Why Your Wrist Pain Might Not Be a Wrist Problem
Wrist Pain? Here’s What Might Be Happening
This is from a while ago, but I thought it might be useful to share in case it gives you some insight.
My wrist started hurting after a little too much cleaning (yes, apparently there is such a thing). Before you get excited, this isn’t me saying you should stop cleaning—though I wouldn’t argue if you wanted to delegate a bit more!
At first, I assumed it was just from scrubbing too much, but the pain didn’t go away. That’s when I started paying closer attention and realised the problem wasn’t actually my wrist at all.
The Real Cause of My Wrist Pain
The real culprit? My upper back, specifically the area between my shoulder blades (those sneaky rhomboid muscles). Turns out, when those muscles get tight and grumpy, they send tension down the arm and into the wrist. A bit like a badly planned team project—one person slacks off, and someone else ends up picking up all the extra work.
The area between the shoulder blades - the rhomboids
How I Relieved My Wrist Pain
I used a cricket ball to release tension in my upper back—though if you’re trying this yourself, I recommend using a tennis ball. It’s softer and a bit kinder on your body! Watch this video to see exactly what I did.
So instead of just fussing over my wrist, I focused on loosening up my upper back.
What You Can Do If Your Wrist Hurts
The takeaway? Pain isn’t always about where it hurts. If you’ve got wrist pain (or any ache, really), it’s worth checking in with the rest of your body. How’s your posture? Are your shoulders and upper back feeling tight? Are you unknowingly turning yourself into a human question mark?
Pain is often a messenger, not just an annoying inconvenience. Look beyond the obvious, and you might find a solution that actually works.
If this sounds familiar and you’d like some guidance on easing aches and pains, feel free to reach out. Or, you know, just do slightly less cleaning. Totally your call.
Sabrina is a movement specialist based in Worcester Park, UK, helping people overcome pain, move better, and enjoy active, fulfilling lives. With expertise in sports and remedial massage, personal training, and the Emmett Technique, she works with clients to relieve pain, improve mobility, and build strength. Treatments and training sessions take place in her private home treatment and training room. If you would like to discuss your needs, book a Discovery Call.