Hand Specialist

What causes hand pain?

In each hand, you have 27 small bones, plus a network of muscles and connective tissue that allow you to make precise movements and gestures. Your pain can originate in the delicate structures of your hand or result from nerve compression in your wrist, arm, shoulder, or neck.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are common causes of hand pain. These conditions cause inflammation, swelling, and stiffness in your joints, which is not only painful but reduces your mobility. 

You might also sustain an injury such as a dislocation or a fracture. While hand injuries such as these are common sports injuries, you can injure your hand in other situations. You could develop ganglion cysts, trigger finger, or Dupuytren’s syndrome. 

Repetitive use injuries can cause tendinitis and other problems in your hand. For example, if you have a job or hobby that requires repetitive hand movements such as typing, knitting, or playing a musical instrument, you have an increased risk of hand pain. 

How do you diagnose the cause of hand pain?

The doctors at OrthoCare diagnose the condition causing your hand pain with careful exams. They begin by reviewing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle and ask about any injuries or issues that could contribute to your pain. 

Your doctor carefully examines your hand, wrist, and arm, manipulating your muscles, soft tissue, and joints to feel for inflammation or deformity. They also use X-rays and other imaging studies to examine the inside of your hand. If you have signs of nerve damage, your doctor might recommend a nerve conduction study.

How do you treat hand pain?

After your doctor diagnoses the cause of your hand pain, they create a personalized treatment program to heal your hand, relieve your pain, and restore your range of motion. Depending on your needs, your doctor might combine treatments such as:

• Medication
• Splints and braces
• Regenerative medicine
• Injections
• Nerve blocks

When necessary, the doctors offer surgical treatments to repair injuries, relieve nerve compression, or release tight connective tissue. In many cases, they suggest physical therapy to rehabilitate your hand and help you rebuild strength, range of motion, and dexterity. 

Call OrthoCare or schedule a consultation online today if you have hand pain that disrupts your life or independence.