Persistent Wrist Pain One Month After IV Insertion
I’m a 29-year-old woman weighing 160 pounds, with no history of medical issues; I don’t use medications, smoke, or drink alcohol. Recently, I was admitted to the hospital where they inserted an IV in my wrist, just above the thumb. The nurse was quite forceful during the insertion, which resulted in a bit of discomfort, but I attributed that to the IV itself. There were no signs of infiltration, and I did observe blood return. However, since that time, I've been experiencing pain in the same area and slightly further up my arm. This discomfort has not improved at all. Even something as simple as holding a water bottle causes significant pain, making daily tasks like washing dishes challenging. Given that I’m pregnant and due to have a baby in a few months, I'm anxious about whether I’ll struggle to hold my child. I’m aware that pregnancy limits my activities, but I’m seeking reassurance or potential explanations for my symptoms. I’ve been using a wrist brace, which seems to offer some relief—though when I take it off, the pain often intensifies, perhaps due to lesser movement. I used to wake up with considerable pain after sleeping awkwardly on my wrist. Should I continue using the brace, or would it be better to move my wrist more frequently?
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 3:10:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with persistent wrist pain following your IV insertion, and given your pregnancy, it's understandable to feel worried about how this might affect your daily activities and your ability to care for your baby. Your symptoms could be related to soft tissue irritation or a mild injury, which might include conditions like tendinitis or a localized inflammation from the IV placement. Here’s how we can approach your situation:
Explanation:
After an IV insertion, it's not uncommon to experience some discomfort or pain, especially if the process was forceful. This can lead to inflammation of the tissues around the area or strain on tendons, particularly if you’ve changed how you use your wrist to avoid pain. The fact that wearing a brace helps might indicate that immobilization is beneficial for recovery, but it’s also important to promote healing through gentle movement.
Next Steps:
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Continue Using the Wrist Brace: You can keep using the wrist brace, especially during activities that cause pain. This will provide support and help reduce strain on your wrist.
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Gentle Movement: Begin incorporating gentle wrist movements while wearing the brace. Try simple stretches and motions within a pain-free range to promote blood circulation and help maintain flexibility without overexerting the area.
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Pain Management: If you experience pain, consider using ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to help reduce inflammation. You may also find over-the-counter pain relievers (like acetaminophen) helpful, but always consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medication during pregnancy.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels and any changes in movement capability. If symptoms don't improve over the next week or worsen, it might be important to seek further evaluation for potential underlying issues.
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Supportive Accessories: When performing daily tasks, consider using ergonomic tools (like lighter water bottles) to minimize strain on your wrist.
You’re doing well by being proactive about your symptoms, and these steps can help you manage the pain while preparing for your new role as a parent. If you have further concerns or if the situation doesn’t improve, please reach out for professional medical advice.
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