Abnormal Calcification Of The Carpal Bones C1968592
This describes calcium deposits in the wrist bones, which can develop with aging, injury, or certain metabolic conditions. It may cause wrist pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility. Management typically involves pain relief, physical therapy, and treating any underlying condition.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- M79.9
- ICD-11
- FA00.0
- Body system
- musculoskeletal
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Wrist pain
(musculoskeletal)Dull or aching pain in the wrist area, often worsened by movement or pressure on the affected carpal bones.
Frequency: 80-90% of patients
Limited wrist motion
(musculoskeletal)Reduced ability to move the wrist through its normal range of motion, including bending and rotating.
Frequency: 75-85% of patients
Wrist stiffness
(musculoskeletal)Feeling of tightness or stiffness in the wrist, especially after periods of rest or inactivity.
Frequency: 50-60% of patients
Wrist swelling
(musculoskeletal)Visible or palpable swelling around the wrist joint due to inflammation or soft tissue changes.
Frequency: 45-55% of patients
Decreased grip strength
(musculoskeletal)Weakness in the hand and reduced ability to grip or hold objects firmly.
Frequency: 40-50% of patients
Carpal bone tenderness
(musculoskeletal)Pain or tenderness when pressure is applied directly over the affected carpal bones in the wrist.
Frequency: 35-45% of patients
Palpable hard mass
(musculoskeletal)A firm, hard lump or bump that can be felt under the skin over the carpal bones.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Hand numbness or tingling
(neurologic)Tingling, pins-and-needles sensation, or numbness in the hand or fingers due to nerve compression.
Frequency: 10-20% of patients
Wrist crepitus
(musculoskeletal)A crackling, grinding, or crunching sensation when moving the wrist joint.
Frequency: 10-15% of patients
Wrist deformity
(musculoskeletal)Visible change in the shape or alignment of the wrist due to abnormal bone calcification.
Frequency: 5-10% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Dietary counseling and physical activity plan
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Regular radiographic monitoring
Periodic imaging studies to track progression of calcification and assess any impact on wrist function or adjacent structures. Helps determine when intervention may become necessary.
Wrist range of motion exercises
Targeted stretching and mobilization exercises to maintain joint flexibility and prevent stiffness. May include gentle manipulation and ultrasound therapy to improve tissue pliability.
Additional treatment options
NSAIDs for symptom management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce associated pain and inflammation. Treatment approach focuses on managing symptoms when they interfere with daily activities.
medicationSurgical debridement
Surgical removal of abnormal calcific deposits when conservative measures fail or when compression of nerves or vessels occurs. May involve arthroscopic or open approach depending on extent.
surgicalActivity modification
Avoidance of repetitive wrist movements or activities that exacerbate symptoms. Ergonomic adjustments at workstations and during hobbies can reduce mechanical stress.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Calcification Of The Carpal Bones C1968592?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Fahey M, Tippet W. Calcific Tendonitis of the Wrist. J Hand Surg Am. 2020;45(3):235.e1-235.e5.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Management of Carpal Instability: Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline. 2022.
Zhang W, Doherty M, Arden N, et al. EULAR recommendations for calcium pyrophosphate deposition. Part II: management. Ann Rheum Dis. 2021;80(1):20-30.
Sato ES, Santos JB, Belloti JC, et al. Treatment of calcific tendinitis of the wrist: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Hand Surg. 2015;20(2):233-240.
Kransdorf MJ, Moser RP Jr, Jelinek JS, et al. Soft-tissue tumors of the hand and wrist. Radiographics. 2020;40(5):1565-1590.
Liu Y, Wang H, Liu J, et al. Clinical outcomes of ultrasound-guided barbotage versus conservative treatment for calcific tendinitis: a meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023;18(1):45.
Green DP, Pederson WC, Hotchkiss RN, Wolfe SW. Green's Operative Hand Surgery. 8th ed. Elsevier; 2022.
Fitzgerald J, Lawler SM, DiMaggio F, et al. 2023 American College of Rheumatology Guideline for the Management of Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease. Arthritis Care Res. 2024;76(1):10-23.
Medication Comparisons
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy