Osteoarthritis (OA) of the wrist is a degenerative condition affecting the cartilage, bone and ligaments causing pain, stiffness and weakness. A trial of nonoperative management is recommended for mild and moderate disease and provides at least short-term pain relief in ~50% of patients. Surgery is an option if this fails or in severe disease.

There are many other types of arthritis other than osteoarthritis, including rheumatoid, psoriatic and gout. They are important to diagnose as prevention and treatment differs. For some there are medications that can be very effective.

60% of swellings in the hand and wrist are ganglions. They are an outpouching of the synovial lining of the joint. Observation is best if the ganglion is not painful or causing a functional problem. Nonoperative management is good for symptom control and may decrease the number and length of exacerbations.

Tendinopathy, also known as tendinitis, results in pain, swelling and weakness. The most common tendinopathies in the wrist are de Quervain’s, extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) and flexor carpi radialis (FCR). A trial of nonoperative management is recommended, but surgery is an option if this fails.