Is it normal to have wrist pain during bench press?
Oct 17, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Shaolong
Introduction
Whether wrist pain during bench press is normal depends on the specific circumstances. If the weight used in the bench press is too heavy or the technique is incorrect, wrist pain may occur, which is considered normal. On the other hand, if an individual has medical conditions such as tendon sheath inflammation, muscle strain, or carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist pain during bench press generally indicates an abnormal condition. It's important to protect the wrist joint in daily activities.
Whether wrist pain during bench press is normal depends on the specific circumstances. If the bench press load is too heavy or the technique is incorrect, wrist pain may occur, which is considered a normal phenomenon. On the other hand, if conditions such as tenosynovitis, muscle strain, or carpal tunnel syndrome are present, wrist pain during bench pressing generally indicates an abnormal condition.
I. Normal Phenomenon
Bench press typically refers to a pushing exercise performed in a supine position. If the weight lifted is excessive or the form is improper, the muscles, nerves, and wrist joint may continuously bear external pressure during the movement. Meanwhile, nerves and muscles remain tense, leading to tightness in the wrist joint and surrounding tissues, resulting in wrist pain. This is a normal physiological response following muscular and joint exertion and usually resolves spontaneously.
II. Abnormal Phenomena
1. Tenosynovitis
Tenosynovitis can occur at any age and may result from chronic overuse, trauma, or excessive forceful activity. Once developed, it can cause wrist pain during supine bench pressing. As the condition worsens, symptoms may include inability to bend or straighten the fingers and even deformity. Treatment may include medications such as acetaminophen tablets or celecoxib capsules, taken under medical guidance.
2. Muscle Strain
Muscle strain may arise from prolonged heavy physical labor or improper exertion. After onset, it can lead to wrist pain during bench pressing, with discomfort worsening during movement. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets may be used for treatment.
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If a person has carpal tunnel syndrome, wrist pain may also occur during bench pressing. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include topical medications such as flurbiprofen patches or loxoprofen patches, or topical application of Voltaren (diclofenac) to reduce inflammation and relieve local pain. Oral neurotrophic agents such as mecobalamin, vitamin B complex, or dibazol may also be used. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs like ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, loxoprofen sodium, or diclofenac sodium capsules can help alleviate symptoms.
In addition, wrist pain during bench pressing may also occur due to conditions such as arthritis, joint disorders, or nerve tissue lesions—these are considered abnormal. Notably, if wrist pain persists after rest, prompt medical evaluation is recommended. Necessary diagnostic tests should be completed to identify the underlying cause, and timely treatment should be initiated under medical supervision. Daily care to protect the wrist joint is also essential.
