Hand and wrist pain is often mistakenly attributed solely to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), but there are other conditions that can be misdiagnosed as CTS, leading to improper treatment. One such condition is tendonitis, which occurs when the tendons in the wrist and hand become inflamed. This inflammation can affect the flexor tendons, which bend the fingers, or the extensor tendons, which straighten them.
Tendonitis shares symptoms with CTS, such as pain, tenderness, and weakness, especially during repetitive wrist and hand movements. However, the pain from tendonitis is usually more localized to the inflamed tendon. For example, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, a type of tendonitis, causes pain at the base of the thumb, affecting the thumb side of the wrist. In contrast, CTS typically causes pain and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
The timing of symptoms can also differ. CTS often causes numbness and tingling at night, disrupting sleep, while tendonitis pain can persist throughout the day and night.
Another condition that can mimic CTS is cervical radiculopathy, which involves compressed nerves in the neck. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness that extends from the neck down the arm to the hand. Unlike CTS, cervical radiculopathy may also cause neck pain or stiffness and weakness in the arm or shoulder.
When experiencing hand or wrist pain, it’s crucial to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. They will review your medical history, perform an examination, and may order tests like X-rays or nerve conduction studies. This thorough evaluation ensures you receive the correct treatment for your specific condition. While CTS is often suspected, a proper assessment can identify the true cause of your hand pain.