The wrist is a complex joint connecting the hand to the arm. It consists of the radius and ulna in the arm as well as several carpals and metacarpal bones. The wrist is also home to cartilage, a special form of connective tissue, as well as tendons, joints, nerves, and blood vessels. When any of these tissues are inflamed, damaged or diseased, it can lead to significant dysfunction and pain. At The Radiology Clinic, we take wrist problems seriously and offer a range of diagnostic imaging procedures to help identify the underlying problem so that you can heal and get back to doing the things you love.
Common Wrist Problems
- Sprains and strains
- Fractures
- Tendinitis
- Ganglion cysts
- Arthritis
Wrist pain is a common problem, and it can affect just about anyone. Your risk of wrist injuries or conditions might be higher if you regularly engage in athletic activities, have work or hobbies that put a repetitive strain on your wrists and hands or have certain conditions such as diabetes or gout.
Symptoms of Wrist Injuries
Wrist symptoms can vary depending on the type of problem you’re experiencing, but generally speaking, you might suffer:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Inflammation
- Warmth at the injury site
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Stiffness
If you have any of these symptoms, your doctor might recommend further testing.
Diagnosing a Wrist Injury
A physical exam is typically the first step in diagnosing a wrist problem. Your hand may be manipulated to identify specific trouble spots and determine your range of motion. Your doctor will also likely ask you about your symptoms and your ability to perform a variety of tasks. Then, your doctor might recommend specific tests. At The Radiology Clinic, we offer several diagnostic imaging tests that can help pinpoint your problem and get you back on the road to health.
X-rays are often the first step. An X-ray might be ordered to identify a dislocation or fracture, but it can also be helpful for diagnosing bone spurs and arthritic changes. Ultrasound can be used to diagnose soft tissue problems such as ganglion cysts and tendon tears.
MRIs
We also offer MRI scans. Magnetic Resonance Imaging offers the most detailed images possible of the joints, soft tissues, and other structures. We utilize 3T MRI, which is faster and much more detailed than conventional MRIs. The MRI will produce a magnetic field, which works with radio waves to create sharp images of the internal structures of the wrist.  With a 3T MRI, you’ll spend less time in the MRI while getting the highest resolution imaging available in clinical imaging.
Please contact the friendly staff at The Radiology Clinic today at 301-217-0500 to schedule an appointment for any imaging studies that you may need.
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