Seeking Guidance for Chronic Wrist Pain
Hello everyone, I need some assistance. Roughly two years back, I injured my wrist while playing soccer. Initially, the pain was intense, and after some time, I decided to consult a doctor. They diagnosed it as a severe sprain, so I used a wrist brace and tried to move on. Unfortunately, the pain persisted, but I managed to push through various sports seasons. Now that I'm in college, I returned to a specialist for a follow-up, and they conducted new x-rays. It turns out I have Dynamic Scapho-Lunate Instability, and I've been advised that surgical intervention is the only solution to fix it. While I'm not keen on discussing the surgical options, what I'm really looking for is advice on how to alleviate the discomfort I experience daily, especially when engaging in sports. I’m a Division III Volleyball player, which involves a lot of hand movement, and I’ve significantly noticed the impact of this injury during the current season as it feels increasingly unstable and painful. A bit about me: I’m 18 years old, 5'9" tall, and of Latino and White descent. The pain began two years ago due to that soccer mishap. I have no significant medical issues, I'm not currently on any medication, and I only drink alcohol occasionally. I do not smoke and live in the USA.
Answers (1)
4/4/2025, 2:30:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with ongoing and challenging wrist pain that impacts your participation in sports, particularly volleyball. Addressing your comfort is important, especially as you navigate your athletic commitments.
Main Points:
- Daily Pain Management: Identify non-surgical options to help relieve your wrist discomfort.
- Supportive Practices: Focus on specific exercises and modifications to support your wrist during activities.
- Monitoring and Progression: Keep track of your symptoms and adjust your approach as needed.
Explanation:
Dynamic scapho-lunate instability can cause pain and a feeling of weakness in the wrist, affecting your ability to play sports. While surgery may be the definitive treatment, there are still ways to manage your symptoms and minimize discomfort in the meantime.
Prioritized Next Steps:
-
Wrist Brace Use: Continue using a supportive wrist brace during sports and other activities to help stabilize your wrist and alleviate pain. Look for braces designed specifically for athletes, which allow for some movement while providing adequate support.
-
Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Consider implementing gentle wrist exercises to maintain mobility and strength without overstraining the area. Focus on:
- Wrist flexor and extensor stretches
- Wrist circles (slowly moving your wrist in circles)
- Gently squeezing a soft ball or putty to strengthen surrounding muscles
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Ice Therapy: After practice or games, apply ice to your wrist for 15-20 minutes to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Make sure to wrap ice in a cloth to protect your skin.
-
Adjusting Technique: Work with your coach to modify your playing technique, ensuring you minimize stress on your wrist. This may involve adjusting your hitting or passing techniques to reduce strain.
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Pain Relief Options: Over-the-counter pain relief medications (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen) can be considered if you find it helps alleviate pain. Always follow the recommended dosage instructions and consider any personal allergies or sensitivities.
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Symptom Journal: Keep a diary of your wrist symptoms, noting when you feel pain, the severity, and any activities that exacerbate it. This information can help you identify patterns and triggers, enabling you to make informed adjustments.
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Consider Physical Therapy: If possible, seek out a physical therapist who can provide specific exercises and techniques tailored to your wrist instability, guiding you through a safe rehabilitation process.
It’s important to prioritize your response to symptoms and make adjustments to your routine while remaining engaged in your sports activities. If your pain worsens or becomes unmanageable, be sure to revisit the discussion about surgical options with trusted specialists. Remember, it’s vital to listen to your body and give yourself the time and care you need.
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