Unravelling ulna-sided wrist pain

Abstract

Ulna-sided wrist pain is a common presenting condition, however the unique and complex anatomy of that area presents wide-ranging diagnostic challenges. Ulnar-sided wrist pain can be due to: bony, cartilaginous or ligamentous injury; joint instability in the carpus or distal radioulnar joint; bony impingement; nerve compression; tendon dysfunction or arthritis. The aim of this review article is to detail the important relevant anatomy and the associated pathoanatomy in order to understand the conditions; and to highlight relevant history, examination findings, and investigations that can help decipher the problem and make a correct diagnosis.