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, whereas CTS typically causes pain and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.
CTS symptoms often worsen at night, causing numbness and tingling that can disrupt 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 condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness that extends from the neck down the arm to the hand, often accompanied by neck pain or stiffness, which are not typical of CTS.
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 that you receive the correct treatment for your specific condition, as CTS is not always the underlying cause of hand pain.
