What Causes Burning Sensation In The Wrist?

Hi, Brief answer: Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause symptoms of burning sensation and feeling of swelling in the fingers. An orthopedic hand surgeon can help evaluate and treat this condition. Detailed answer: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, often as a result of repetitive wrists motions and poor ergonomic hygiene. The median nerve provides feeling to half of the palm side of the hand, from the thumb to the middle finger. This nerve courses through a narrow passageway in the wrist (i.e., the carpal tunnel) before going to the hand and fingers. Swelling within and around the carpal tunnel can cause compression and irritation of the median nerve resulting in carpal tunnel syndrome. While overuse injury is a common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, other contributing factors include wrist sprain/fracture, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. It is important to see a doctor to determine what may be causing your symptoms. Mild to moderate symptoms of CTS are typically treated non-surgically with wearing a wrist splint a night, taking frequent breaks to rest the hand, NSAID pain relievers, wrist exercises, and corticosteroid injections for temporary symptom relief. For patients whose symptoms do not respond to nonsurgical treatment, carpal tunnel release surgery may be appropriate. An orthopedic hand surgeon can better evaluate and treat your symptoms. Hope this helps answer your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Take care, Dr. Aaron Shapiro