Hand pain is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from overuse to underlying medical conditions. If you are experiencing hand pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage and improve your quality of life. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of hand pain and the available treatment options.

Causes of Hand Pain

Overuse: Repetitive motions such as typing, playing musical instruments, and using handheld tools can cause hand pain. These activities can cause strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the hand, leading to pain and discomfort.

Arthritis: Arthritis is a common condition that can affect the joints in the hand, causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that affects the hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed. The compression can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand.

Trigger Finger: This condition causes the fingers to get stuck in a bent position, causing pain and discomfort.

Injuries: Injuries such as fractures, sprains, and strains can cause hand pain. These injuries can occur as a result of falls, sports activities, or accidents.

Nerve Damage: Nerve damage can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand. The most common causes of nerve damage include diabetes, alcohol abuse, and exposure to toxins.

Treatment Options for Hand Pain

Rest: Resting the hand is an important part of treating hand pain. This can involve taking a break from activities that cause pain and using the hand as little as possible.

Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

Hand Therapy: Hand therapy involves exercises and stretches that can help to improve the strength and flexibility of the hand. It can also help to reduce pain and improve function.

Injections: Injections of corticosteroids can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These injections are often used to treat conditions such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat hand pain. This is often the case for conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.

Dr. Nelson – Orthopaedic Specialist in Hand Conditions

Hand pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available that can help to relieve pain and improve function. If you are experiencing hand pain, you can trust Dr. Nelson to provide the care you need to prevent further damage and improve your quality of life.