Medications To Treat Wrist Pain
If you are experiencing wrist pain, your doctor may prescribe medications to help relieve your symptoms. These may include; (6)
NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin, are often prescribed for mild wrist pain. These drugs work by reducing inflammation and pain. Some common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Consulting your physician before taking any medication is important, as some NSAIDs can interact with other medications you are taking. Additionally, NSAIDs can cause stomach problems in some people, so it is important to take them with food if you are prone to stomach issues.
If your pain is more severe, your doctor may prescribe a stronger NSAID or a prescription opioid medication.
Opioids
There are a range of opioid medications that can be prescribed for wrist pain. The most common type of opioid medication is called a narcotic. Narcotic medications can be very effective at reducing pain, but they also have the potential to be addictive. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dose of a narcotic and increase the dose if it is needed. There are also other types of opioid medications that can be used for wrist pain, such as morphine and oxycodone. These medications work in a similar way to narcotic medications, but they are less likely to cause addiction.
Muscle relaxants
Muscle relaxants are a class of medications used to relieve muscle spasms and pain. They work by blocking impulses that cause the muscles to contract. This can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Muscle relaxants are often prescribed for muscle spasm conditions of the wrist.
There are a number of different muscle relaxants available, each with its own set of benefits and side effects. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, and nausea. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of medication with your doctor before starting treatment.
Muscle relaxants may be a good option for people who experience wrist pain from muscle stress. They can help to reduce muscle spasms and inflammation, which may help to improve symptoms. However, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of treatment before starting therapy.
Proteolytic enzymes
These are a class of enzymes that break down proteins. They have been shown to be effective in reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling. proteolytic enzymes can be taken orally or applied topically. Some of the most common proteolytic enzymes include bromelain, papain, trypsin, and chymotrypsin.
Proteolytic enzymes for wrist pain seem to work best when combined with other therapies such as ice, heat, and massage. They can be prescribed to treat a variety of wrist conditions including sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis. These medications are generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, they may cause nausea or diarrhea in some people.
Steroids
When most people think of steroids, they think of athletes illegally taking performance-enhancing drugs in order to gain a competitive edge. However, steroids can also be used legitimately to treat medical conditions. For example, corticosteroids are a type of steroid that is commonly prescribed for the treatment of inflammation.
If you are experiencing wrist pain and swelling, your doctor may prescribe a course of corticosteroids to help reduce the inflammation and alleviate your symptoms. While steroids are not a cure for wrist pain, they can provide significant relief for some people.
Topical medications
There are many topical medications that can be used to treat wrist pain. Some of the most common include:
- Ibuprofen gel or cream – This is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help reduce inflammation and pain. It is available over-the-counter and can be applied directly to the skin.
- Capsaicin cream – This cream contains capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers that helps to relieve pain. It is available over-the-counter and can be applied directly to the skin.
- Arnica cream – This cream is made from the arnica plant and is thought to help reduce inflammation and pain. It is available over-the-counter or may be prescribed by your doctor.
Cortisone shots for ganglion cysts
Your doctor may recommend getting a steroid shot to get rid of a ganglion cyst. The injection contains cortisone- a steroid medicine that helps dissolve the cyst. It is given as a shot into the cyst.