Wrist and hand injuries encompass a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal trauma involving bones, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and soft tissues that are critical for fine motor function, grip strength, and coordinated upper limb activity. Due to the complex anatomy and high functional demands of the hand and wrist, even seemingly minor injuries can result in significant disability if not accurately diagnosed and appropriately managed.

Injuries may occur due to acute trauma such as falls, direct impact, crush injuries, or sports-related mechanisms, as well as repetitive overuse in occupational settings. Common injuries include fractures of the distal radius, carpal bones, and phalanges; ligamentous disruptions; tendon lacerations or ruptures; and nerve injuries. Each injury pattern presents unique challenges in diagnosis and management.

Patients typically present with pain, swelling, deformity, reduced range of motion, or loss of hand function. Associated symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness may indicate nerve involvement. Careful clinical evaluation is essential to identify subtle instability or tendon dysfunction that may not be immediately apparent.

Orthopaedic assessment includes detailed history, inspection, palpation, range of motion assessment, and neurovascular examination. Imaging plays a critical role, with radiographs forming the initial diagnostic tool. Advanced imaging may be required to assess ligamentous or tendon injury, occult fractures, or complex intra-articular pathology.

Management principles focus on restoring anatomical alignment, maintaining joint congruity, and preserving soft tissue integrity. Stable injuries may be managed conservatively with immobilization and early mobilization when appropriate. Unstable fractures, tendon ruptures, or ligament injuries often require surgical intervention to restore function.

Surgical management aims to achieve precise anatomical repair using fixation or repair techniques appropriate to the injury type. Early intervention is particularly important in tendon and nerve injuries to optimize functional recovery. Postoperative rehabilitation is carefully structured to balance protection with restoration of motion and strength.

Wrist and hand injuries require meticulous orthopaedic management and early rehabilitation to preserve dexterity, strength, and long-term hand function.