Hand Pain – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Understanding Hand Pain Causes, Symptoms, and treatments

Palm massage. Physical therapist doing massage of client's hand

What Are The Sources Of Hand Pain

There are many potential sources of hand pain, and the specific cause can vary from person to person. Some common causes of hand pain include:

  • Arthritis: Arthritis is a common cause of hand pain, and it can cause inflammation and stiffness in the joints. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hands, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed. This can cause hand pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers.

  • Tendinitis: Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons, which are the fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. Tendinitis of the hand can be caused by repetitive strain or overuse, and it can cause pain and stiffness in the hand and fingers.

  • Fractures: Fractures, or broken bones, can cause hand pain. Hand fractures can occur due to trauma, such as a fall or a sports injury, or they can result from osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones and makes them more prone to fractures.

  • Sprains: A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament, which is a fibrous tissue that connects bones. Hand sprains can occur due to trauma, such as a fall or sports injury, and they can cause pain, swelling, and bruising in the affected hand.

  • Other conditions: Other potential causes of hand pain include nerve damage, infection, and certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or lupus.

If you are experiencing hand pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They can perform a physical examination, order tests, and make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and medical history.

Hand Pain Relief

If you are experiencing hand pain, there are several self-care measures you can try to relieve your symptoms and improve your daily functioning:

  1. Rest your hands: If your hand pain is due to overuse or an injury, it is important to allow your hands time to heal. Try to avoid activities that exacerbate your hand pain, and take frequent breaks to give your hands a rest.

  2. Use assistive devices: There are a variety of assistive devices available that can make daily tasks easier if you have hand pain. For example, you may find it helpful to use tools with larger handles or grip aids to make grasping objects easier.

  3. Practice good hand hygiene: Proper hand hygiene is important for preventing the spread of illness and infection, and it can also help to reduce hand pain. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer when you are on the go.

  4. Stretch your hands: Stretching your hands and fingers can help to improve flexibility and reduce hand pain. Try gently stretching your fingers and wrists several times a day to help maintain mobility.

  5. Apply cold or heat: Applying cold or heat to your hands can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. Try using a cold pack or heating pad to help manage your hand pain.

  6. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.

  7. Take over-the-counter pain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and relieve hand pain. Follow the dosage instructions on the package or consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

It is important to note that these self-care measures may not be suitable for everyone, and they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing persistent or severe hand pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They may recommend medications, physical therapy, or other treatments to manage your symptoms.

Hand Pain Locations

Hand pain can occur in various locations and can have different meanings depending on the specific cause. Here are some common locations of hand pain and potential causes:

  • Pain in the wrist: Pain in the wrist can be caused by a variety of conditions, including wrist fractures, sprains, tendonitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Pain in the palm of the hand: Pain in the palm of the hand can be caused by conditions such as arthritis, ganglion cysts, and hand fractures.
  • Pain in the fingers: Pain in the fingers can be caused by conditions such as arthritis, trigger finger, and fractures.
  • Pain in the thumb: Pain in the thumb can be caused by conditions such as thumb fractures, sprains, and arthritis.

It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the many potential causes of hand pain. If you are experiencing hand pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They can perform a physical examination, order tests, and make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and medical history.

Hand Pain from Typing

Hand pain from typing is a common issue that can occur due to repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries are caused by the repetitive movements and stress that typing places on the hands and wrists.

If you are experiencing hand pain from typing, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms and improve your daily functioning:

  1. Take frequent breaks: It is important to take breaks from typing to give your hands a rest and allow them to recover. Try to take a break every 20-30 minutes to stretch your hands and wrists and to give them a rest.

  2. Use good typing posture: Proper typing posture can help to reduce stress on your hands and wrists. Keep your elbows close to your body, and position your keyboard and mouse at elbow height to avoid awkward hand and wrist positions.

  3. Use ergonomic equipment: Ergonomic equipment, such as an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, can help to reduce the strain on your hands and wrists while typing.

  4. Stretch your hands and wrists: Stretching your hands and wrists can help to improve flexibility and reduce hand pain. Try gently stretching your fingers and wrists several times a day to help maintain mobility.

  5. Apply cold or heat: Applying cold or heat to your hands can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. Try using a cold pack or heating pad to help manage your hand pain.

