Successful treatment of wrist pain secondary to injury or disease is s
trongly influenced by prompt determination of the correct diagnosis. T
he authors have found that a systematic, structured approach consistin
g of a detailed history and a thorough physical examination supplement
ed with the most appropriate imaging modalities will accurately establ
ish the diagnosis in almost all patients. By assisting the surgeon in
diagnosing the cause of wrist pain as quickly as possible, an algorith
mic approach can greatly minimize disability, medical costs, and time
lost from work.