Introduction
The wrist joint is a complex interconnection of eight carpal ones, the two bones of the forearm and the hand. Degeneration of any part of the joint complex can have a significant impact on hand function.
Causes
Wrist arthritis can be degenerative osteoarthritis, inflammatory from conditions such as rheumatoid and post traumatic after fractures or ligament injuries.
Symptoms
Wrist arthritis will cause wrist pain, stiffness and swelling. Often the symptoms are worse in the morning or after heavy use of the hands but in more severe cases the discomfort can be constant.
Tests
Plain x-ray is the main form of imaging for wrist arthritis. Depending of the severity and underlying cause, CT or MRI imaging may also be helpful.
Diagnosis
Wrist arthritis is diagnosed after clinical examination and identification of joint disease on x-ray or other imaging.