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Wrist Osteoarthritis

Wrist osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the wrist, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement over time. At RAD Clinics, our expert team is dedicated to providing personalised care tailored to your needs. Our use of advanced imaging techniques, such as ultrasound guidance, ensures the highest level of precision in administering injections for osteoarthritis in wrist joint. We aim to offer effective, non-invasive treatments that help relieve pain, improve joint function, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Close-up of a woman holding her wrist with visible redness, indicating wrist osteoarthritis pain.

Causes of Wrist Osteoarthritis

Wrist osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage in the wrist joint wears away, leading to friction between bones. Common causes include:

  • Age-related degeneration: Natural wear and tear over time.
  • Previous wrist injuries: Fractures or dislocations can increase the risk of developing arthritis.
  • Repetitive strain: Occupations or activities involving repetitive wrist motions can lead to chronic wear and tear.
  • Genetics: Family history of arthritis can also increase susceptibility.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: Autoimmune conditions can predispose joints to secondary osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of Wrist Osteoarthritis

Symptoms of wrist osteoarthritis usually develop gradually but can worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain: Particularly when using the wrist or performing tasks like gripping.
  • Stiffness: Reduced range of motion in the wrist joint.
  • Swelling: Inflammation in the joint can cause visible swelling.
  • Grinding sensation: A feeling of bone-on-bone rubbing during movement.
  • Weakness: Difficulty in performing tasks that require wrist strength.

Anatomy of the Wrist Joint

The wrist joint is a complex structure composed of multiple small bones (carpals) that connect the hand to the forearm. These bones are held together by ligaments, and cartilage covers the surfaces of the bones to ensure smooth movement. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage wears down, leading to pain and dysfunction.

 

Diagnosis of Wrist Osteoarthritis

Diagnosing wrist osteoarthritis involves a thorough evaluation, including:

  • Clinical history: A detailed examination of symptoms, medical history, and previous injuries.
  • Physical examination: Assessment of pain, range of motion, and joint deformities.
  • Imaging: X-rays are typically used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, and bone spurs.

At RAD Clinics, we ensure an accurate diagnosis using state-of-the-art imaging technology to develop a targeted treatment plan.

Doctor examining a patient's wrist, possibly for osteoarthritis or joint issues.

Cortisone Injections for Wrist Osteoarthritis

At RAD Clinics, we offer ultrasound-guided cortisone injections as a non-surgical treatment for osteoarthritis in the wrist joint. This technique ensures precise delivery of anti-inflammatory medication into the affected area, providing significant osteoarthritis wrist pain relief and reducing inflammation.

Benefits of Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections

  • Precision and accuracy: The ultrasound guidance ensures the cortisone is injected directly into the joint, maximising efficacy.
  • Pain relief: Cortisone injections reduce inflammation in the joint, providing relief from pain and stiffness.
  • Minimally invasive: UG injections are a non-surgical treatment option, offering patients a safer alternative to surgery.
  • Faster recovery: With minimal downtime, patients can often resume normal activities quickly after the procedure.

What to Expect During the Procedure

During the procedure, an ultrasound machine is used to guide the needle into the exact location within the wrist joint. Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area, ensuring comfort during the injection. The cortisone solution is then delivered into the joint to reduce inflammation.

The procedure is quick, taking approximately 20-30 minutes, and you can usually return home the same day. At RAD Clinics, we ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for all patients undergoing ultrasound-guided injections.

When to Seek Treatment

If you are experiencing persistent wrist pain, stiffness, or a noticeable reduction in your ability to perform daily tasks, it may be time to seek treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent further joint damage and improve your quality of life.

Consider seeking treatment if:

  • Pain is interfering with daily activities.
  • Over-the-counter pain medications are no longer effective.
  • Stiffness and swelling persist even at rest.
  • You experience weakness or instability in your wrist.

At RAD Clinics, we specialise in providing non-surgical treatments, including ultrasound-guided injections, to help you manage your symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.

Doctor performing an ultrasound examination on a patient's wrist for joint issues or osteoarthritis.

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Exceptional professional service, highly recommended for quick, efficient, and friendly ultrasound scans and injections. Instant relief, thorough analysis, and personalized treatment at reasonable prices.

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.

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