Finding a lump or bump on your wrist or hand can be quite worrisome, especially if the affected area has started to cause you some pain or discomfort. Now, there is a multitude of possible causes for this lump, and a doctor should diagnose your case immediately so that it won’t worsen.
If you want to know more about what may be causing that lump, read on as we go through a list of possible causes for the lump in your hand or wrist!
Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that commonly develop around the tendons and joints of the wrists and hands. They usually form after an injury but can also just randomly grow for no reason at all. They are quite harmless and can even disappear on their own. However, if a ganglion cyst is located near a nerve, it can cause some pain and discomfort.
If your ganglion cyst is causing you problems, you can opt for a ganglion cyst removal. Our team of experienced surgeons at the Hand and Wrist Center is more than qualified to perform wrist surgery to remove the mass if needed.
Carpal Boss
A carpometacarpal boss, or carpal boss for short, is an overgrowth of bone at the point where your index or middle finger intersects the carpal bones. This overgrowth is what causes a hard lump to form on your wrist. Carpal boss is mostly harmless and only requires treatment if it’s causing pain or is limiting the wrist’s range of motion.
When it comes to treatment, a wrist surgery isn’t usually the first option. In case of pain, icing the affected area can provide relief. Doctors can also advise their patients to wear a splint or bandage to immobilize the wrist in order to deal with the pain. If the carpal boss is still an issue, injecting a corticosteroid––a drug that reduces inflammation––into the wrist usually alleviates the pain. If none of these forms of treatment work, only then will the doctors consider to surgically remove the lump.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes your immune system to attack your joints. This can cause significant pain and discomfort due to the inflammation. Now, some people with rheumatoid arthritis have rheumatoid nodules. These manifest as lumps under your skin and can be located in your hand and wrist. Although the lumps don’t usually hurt, this could differ on a person-by-person basis.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a condition that develops due to the repeated movement and forceful use of your finger or thumb. This can cause severe discomfort, especially if your hand has been immobile for quite some time. Trigger fingers can sometimes cause a lump to appear on the base of the affected finger. In this case, stretching can provide relief from the condition. If your trigger finger is particularly bad, a doctor may recommend a steroid injection that can help manage the symptoms.
Should You See a Doctor?
While a lump in your hand or wrist is usually nothing more than a slight inconvenience, it’s still in your best interest to see a doctor whenever you find a new lump. You’ll also want to go see a doctor if the lump is causing you any amount of pain or discomfort, as these are usually symptoms of something more serious!
If you’re looking for a hand and wrist doctor in Jacksonville, Florida, the Hand & Wrist Center is your best choice. We’re committed to providing patients with the best care possible and have been doing so since 1995. Get in touch with us today to book an appointment!
