoms of Wrist Bursitis

Patients with wrist bursitis may experience a range of symptoms, including:

Pain and Tenderness: Localised pain at the site of the bursa, which may worsen with movement or pressure.
Swelling: Visible swelling over the affected area, which may feel warm to the touch.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty moving the wrist due to pain and stiffness.
Popping or Cracking Sounds: A sensation of grinding or popping during wrist movements.

Anatomy of the Wrist

To understand wrist bursitis, it is important to recognise the anatomy of the wrist. The wrist consists of multiple bones, ligaments, tendons, and bursae. The key components include:

Carpal Bones: Eight small bones that make up the wrist joint.
Tendons: Connect muscles to bones and allow for movement.
Bursae: Fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction between the tendons and bones. In the wrist, the most commonly affected bursa is the dorsal wrist bursa.

Diagnosis of Wrist Bursitis

At RAD Clinics, diagnosing wrist bursitis involves a thorough assessment:

Physical Examination: Our healthcare professionals will conduct a detailed examination of the wrist, assessing pain levels, range of motion, and swelling.
Medical History: A discussion of your medical history, including any previous injuries or underlying conditions, will assist in the diagnosis.
Imaging Studies: If necessary, ultrasound or MRI may be employed to confirm the diagnosis, evaluate the bursae, and rule out other conditions such as tendonitis or arthritis.

Cortisone Injections for Wrist Bursitis

At RAD Clinics, we provide comprehensive treatment options for wrist bursitis, focusing on ultrasound-guided injections as a primary intervention.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

Precise Targeting: Ultrasound imaging allows our specialists to accurately locate the inflamed bursa, ensuring optimal injection placement.
Minimally Invasive: This outpatient procedure requires minimal downtime, making it convenient for our patients.
Pain Relief: Corticosteroid injections can significantly reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with wrist bursitis.
Improved Mobility: The reduction of inflammation can lead to enhanced movement and function of the wrist.
Decreased Recurrence: The injection can help shrink the bursa and lower the likelihood of future flare-ups, providing longer-lasting relief.

What to Expect During the Procedure

When you visit RAD Clinics for an ultrasound-guided injection, you can expect the following process:

Preparation: You will be comfortably seated, and the area around the bursa will be cleaned to minimise infection risk.
Ultrasound Imaging: Our specialists will use ultrasound technology to visualise the bursa and surrounding structures, ensuring the most effective injection site is selected.
Injection: A fine needle will be inserted into the inflamed bursa, and corticosteroid medication will be injected. Patients may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure is generally well-tolerated.
Post-Procedure Care: After the injection, you will be monitored briefly before receiving specific aftercare instructions to ensure optimal recovery.

When to Seek Treatment

It is essential to seek treatment at RAD Clinics if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent Pain or Discomfort: Ongoing pain that affects daily activities and does not improve with rest or home remedies.
- Increased Swelling or Redness: If swelling or redness in the wrist worsens or spreads.
- Limited Mobility: Difficulty performing simple wrist movements or using the hand.
- Signs of Infection: Symptoms such as fever, increased warmth, or discharge from the site of the bursa may indicate an infection that requires immediate attention.

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DISCLAIMER

We do not accept insurance coverage. If you wish to reimburse your fees, then please kindly check with your insurance provider prior to booking as we cannot be held responsible for any non-payments.