Common Causes Usually trauma, such as a fall on a flexed or extended wrist. A direct blow to the wrist may injure ligaments. Symptoms Pain, swelling, or weakness in the wrist. There can occasionally be a sense of 'popping' or 'slipping' inside the wrist. Symptoms are generally worse with activity, such as gripping, squeezing, and lifting.
Physical Findings Tenderness over specific wrist ligaments.
Swelling, loss of motion, and weakness. Certain special tests are suggestive of specific ligament injuries. Workup History, physical examination, and x-rays are required. An injection of local anesthetic into the area is helpful in confirming the diagnosis. Rarely, an MR scan or arthrogram is obtained.