What Are the Common Reasons for Hand Pain?
Hand pain can stem from a variety of orthopedic conditions, including:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve causing numbness or tingling.
- Arthritis: Inflammatory joint pain, often due to osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
- Tendonitis: Overuse of hand tendons leading to inflammation and stiffness.
- Trigger Finger: A condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position.
- Fractures or Sprains: From falls, accidents, or sports injuries.
- Nerve Compression or Injury: Such as ulnar nerve entrapment.
What Type of Hand Pain Suggests That I Should See a Doctor?
You should schedule an appointment if:
- Pain persists for more than a few days without improvement.
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or fingers.
- Swelling, redness, or warmth suggests inflammation or infection.
- You’ve lost range of motion or can’t grip or hold objects.
- You suspect a fracture, dislocation, or tendon injury after trauma.
Early treatment is key to preventing long-term dysfunction or chronic pain.
How Is Hand Pain Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination and a detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history. Depending on the suspected cause, your doctor may order:
- X-rays to assess bone injuries or arthritis.
- MRI or ultrasound to evaluate soft tissues like ligaments and tendons.
- Nerve conduction studies for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Blood tests if an inflammatory or autoimmune condition is suspected.
Once diagnosed, we develop a personalized treatment plan which may include bracing, physical therapy, medications, injections, or in some cases, surgery.
