Understanding Hand and Wrist Pain
6/19/2026
Hand and wrist pain affects people of all ages and can interfere with work, hobbies and daily activities. Because we rely on our hands constantly, even minor injuries can become major frustrations. At Lakeside Physicians, orthopedic surgeons Cody Hartshorn, M.D., and Corey Mark, M.D., diagnose and treat a wide range of hand and wrist conditions to restore comfort and function.
Arthritis
Arthritis develops when cartilage in the joints wears down. Symptoms include stiffness, swelling, aching and reduced grip strength. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, splints, physical therapy, injections or surgical options, depending on severity.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist. Symptoms include numbness or tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers, hand weakness and nighttime pain. Treatments include splinting, activity modification, injections and carpal tunnel release surgery, when needed.
Dislocation
Hand or wrist dislocations happen when a joint is forced out of alignment. These injuries cause immediate pain, swelling and limited movement. Treatment may involve repositioning the joint, splinting, therapy or surgery if ligaments are damaged.
Fractures
Hand and wrist fractures commonly result from falls or direct impact. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, sharp pain and difficulty moving the fingers or wrist. Treatment ranges from splinting to surgical .
Sprains
Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, often from sudden twisting or falls. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and difficulty gripping. Rest, ice, compression, elevation, and therapy are common treatments.
Strains
Strains affect muscles or tendons and often occur with repetitive motion, lifting, or gripping. Symptoms include aching pain, weakness, and stiffness. Treatment involves rest, stretching, strengthening, and activity modification.
Tendon Injuries
Tendon injuries may include irritation, inflammation or tears. Symptoms include pain along the wrist or thumb, swelling and pain with gripping. Treatment may include splinting, therapy, injections or surgical repair.
Vascular Conditions
Vascular issues can reduce blood flow to the hand or fingers, causing pain, numbness or color changes. Proper diagnosis helps determine the best treatment plan.
When to See an Orthopedic Surgeon
Seek evaluation if symptoms:
- Last more than a few weeks
- Interfere with gripping or daily tasks
- Cause numbness or tingling
- Follow a fall or traumatic injury
- Cause swelling or visible deformity
“Hand and wrist issues tend to worsen if ignored,” says Dr. Hartshorn. “Early treatment usually leads to better outcomes.”
Dr. Mark adds, “Most patients improve with conservative care, and surgery is reserved for cases that truly need it.”
Doctors Hartshorn and Mark treat arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, dislocations, fractures, sprains, strains, tendon injuries and vascular conditions.
To schedule an appointment, call Lakeside Physicians Orthopedics at (817) 579-2020 or visit https://www.lakesidephysicians.com/our-locations/lakeside-physicians-orthopedic-surgery-1310b-palux-1506.
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