What are the most common causes of upper extremity pain. How can you alleviate shoulder, arm, and hand discomfort at home. When should you seek professional medical help for persistent pain. What exercises can help improve upper limb mobility and strength. How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected musculoskeletal health. What are the best ergonomic practices for preventing work-related injuries.

Common Diagnoses for Upper Extremity Pain

Upper extremity pain can manifest in various forms, affecting the shoulder, arm, wrist, and hand. Understanding the root causes of these discomforts is crucial for effective treatment. Let’s explore the most frequent diagnoses encountered by orthopedic specialists.

Hand and Wrist Conditions

Dr. Jung Park, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand and wrist issues, identifies several prevalent conditions:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Trigger finger
• Tendinitis
• Trauma-related conditions (fractures and ligament injuries)

Shoulder Ailments

Dr. Kieran Cody, an orthopedic surgeon focusing on shoulder problems, highlights common shoulder issues:

• Shoulder arthritis
• Rotator cuff tears
• Impingement syndrome
• Frozen shoulder
• Shoulder instability

Dr. Cody notes that older patients tend to experience more arthritis and rotator cuff tears, while younger individuals are more prone to instability or frozen shoulder.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Upper Extremity Health

The global pandemic has significantly altered our daily routines, leading to new challenges in musculoskeletal health. How has this shift affected upper extremity pain and injuries?

Deconditioning and Overuse Injuries

Dr. Cody observes two contrasting trends emerging during the pandemic:

1. Deconditioning: Some individuals have become less active due to gym closures and social distancing measures.
2. Overuse injuries: Others have intensified their workout routines at home, sometimes pushing their bodies beyond their limits.

Ergonomic Challenges of Remote Work

Kraig Bano, a physical therapist and certified hand therapist, points out the ergonomic issues arising from improvised home workstations:

• Switching from ergonomically designed office desks to suboptimal home setups
• Using laptops on dining tables or sofas, leading to poor posture
• Raised arms and flexed wrists due to mismatched table and chair heights

These factors can contribute to shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand pain over time.

DIY Projects and Traumatic Injuries

Dr. Park notes an increase in traumatic injuries resulting from home improvement projects undertaken during quarantine. While commendable, these activities can lead to injuries when people attempt tasks outside their regular routines.

Conservative Treatment Approaches for Upper Extremity Pain

When patients present with upper extremity pain, what are the initial treatment strategies recommended by specialists? Let’s explore the conservative approaches favored by our experts.

Non-Surgical Management

Dr. Cody emphasizes that many upper extremity issues can be addressed without surgery. His preferred initial treatment plan includes:

• Relative rest
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone shots
• Physical therapy

He reports that the majority of patients improve with this non-surgical management approach.

Customized Physical Therapy

Kraig Bano highlights the importance of tailored physical therapy in pain alleviation. A comprehensive treatment plan may include:

• Manual therapy
• Stretching exercises
• Strengthening exercises
• Pain-relieving modalities (heat, ice, electrical stimulation)
• Activity modification strategies
• Ergonomic adjustments
• Assistive devices

Targeted Interventions

Dr. Park concurs with the conservative approach but adds that in cases of isolated tendon issues, steroid injections can be particularly beneficial. He also notes that surgery may be necessary for certain trauma-related conditions.

Effective Exercises for Upper Extremity Pain Relief

What exercises can individuals perform to alleviate common hand, wrist, or shoulder pain? Our experts provide insights into beneficial movement routines.

Comprehensive Stretching Routine

Dr. Park recommends a holistic approach to upper extremity exercises:

• Stretch all muscle groups from neck to fingertips
• Perform exercises in front of a mirror to ensure symmetry
• Consult a physical therapist for diagnosis-specific exercise regimens

Shoulder-Focused Exercises

For shoulder issues, Dr. Cody emphasizes:

• Exercises that focus on shoulder blade positioning
• Pulling exercises over pushing exercises for overall shoulder health

Ergonomic Considerations for Preventing Work-Related Pain

How can individuals optimize their work environment to minimize the risk of upper extremity pain? Let’s explore ergonomic best practices for both office and remote work settings.

Proper Workstation Setup

• Adjust chair height to allow feet to rest flat on the floor
• Position monitor at eye level to prevent neck strain
• Keep keyboard and mouse at elbow height to maintain neutral wrist position
• Use a headset for phone calls to avoid cradling the phone between ear and shoulder

Remote Work Adaptations

For those working from home without access to ergonomic office furniture:

• Use cushions or pillows to adjust seating height
• Create a standing desk by placing the laptop on a raised surface for part of the day
• Take regular breaks to stretch and move around
• Invest in a separate keyboard and mouse when using a laptop for extended periods

When to Seek Professional Help for Upper Extremity Pain

While many upper extremity issues can be managed with self-care and conservative treatments, certain symptoms warrant professional medical attention. When should individuals consult a healthcare provider for their pain?

