What’s Causing My Chronic Hand Pain?

Hand pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Chronic long-term hand pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from overuse injuries to underlying medical conditions. In this article, we will explore possible reasons for chronic long-term hand pain and the treatment options available.

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Treatment options may include splinting, physical therapy, and surgery.

2. Tendinitis: Tendinitis occurs when the tendons in the hand become inflamed, typically due to overuse or repetitive motions. Symptoms may include pain and swelling in the affected area. Treatment options may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.

3. Trigger Finger: This condition occurs when a finger becomes stuck in a bent position and then snaps back into place when straightened. It is caused by inflammation of the tendons in the hand. Treatment options may include rest, ice, splinting, and in severe cases, surgery.

4. Arthritis: Arthritis is a common condition that causes joint pain and stiffness. In the hands, it can affect the joints in the fingers and thumbs. Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.

5. Dupuytren’s Contracture: This condition occurs when the tissue underneath the skin in the hand thickens and tightens, causing the fingers to curl inward. Treatment options may include physical therapy and in severe cases, surgery.

6. Ganglion Cysts: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on the tendons or joints in the hand. They may cause pain and discomfort. Treatment options may include rest, ice, aspiration (removing the fluid with a needle), or surgery.

7. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: This condition occurs when the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist become inflamed. It may cause pain and swelling in the wrist and thumb. Treatment options may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications.

8. Fractures: Fractures in the hand can cause chronic long-term pain if not properly treated. Treatment options may include casting or surgery.

9. Raynaud’s Disease: This condition causes the blood vessels in the fingers and toes to constrict, causing pain, numbness, and tingling. Treatment options may include medications and lifestyle changes to avoid triggers.

If you are experiencing chronic long-term hand pain, it is important to meet with an orthopedic hand specialist at Boston Orthopedic and Spine to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.