Are You Struggling with Elbow, Wrist, or Hand Pain?

If you’re experiencing persistent pain or stiffness in your elbows, wrists, or hands that won’t go away, you’re not alone. These parts of your upper extremities are essential for daily tasks like driving, cooking, and dressing. When pain interferes with these activities, it can greatly impact your quality of life. Contact us to learn how our skilled physical therapists can help reduce or even eliminate your discomfort.

Request an Appointment

What Is Elbow, Wrist, and Hand Pain?

Pain in these areas can range from mild to severe and may come and go depending on your activities. Besides pain, you might notice tingling, numbness, or difficulty lifting and handling objects. Persistent pain and discomfort in your arms and hands can make everyday tasks challenging and frustrating.

Common Causes of Elbow, Wrist, and Hand Pain

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition affects the wrist where tendons and the median nerve pass through. Pressure on this nerve causes numbness, burning, and pain that may extend from the wrist to the elbow, along with a weakened grip and swelling.
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Caused by narrowing tissues at the elbow, this condition impacts the ulnar nerve running from the shoulder down to the wrist. Symptoms include weakness, tingling, or numbness in the pinky and ring fingers, along with hand pain.
  • Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning your tendons and joints, often caused by repetitive movements or overuse, common in shoulders and elbows.
  • Arthritis: Affecting over 50 million Americans, arthritis can cause pain and stiffness in the joints of your elbows, wrists, and hands.
  • Sprains and Strains: Common in sports or due to sudden twists or falls, these injuries can cause pain and limited motion in the hands and wrists.

Common Conditions We Treat in Council Bluffs

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Also called median nerve compression, this causes numbness, tingling, or weakness in your palm, thumb, and fingers.
  • Arthritis: Early signs include dull or burning joint pain, often worsening after increased use, with morning stiffness.
  • Trigger Finger: A finger that gets stuck in a bent position and snaps straight due to inflammation and thickening of the tendon sheath.
  • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Painful inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist, causing pain when turning the wrist, grasping, or making a fist.

How Physical Therapy Can Help

Physical therapy is a proven, effective way to relieve or eliminate pain in your elbows, wrists, and hands—and can often help you avoid surgery. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) notes that manual therapy may be more effective than surgery for some conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Your physical therapist will collaborate with your primary care doctor to identify the root cause of your pain. After a thorough evaluation of your flexibility, strength, and movement, your therapist will design a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include exercises and stretches to improve strength and range of motion, along with therapies such as heat, ice, massage, or electrical stimulation.

If you’re struggling with pain in your elbows, wrists, or hands, our experienced physical therapists can help you find relief and regain function. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start improving your quality of life.