Red Flags for Immediate Consultation

• Sudden, severe pain following an injury
• Visible deformity or swelling
• Inability to move the affected joint or limb
• Numbness or tingling that doesn’t resolve with rest
• Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities

Persistent Symptoms

If pain or discomfort persists for more than a few weeks despite home care measures, it’s advisable to seek professional evaluation. Early intervention can prevent chronic issues and improve treatment outcomes.

Technological Innovations in Upper Extremity Pain Management

How are advancements in technology shaping the diagnosis and treatment of upper extremity pain? Let’s explore some cutting-edge approaches in this field.

Telemedicine for Initial Assessments

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in orthopedic care. Virtual consultations can be effective for:

• Preliminary assessments of pain and mobility
• Guiding patients through basic physical examinations
• Recommending initial conservative treatments
• Determining the need for in-person evaluations

Wearable Devices for Movement Analysis

Wearable technology is becoming increasingly sophisticated in analyzing movement patterns and providing valuable data for diagnosis and treatment:

• Smart gloves that measure hand and finger movements
• Shoulder-mounted sensors that track range of motion and strength
• Wrist-worn devices that monitor repetitive motions and provide ergonomic feedback

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Innovations in medical imaging are enhancing the accuracy of diagnoses:

• High-resolution ultrasound for soft tissue evaluation
• 3D CT scans for detailed bone and joint imaging
• Functional MRI to assess nerve compression and inflammation

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Upper Extremity Health

Beyond ergonomics and exercise, what other lifestyle factors can impact upper extremity pain and overall musculoskeletal health? Let’s examine some key considerations.

Nutrition and Hydration

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy muscles, tendons, and joints:

• Adequate protein intake for tissue repair and muscle maintenance
• Omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory properties
• Vitamin D and calcium for bone health
• Sufficient hydration to maintain joint lubrication and reduce inflammation

Sleep Quality and Posture

The importance of good sleep for musculoskeletal health cannot be overstated:

• Use supportive pillows to maintain proper neck and shoulder alignment
• Consider a mattress that provides adequate support for your preferred sleeping position
• Avoid sleeping on the affected arm or shoulder if experiencing pain

Stress Management

Chronic stress can exacerbate pain and tension in the upper extremities:

• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation
• Engage in regular physical activity to reduce stress and improve overall well-being
• Consider stress-reducing hobbies that don’t strain the upper extremities, such as listening to music or practicing mindfulness

Preventive Strategies for Long-Term Upper Extremity Health

How can individuals proactively maintain the health of their upper extremities and prevent future issues? Let’s explore some preventive measures recommended by experts.

Regular Strength Training

Incorporating strength training into your routine can help maintain muscle balance and joint stability:

• Focus on exercises that target all major muscle groups in the upper body
• Include resistance band exercises for rotator cuff strengthening
• Gradually increase intensity to avoid overuse injuries

Flexibility and Mobility Work

Maintaining flexibility can reduce the risk of strains and improve overall function:

• Incorporate daily stretching routines for the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands
• Practice yoga or Pilates to improve overall body awareness and flexibility
• Use foam rollers or massage balls for self-myofascial release

Ergonomic Awareness in Daily Activities

Extending ergonomic principles beyond the workplace can have significant benefits:

• Be mindful of posture during leisure activities such as reading or using mobile devices
• Use proper form and tools when engaging in hobbies or household chores
• Take regular breaks and vary your activities to avoid prolonged static positions

The Role of Interdisciplinary Care in Upper Extremity Health

How can a collaborative approach among healthcare professionals enhance the treatment of upper extremity pain? Let’s examine the benefits of interdisciplinary care in this context.

Team-Based Treatment Approach

An integrated care team for upper extremity issues may include:

• Orthopedic surgeons specializing in hand, wrist, or shoulder
• Physical therapists and occupational therapists
• Pain management specialists
• Rheumatologists for inflammatory conditions
• Neurologists for nerve-related issues

Comprehensive Evaluation and Treatment Planning

Interdisciplinary care allows for:

• Holistic assessment of the patient’s condition
• Consideration of multiple treatment modalities
• Coordinated care plans that address all aspects of the patient’s health
• Improved communication between specialists for optimal outcomes

Patient Education and Empowerment

A team-based approach can enhance patient understanding and engagement:

• Provide comprehensive education on the condition and treatment options
• Offer diverse perspectives on self-care and pain management strategies
• Encourage active participation in the treatment process

By embracing a multidisciplinary approach to upper extremity care, patients can benefit from a more comprehensive and personalized treatment experience, potentially leading to better long-term outcomes and improved quality of life.

