“I have a pain in my wrist and I can't hold anything heavy. What could be the reason?”

Could be swollen tendons (tendinitis) or, if you have arthritis, could be a flare up. Try anti inflammatory (advil, etc.), rest and a brace for a few days.

It is important to always seek a medical evaluation by a licensed professional to ensure it is not the manifestation of something more serious. You also want to seek help sooner rather than later to prevent any further damage to the area.

One common problem that makes it hard to grasp an object using the fingers and the thumb is basilat joint arthritis (arthritis at the base of the thumb where it meets the wrist). This joint at the bottom of the thumb metacarpal is known as the TM, or trapeziometacrpal, joint. Arthritis may present as aching pain in the large thumb muscle that is intermittent or severe pain with a pinch and grasp that radiates up the forearm as well as every degree of pain and activity in between those two extremes. Diagnosis is made with an exam and staged with X-rays. Treatment may include NSAIDs, splinting, corticosteroid injections, and, for severe, unremitting pain, surgery.

Could be one of several problems:

1. Wrist tendonitis, i.e., DeQuervain's tendonitis
2. Arthritis of the wrist

You need to be seen by a hand surgeon and get X-rays of your wrist to distinguish between these two things.

There are many potential reasons for your wrist pain. Further evaluation is required. Please see your local hand surgeon.