Hand pain is a common complaint that can significantly affect daily activities, from typing to gripping objects. Orthopedic care plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating the wide variety of conditions that cause hand pain, ensuring patients regain function and comfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management and long-term relief.
Common Causes of Hand Pain
Hand pain can arise from several sources, including:
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are leading causes, resulting in joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced motion. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage wears down, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that inflames the joints.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist leads to numbness, tingling, and pain, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
- Fractures and Sprains: Injuries from falls or trauma can cause fractures, swelling, bruising, and deformity. Sprains result from torn ligaments.
- Tendonitis and Trigger Finger: Overuse or repetitive motion can inflame tendons, leading to pain and difficulty moving fingers.
- Nerve Compression or Injury: Conditions like nerve impingement or crush injuries can cause pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Other Conditions: Bursitis, cysts, tumors, infections, and overuse injuries also contribute to hand pain.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Persistent or severe pain in the fingers, thumb, or hand
- Stiffness, swelling, or loss of motion
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Visible deformity or bruising after injury
- Locked or frozen fingers
If hand pain lasts more than two or three days, or if you experience severe symptoms, consult an orthopedic specialist.
Orthopedic Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Orthopedic specialists use a combination of:
- Comprehensive Physical Exams
- Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess bones, joints, and soft tissues.
- Specialized Tests: Nerve conduction studies for carpal tunnel or blood tests for inflammatory markers.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity:
- Conservative Care: Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), splints, and anti-inflammatory medications.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: Strengthening, stretching, and functional rehabilitation to restore movement and reduce pain.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for inflammation and pain relief.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Endoscopic carpal tunnel release or trigger finger techniques.
- Surgery: Reserved for severe cases, such as fractures, advanced arthritis, or persistent nerve compression. Procedures may include joint replacement, fusion, or ligament reconstruction.
When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Seek orthopedic care if:
- Pain is severe, persistent, or worsening
- There is numbness, tingling, or weakness
- You have suffered a traumatic injury
- Home treatments do not provide relief after several days
Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further damage and restoring hand function.
Related FAQs
1. What are the most common causes of hand pain?
Arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, tendonitis, and nerve compression are among the leading causes.
2. How can I tell if my hand pain is due to carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis?
Carpal tunnel causes numbness and tingling, mostly at night, while tendonitis leads to swelling and pain with movement.
3. What treatments are available for chronic hand pain?
Options include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, splints, injections, and surgery for severe cases.
4. When should I see an orthopedic specialist for hand pain?
If pain persists for more than a few days, is severe, or is accompanied by numbness, weakness, or deformity, consult a specialist.
5. Can hand pain be prevented?
Yes, by avoiding repetitive strain, using ergonomic tools, taking breaks, and treating injuries promptly, you can reduce the risk of chronic hand pain.
Step into our clinic for personalized hand pain solutions designed to restore your strength and mobility. Visit https://sccwaco.com/ or call us at (254) 308-7868 to schedule your appointment today, Walkins & new appointments are available.