Let’s Talk About: Hand and Upper Extremity Pain

What are some of the most common hand, wrist, upper extremity, and shoulder pain issues that you regularly see?

Jung Park, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon, specializing in hand/wrist): The most common diagnoses that I see are carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, tendinitis and trauma related conditions, such as fractures and ligament injuries.

Kieran Cody, MD (Orthopedic Surgeon, specializing in shoulders): I see a lot of shoulder arthritis, rotator cuff tears, and impingement syndrome. Other common diagnoses are frozen shoulder and shoulder instability. My older patients tend to have more problems with arthritis and rotator cuff tears, while my younger patients more frequently come in with instability or a frozen shoulder.

Kraig Bano, MPT, CHT (Physical Therapist/Certified Hand Therapist):  One of the most common things I see is that patients are not sure of the origin of their pain. They will often say, “I just woke up with it.”  However, pain is often caused by an underlying condition.  For example, pain in the upper extremity (shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist and hand) can be could be caused by conditions such as arthritis, tendinitis or nerve related issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome or the cervical spine.

Are there any issues that you’ve seen exacerbated during COVID-19 because so many people are now working from home and are finding themselves spending far more hours during the day sitting and typing on keyboards?

Cody: COVID-19 and social distancing has changed everything in so many ways!

Some people are becoming deconditioned because they are not able to get to the gym like they used to, while others have taken this opportunity to work out like crazy, even though their bodies might not be prepared.  As a result, I’m seeing patients who haven’t been working out enough, and others who did too much and ended up with overuse injury issues

Bano: COVID-19 has also changed the way many of us complete our work duties.   People have switched from using their ergonomically designed desks at work to a home work station that may be a laptop on the dining room table or a seat on the sofa.

For most people, a high table coupled with a low or un-adjustable chair causes them to have to raise their arms and flex their wrists to reach the keyboard.  Essentially, they are holding their arms out to their sides at 45 degree angles for an entire work day!  Over time, this can lead to shoulder, elbow, wrist and/or hand pain.

Park: I agree. Typing for extended periods of time at the kitchen counter, on the sofa or on the bed can lead to tendinitis around the forearm, elbow and wrist.  Many people also experience neck spasms and overuse syndrome.

At the same time, I find that some patients are taking advantage of the home quarantine to tackle extensive house projects. While I applaud the initiative, I have seen some traumatic injuries caused by doing tasks that are outside of patient’s regular routines.

For each of these common issues, what do you typically recommend to patients to alleviate the pain?

Cody: These problems can often be treated with conservative, non-surgical care. I always like to start with a combination of relative rest, anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone shots, and physical therapy. I would say the majority of patients get better with nonsurgical management.

Bano: Physical therapy can go a long way towards alleviating pain. After a very thorough evaluation, we can design a customized plan that may include manual therapy, stretching, strengthening exercises, and pain relieving modalities such as heat, ice and/or electrical stimulation. We also look at the activities that worsen the pain or increase dysfunction, and work with the patient to find ways to modify them such as ergonomic changes, assistive devices or changes in duration or intensity.

Park: I agree with Dr. Cody and Kraig. Conservative treatment along with physical therapy is often highly effective. I also find that if the condition is particularly isolated to one tendon for instance, steroid injection can be very helpful.  Sometimes, if the issue is due to trauma, surgery may ultimately be needed.

What are the best exercises to help with common hand, wrist, or shoulder pain issues?

Park: There is not one exercise that helps for all conditions.  However, I generally recommend stretching all muscle groups from the neck down to the fingertip.  I recommend doing these exercises in front of a mirror to make sure that both sides are symmetrical.  A physical therapist can also help create an exercise regimen that is designed specifically for the diagnosis.

Cody: I often find that for the shoulder, exercises that emphasize shoulder blade positioning are usually the most helpful. I often tell my patients that pulling exercises are better than pushing for the shoulder. For example, a row is more beneficial than a bench press, and a lat pulldown is better than a military press.

Bano: There are many exercises that are designed to alleviate pain but ultimately, it is not a “one size fits all” situation. At Fitness Physical Therapy (part of Bucks County Orthopedic Specialists), we use years of experience and knowledge to determine the most appropriate exercises for each patient’s unique situation in order to get maximal results with pain reduction and return to all activities.

Let’s Focus on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common issue that many patients have.  What causes this condition and how can patients tell if they have it?

