In this ‘hand pain explained’ article, we highlight how this common issue that can range from a minor inconvenience to a sign of a more serious condition.
What is hand pain?
Hand pain refers to any discomfort, ache, or pain experienced in the hand, including the fingers, palm, and back of the hand. While the sensation is localised, it’s important to note that hand pain can sometimes be linked to issues in nearby areas like the wrist or forearm.
For example, wrist injuries or nerve compression in the forearm can radiate pain into the hand, making it difficult to pinpoint the root cause. Conversely, hand pain might also remain isolated and not affect other parts of the body.
Understanding where hand pain begins and ends is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Hand pain conditions
The hand’s complex structure makes it both versatile and vulnerable to injury or conditions that can affect its function. Various conditions can impact specific parts of the hand, resulting in pain, deformity, or dysfunction.
To better understand hand pain, here’s a breakdown of some common problems by each part of the hand:
Bones & Joints
Osteoarthritis, often referred to as ‘wear and tear’ arthritis, occurs when the surface of your joints get damaged, which prevents the bones of that joint from moving smoothly. Symptoms of stiffness and pain most commonly affect the base of the thumb, the joint closest to the fingertip, and the middle joint of the finger.
Osteoporosis, a condition characterised by weakened bones, can affect the hand by increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in the wrist and fingers. The reduced bone density makes bones more fragile, leading to pain, deformity, and limited mobility if fractures occur.
Fingers
Dupuytren’s contracture causes the thickening of palm tissue, which pulls the fingers inwards. The condition generally affects your ring and little finger, but you can have it in both hands. Dupuytren’s contracture surgery aims to restore hand function by removing or releasing thickened tissue that causes fingers to bend inward.
Arthritis at the base of the thumb is a common issue caused by wear and tear from daily activities, leading to thumb pain, stiffness, and deformity. Trapeziectomy surgery removes the trapezium bone at the base of the thumb. This provides more space for the thumb to move so the arthritic bone surfaces do not rub together.
Nerves
Ulnar nerve compression happens when there is increased pressure on the ulnar nerve, usually resulting in numbness in your ring and little fingers. Ulnar nerve release surgery involves removing tissue or modifying structures compressing the nerve to restore normal function.
Wrist
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition where there is increased pressure on a nerve that crosses the front of your wrist. This can cause pain or numbness in the hands and fingers. Carpal tunnel release procedure involves cutting the tight ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, stopping the nerve from being compressed.
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that commonly develop on the wrist or hand near joints or tendons. Ganglion removal surgery can alleviate any pain, stiffness, or restricted movement if they are pressing on nerves or surrounding tissues.
How to tell when hand pain is serious
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is recommended to see a specialist who can examine your hand, take your history, and recommend a tailored treatment plan:
- Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter treatments.
- Severe swelling, bruising, or deformity in the hand or wrist.
- Numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in the fingers or hand.
- Weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
- Pain that radiates into the arm, shoulder, or neck.
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the fingers, hand, or wrist.
- Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus.
- Recurring pain linked to repetitive activities or prior injuries.
Why choose The Horder Centre for a hand pain specialist?
When it comes to hand pain, choosing the right specialist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. At The Horder Centre, our team of highly skilled hand specialists brings extensive experience in treating a wide range of conditions, from minor discomforts to complex injuries.
With state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-focused approach, we are committed to providing tailored care that restores function and improves quality of life. Our expertise in hand and wrist health, coupled with a reputation for excellence in orthopaedic care, makes us a trusted authority in the field.
Don’t let hand pain hold you back - contact The Horder Centre today to take the first step toward relief and recovery.