  6. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.

  7. Take over-the-counter pain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and relieve hand pain. Follow the dosage instructions on the package or consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

 

If you are experiencing persistent or severe hand pain from typing, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They may recommend medications, physical therapy, or other treatments to manage your symptoms.

In addition to these self-care measures, it is also important to take steps to prevent hand pain from typing in the first place. This may involve using ergonomic equipment, taking frequent breaks, and practicing good typing posture. By taking these steps, you can help to reduce the risk of hand pain from typing and maintain good hand health.

Hand Pain From Using A Mouse

Hand pain from using a mouse is a common issue that can occur due to repetitive strain injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome. These injuries are caused by the repetitive movements and stress that using a mouse places on the hands and wrists.

If you are experiencing hand pain from using a mouse, there are several steps you can take to manage your symptoms and improve your daily functioning:

  1. Take frequent breaks: It is important to take breaks from using a mouse to give your hands a rest and allow them to recover. Try to take a break every 20-30 minutes to stretch your hands and wrists and to give them a rest.

  2. Use good mouse posture: Proper mouse posture can help to reduce stress on your hands and wrists. Keep your elbows close to your body, and position your mouse at elbow height to avoid awkward hand and wrist positions.

  3. Use an ergonomic mouse: An ergonomic mouse is designed to fit the shape of your hand and reduce strain on your wrist. It can be helpful to switch to an ergonomic mouse if you are experiencing hand pain from using a traditional mouse.

  4. Stretch your hands and wrists: Stretching your hands and wrists can help to improve flexibility and reduce hand pain. Try gently stretching your fingers and wrists several times a day to help maintain mobility.

  5. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.

  6. Apply cold or heat: Applying cold or heat to your hands can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. Try using a cold pack or heating pad to help manage your hand pain.

  7. Take over-the-counter pain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can help to reduce inflammation and relieve hand pain. Follow the dosage instructions on the package or consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.

If you are experiencing persistent or severe hand pain from using a mouse, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. They may recommend medications, physical therapy, or other treatments to manage your symptoms.

In addition to these self-care measures, it is also important to take steps to prevent hand pain from using a mouse in the first place. This may involve using an ergonomic mouse, taking frequent breaks, and practicing good mouse posture. By taking these steps, you can help to reduce the risk of hand pain from using a mouse and maintain good hand health.

Causes of Hand Pain

There are many potential causes of hand pain, and the exact cause can vary depending on the individual and their specific situation. Some of the most common causes of hand pain include injuries, overuse, and conditions that affect the bones, joints, and other tissues in the hand. Arthritis is a common cause of hand pain, particularly in older individuals. Other potential causes of hand pain include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and nerve damage. In some cases, hand pain can also be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, such as an infection or a tumor. It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How To Treat Arthritis of the Hands

Treatment for arthritis of the hands may involve a combination of approaches, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some common treatments for arthritis of the hands include:

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications or other medications, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologic response modifiers, to slow the progression of the disease.
  2. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.
  3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you learn exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your hands and reduce pain.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your daily activities and the way you use your hands can help reduce stress on your joints and alleviate pain. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid activities that put excessive strain on your hands, such as using a manual can opener or gripping a heavy object.
  5. Assistive devices: Using assistive devices, such as splints or hand grips, can help protect your joints and make daily activities easier.
  6. Surgery: In some cases, arthritis of the hands may require surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem. For example, surgery may be necessary to repair a damaged joint or to fuse bones together to improve stability and reduce pain.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Hand Pain?

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome may involve a combination of approaches, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some common treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications or other medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
  2. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.
  3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you learn exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your hand and reduce pain.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your daily activities and the way you use your hands can help reduce stress on your wrist and alleviate pain. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend that you take regular breaks and avoid activities that put excessive strain on your wrist, such as typing on a keyboard for extended periods of time.
  5. Assistive devices: Using assistive devices, such as wrist splints or hand grips, can help protect your wrist and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
  6. Surgery: In some cases, carpal tunnel syndrome may require surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem. For example, surgery may be necessary to release the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to Treat Tendonitis Hand Pain?

