At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of hand and wrist injuries. Whether from a fall onto an outstretched hand, repetitive stress, or workplace injuries, common hand and wrist injuries can seriously impact your ability to perform daily tasks.

We use our hands constantly — at work, at home, and during leisure — making the hand and wrist some of the most commonly injured parts of the body.

Types and Causes of Common Hand and Wrist Injuries

There are many different types of hand injuries, each with varying levels of severity. Some are acute and traumatic; others develop over time due to overuse or poor ergonomics. Below are the most common hand and wrist injuries we treat at CJ Allen Hand Therapy.

Fractures (Broken Bones)

A hand fracture, wrist fracture, or finger fracture is a break in one or more bones of the hand or wrist. These common injuries often occur from a fall onto the wrist, a fall onto an outstretched hand, or blunt trauma in sports or work-related injuries.

Finger and hand fractures and broken or dislocated wrist bones may present with:

Pain and swelling

  • Deformity
  • Inability to move the finger or hand
  • Need for an X-ray and possibly surgical treatment

Some hand injuries may require a splint, while more severe fractures may require surgery.

Sprains and Ligament Injuries

A sprain is a stretch or tear in a ligament, often from twisting or overextension. This is a common type of injury in the wrist or hand.

Wrist sprains and finger sprains can happen during sports, car accidents, or falls and may lead to:

  • Pain in the wrist or elbow
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Difficulty using the affected area

Some wrist injuries may seem minor but can involve partial ligament tears that need early diagnosis and treatment.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common hand condition involving compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. This nerve injury causes:

Tingling or numbness in the palm of the hand and fingers

Weak grip

Pain in the wrist and hand

It’s one of the most common hand injuries caused by overuse, repetitive motion, or poor posture — especially in workplace injuries. If left untreated, it may require surgery.

Tendon Injuries (Overuse and Traumatic)

Tendon injuries occur when tendons become irritated, inflamed, or torn. These can be due to overuse, trauma, or sudden strain.

Some common hand injuries and conditions related to tendons include

  • Trigger finger: A condition where the finger catches or locks due to inflamed tendons
  • Tendinitis: Pain along the wrist, elbow, or finger and hand
  • Tendon rupture: A serious injury that may require surgery
  • Treatments may involve splinting, exercises, and specialized hand therapy to restore motion and relieve pain.
  • Dislocations and Jammed Fingers

A jammed finger or dislocated joint occurs when bones in the finger or hand are forced out of place. These common finger injuries often happen during sports or accidental trauma.

Symptoms may include

  • Pain at the tip of the finger
  • Swelling
  • Loss of motion
  • May require taping the injured finger or splinting
  • Workplace and Repetitive Injuries

Workplace injuries are a major cause of hand injuries and wrist injuries. Repetitive tasks, poor ergonomics, and prolonged computer use can lead to:

Carpal tunnel

  • Overuse injuries
  • Tendon injuries
  • Sprains

These hand and wrist injuries can often be prevented with proper technique, rest, and early intervention.

  • Recognizing Symptoms of Hand and Wrist Injuries
  • Some of the most common symptoms of hand and wrist injuries include
  • Swelling and stiffness
  • Tingling or numbness
  • Limited range of motion
  • Weak grip strength
  • Ongoing wrist pain or painful hand
  • If you’re experiencing symptoms from a wrist or hand injury, it’s important to seek medical attention for an early diagnosis.
  • Diagnosis and Treatment Options

At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, we create personalized treatment plans tailored to the severity of the injury. Our non-surgical treatment options include:

Splinting and immobilization

  • Strengthening and stretching exercises
  • Tendon and nerve gliding techniques
  • Manual therapy
  • Post-operative rehab when needed

In some cases, surgical treatment may be necessary, and we’ll coordinate with your surgeon to support the entire treatment and recovery process.

Preventing Hand and Wrist Injuries

Preventing hand injuries is often possible through ergonomic education, proper warm-up, stretching, and using safety equipment. Whether you’re working at a desk or in a physical trade, protecting your wrist and elbow from strain is crucial.

Ready to Treat Your Hand Injury?

At CJ Allen Hand Therapy, we treat all kinds of hand injuries, wrist injuries, and complex finger and hand conditions. Our experienced hand therapists are ready to help you with the right treatment, from carpal tunnel syndrome to fractures, sprains, and more.

Don’t hesitate to contact our offices if you are recovering from a hand or upper extremity injury!