Common Orthopedic Hand and Wrist Diagnoses Encountered in the Primary Care Setting

Primary care physicians are crucial in diagnosing and managing hand and wrist pain. As the first point of contact for patients, primary care physicians develop individualized treatment plans, which may involve prescribing medications, recommending physical therapy, providing joint injections, or referring patients to appropriate specialists. By coordinating care and closely monitoring patients’ progress, primary care physicians play a vital role in improving patients’ quality of life and ensuring appropriate referrals and interventions are pursued when necessary. This article will review common hand and wrist orthopedic disorders and help primary care physicians better understand hand and wrist pathophysiology and management.