Treatment for tendonitis in the hands may involve a combination of approaches, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some common treatments for tendonitis in the hands include:

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications or other medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation.
  2. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.
  3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you learn exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your hand and reduce pain.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your daily activities and the way you use your hands can help reduce stress on your tendons and alleviate pain. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid activities that put excessive strain on your hands, such as gripping a heavy object or using a manual can opener.
  5. Assistive devices: Using assistive devices, such as splints or hand grips, can help protect your tendons and make daily activities easier.
  6. Surgery: In some cases, tendonitis in the hands may require surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem. For example, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn tendon or to remove a bone spur that is pressing on the tendon.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to Treat Nerve Damage Hand Pain

Treatment for nerve damage pain in the hands may involve a combination of approaches, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some common treatments for nerve damage pain in the hands include:

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications or other medications, such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants, to help manage nerve pain.
  2. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.
  3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you learn exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your hand and reduce pain.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your daily activities and the way you use your hands can help reduce stress on your nerves and alleviate pain. For example, your healthcare provider may recommend that you avoid activities that put excessive strain on your hands, such as gripping a heavy object or using a manual can opener.
  5. Assistive devices: Using assistive devices, such as splints or hand grips, can help protect your nerves and make daily activities easier.
  6. Surgery: In some cases, nerve damage pain in the hands may require surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem. For example, surgery may be necessary to repair a damaged nerve or to remove a tumor that is pressing on a nerve.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to General Treat Hand Pain

Treatment for hand pain will depend on the underlying cause of the pain. In many cases, treatment may involve a combination of approaches, such as medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Some common treatments for hand pain include:

  1. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and swelling. In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe stronger pain medications or other medications to treat the underlying cause of your hand pain.
  2. Apply PURE Pain Relief Balm: Applying Pure CBD Pain Relief Balm to reduce pain and inflammation directly on the affected hand at the source of the pain.
  3. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you learn exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your hand and reduce pain.
  4. Lifestyle changes: Making changes to your daily activities and the way you use your hands can help reduce stress on your hands and alleviate pain. For example, if your hand pain is caused by overuse, your healthcare provider may recommend that you take regular breaks and avoid activities that put excessive strain on your hands.
  5. Surgery: In some cases, hand pain may require surgical intervention to correct the underlying problem. For example, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn tendon or to relieve pressure on a nerve in the hand.

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hand pain, as they can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

How to use Pure CBD Balm to Relieve Hand Pain

Pure CBD cream is a maximum strength topical product that is applied directly to the skin to help reduce pain and inflammation. To use Pure CBD cream to treat hand pain, follow these steps:

  1. Wash your hands with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
  2. Apply a small amount of Pure CBD cream to the affected area of your hand.
  3. Gently rub the cream into the skin until it is fully absorbed.
  4. Repeat the process as needed throughout the day to manage pain and inflammation.

It’s important to follow the instructions on the product label before using CBD cream to treat hand pain. Keep hands away from eyes for a while after applying Pure CBD pain relief balm to avoid the menthol getting into your eyes.

Exercises for People with Hand Pain

If you have hand pain, it is important to avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort. However, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve range of motion and reduce pain. Some exercises that may be helpful for people with hand pain include:

  • Finger stretches: Hold your hand out in front of you with your fingers straight. Gently bend each finger down toward your palm, stretching the muscles in the fingers and hand.
  • Wrist flexor stretches: Hold your arm out in front of you with your palm facing up. Use your other hand to gently pull your fingers back toward your body, stretching the muscles in the forearm.
  • Wrist extensor stretches: Hold your arm out in front of you with your palm facing down. Use your other hand to gently push your fingers back toward your body, stretching the muscles in the forearm.
  • Thumb stretches: Hold your hand out in front of you with your fingers straight. Gently bend your thumb down toward your palm, stretching the muscles in the thumb and hand.
  • Forearm curls: Hold a light weight or can in your hand with your palm facing up. Slowly curl your wrist up toward your body, then slowly lower it back down.

It is important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your exercises as your hand pain improves. It is also important to listen to your body and stop if you experience any pain or discomfort. It is always a good idea to talk to a doctor or physical therapist before starting a new exercise program. They can provide guidance and advice on which exercises are safe and appropriate for you.