Why Does My Hand Hurt?

Possible Causes of Hand Pain:

1. Sprains and Strains:

- Overstretching or tearing of ligaments and tendons in your hand.

- Often due to sudden forceful movements or repetitive activities.

2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS):

- Compression of the median nerve in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.

- Common in those with repetitive hand movements, like typing or factory work.

3. Tendonitis:

- Inflammation of tendons, the cords that connect muscles to bones.

- Common in the thumb, wrist, or near the base of fingers from repetitive motions.

4. Arthritis:

- Various forms of joint inflammation, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced flexibility.

- Common types affecting hands include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Fractures:

- Broken bones in the hand or wrist.

- Can result from falls, sports injuries, or accidents involving direct impact.

6. Nerve Injuries:

- Damage or irritation to the nerves that control hand movements or sensations.

- Can be caused by trauma, compression, or diseases like diabetes.

7. Infection:

- Bacterial or viral infections in the hand or wrist, such as cellulitis or septic arthritis.

- Can cause significant pain, swelling, redness, and fever.

8. Dupuytren's Contracture:

- Thickening and tightening of connective tissue in the palm, leading to a bent finger.

- Affects men more commonly and is associated with diabetes and certain occupations.

9. Ganglion Cysts:

- Fluid-filled sacs that develop on tendons or joints, typically on the back of the hand or wrist.

- Usually benign but can be painful if they press on nearby structures.

10. Raynaud's Disease:

- A condition affecting circulation to the fingers, leading to attacks of pain, numbness, tingling, and color changes in fingers.

- Related to cold temperatures.

11. Trigger Finger:

- Limited movement of a finger due to thickening and inflammation of the flexor tendon within its sheath.

- Triggering or catching sensation when straightening or bending the affected finger.

12. Nerve Entrapment:

- Compression of a nerve due to surrounding tissue, like the ulnar nerve in Guyon's canal at the wrist.

- Can result in pain, tingling, and weakness in the affected area.

13. Peripheral Neuropathy:

- Damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness in the hands and feet.

- Can result from diabetes, certain medical treatments, or alcoholism.

14. Muscle Strains:

- Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers in the hand, causing pain and tenderness.

- Often due to overuse or excessive force during gripping, pulling, or pushing activities.

15. Foreign Objects:

- Splinters or other foreign objects embedded in the hand or wrist can cause pain and discomfort.

When to Seek Medical Attention:

- If your hand pain is severe, persistent, accompanied by swelling, fever, or numbness, or if it interferes with daily activities, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment.