Wrist pain is more common than most people think — and it’s not just athletes or manual laborers who experience it. Whether it hits you when typing, working out, or even first thing in the morning, that sharp, aching, or throbbing sensation can interfere with daily life.
If you’re asking yourself, “why does my wrist hurt?”, you're not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common causes of wrist pain and what those symptoms might be telling you.
Common Reasons Your Wrist Might Hurt
1. Overuse, Repetitive Strain or Stress
What is likely the most common cause of wrist pain is simply overuse — repetitive typing, lifting, twisting, or gripping, especially in unnatural or awkward positions, can strain the small tendons and ligaments in your wrist over time. This usually heals itself over time given the proper care and rest.
Possible symptoms:
- Pain occurs while typing or using a mouse
- Pain occurs after long hours of gripping tools or weights
- Pain occurs while doing everyday tasks like opening jars
2. Tendonitis (Tendinitis)
Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons — the bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. It often results from repetitive movements, especially if those motions put stress on the wrist joint.
Common symptoms:
- Pain when bending the wrist
- Aching when rotating or putting pressure on the joint
- Swelling or warmth around the wrist
If you’ve been wondering why your wrist hurts when you bend it or why it hurts when you rotate it, tendonitis may be the cause.
What's the Difference Between Overuse and Tendonitis?
While overuse and tendonitis are closely related, they’re not exactly the same — but one often leads to the other.
- Overuse (also called repetitive strain) refers to repeated stress or motion that irritates the soft tissues in your wrist — this includes tendons, ligaments, and muscles. It’s a broader cause of discomfort and doesn’t always involve inflammation.
- Tendonitis is a specific result of overuse, where the tendons become inflamed due to prolonged irritation or strain. It’s a diagnosed condition that usually involves swelling, warmth, and more localized pain.
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is compressed inside the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in your wrist.
Look out for:
- Tingling or numbness, especially in the thumb and index fingers
- Pain that worsens at night or after repetitive hand motions
- Weakness in your grip strength
4. Wrist Sprains
A sprain occurs when the ligaments in your wrist stretch or tear, often from sudden impact or twisting. This condition mostly occurs suddenly and drastically, during sporting activities or by accidents.
You might experience:
- Sudden wrist pain after falling or lifting
- Swelling or bruising
- Pain when bending the wrist backward or forward
5. Wrist Pain from Push-Ups or Pressure
If you're asking why your wrist hurts when doing push-ups or when putting pressure on your palm, the answer could be joint compression.
Push-ups place the wrist in an extended (bent back) position under load. If you have tightness in your forearms or weak stabilizing muscles, it can cause discomfort or even joint irritation.
6. Arthritis
Wrist arthritis — especially osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis — can cause chronic wrist pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Pain may feel worse in the morning or during weather changes.
Why Does My Wrist Hurt When I Wake Up?
If your wrist feels sore or stiff in the morning, it could be:
- Early signs of carpal tunnel or arthritis
- Inflammation from sleeping in awkward positions
- Fluid buildup due to lack of movement overnight
When Should I Be Concerned?
You should see a doctor if:
- The pain is sudden and severe
- You notice swelling, numbness, or discoloration
- Your range of motion becomes limited
- The pain persists for more than a week despite rest
Can a Wrist Brace Help?
In many cases, a wrist brace can reduce strain on the joint and promote healing — especially if the pain is related to overuse, tendonitis, or mild sprains. A good brace provides gentle compression and limits movement, allowing the wrist to rest without complete immobilization.
Looking for support? Explore our collection of wrist braces designed for daily use, sport recovery, and pain relief.
Final Words
Wrist pain can come from many causes: Some simple, some complex, and some unfortunate — occurring in both the wrist and thumb (in which case a thumb wrist brace may be recommended by a doctor). Understanding why your wrist hurts is the first step toward recovery, as the right combination of rest, support, and care can truly make a big difference.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions and create a proper treatment plan.