Park: Although there are some risk factors to developing carpal tunnel syndrome, there is no one reason why the patient gets this condition.  It can lead to numbness and tingling on the thumb, index and middle finger.   Symptoms are usually aggravated at night and by keeping the hand and wrist in a flexed position.

What are the different levels of severity with carpal tunnel syndrome and how does a patient know when to see a specialist?

Park: I recommend seeing a specialist when symptoms are becoming more frequent and ideally, before they become too severe. As the syndrome progresses, patients can experience more severe or frequent numbness or tingling that can become almost constant.  When the condition becomes severe, the patient may also notice weakness, particularly in the thumb. Through examination and imaging studies, a specialist can determine the severity of the carpal tunnel syndrome.

What treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome do you recommend for pain management and symptom relief?

Park: Conservative measures, such as stretches, exercises, and wrist braces work best in the early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome.   I only recommend surgery in severe cases. For example, if patients find no relief with conservative treatments or their imaging studies show severe compression, surgery to release the carpal tunnel may be needed.

Bano: In some cases, when the carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms are intermittent or mild, conservative treatment including stretching, nerve gliding and bracing to prevent extremes of wrist motion can help alleviate pain and numbness. However, when the symptoms (such as pain, tingling or numbness) progress to be more constant or significant weakness develops with pinching or squeezing, further options need to be explored with a hand surgeon to prevent permanent deficits, such as loss of sensation or strength. If surgery becomes the treatment of choice, physical therapy will help with scar management to prevent a thick and painful scar and to regain range of motion, strength and overall function.

What are some of the newer approaches in anesthesia for carpal tunnel surgery?

Park: Because of advances in local anesthesia, I am now able to perform carpal tunnel surgery without sedation (putting a patient to sleep).  Benefits of this approach mean that there is no need for fasting and none of the risks associated with anesthetic drugs.  Patients can even drive themselves to and from surgery.

Let’s Focus on Shoulders

What are the common causes of shoulder pain?

Cody: Rotator cuff tears and shoulder arthritis are two common causes of shoulder pain.

Rotator cuff tears can occur either from a sudden injury, or more gradually over time. The rotator cuff is composed of four muscles and tendons that help elevate the arm overhead. When there is a tear, the patient will notice both weakness and pain with overhead activity.

Shoulder arthritis is typically a gradually progressive problem in which patients will notice both pain and limited range of motion. They may even notice a grinding sensation as the cartilage wears out and the bones start rubbing against each other.

What treatments for shoulder pain do you recommend for pain management and symptom relief?

Cody: This is a great question, because patients are often surprised at how incredibly effective conservative treatments can be. For example, I frequently have patients who come to my office with acute and severe shoulder pain that is often related to bursitis. Patients are sometimes apprehensive about trying physical therapy for a pain that is so severe, but ultimately they are able to return to normal without needing any surgery at all. I love hearing their stories down the road when they tell me they were unsure that physical therapy was going to help them and yet, it truly did.

So, in terms of managing shoulder pain, beyond rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications, working with a physical therapist can be extremely beneficial. With PT, a patient will have an exercise program aimed at regaining range of motion and gradually strengthening the area, with an emphasis on shoulder blade position and stability.

Bano: I agree with Dr. Cody. In many cases, people are able to return to their normal activities with minimal to no pain following skilled physical therapy and continuing with their prescribed home exercise program.   Following a thorough examination by the physical therapist, a plan of care will be developed that may include manual therapy (soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, stretching, strengthening, stabilization of the shoulder blade) and return to activity training.  In the past, I have seen people with severe rotator cuff injuries or arthritis return to their activities of daily living following physical therapy.

What are the different levels of severity with shoulder pain and how does a patient know when to see a specialist?

Cody: We are frequently asked when is the correct time to see a specialist? I would say the time to get it checked out is when pain interferes with your life, sleep, activities of daily living, enjoyment of recreational activities, and/or it has not gone away after trying a week or two of rest and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.  Minor problems often resolve on their own, but if a pain persists, it could be a more serious problem that will require a trip to the doctor’s office.

What are some of the newer approaches with anesthesia for shoulder surgery?

Cody: For shoulder surgery there have been tremendous improvements in anesthesia and pain control. The biggest improvement has been a nerve block with a long-acting, delayed release anesthetic. Patients can typically get 2 to 3 days of excellent pain control from just the nerve block alone. Most of my patients use very little narcotic medication and depend primarily on Tylenol with an anti-inflammatory medicine after surgery.

The doctors and therapists at Bucks County Orthopedic Specialists and Fitness Physical Therapy have extensive training and experience with all hand, shoulder, and upper extremity issues. If you’re struggling with pain and are looking for either surgical and non-surgical solutions, call (215) 348-7000 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jung Park, hand specialist or Dr. Kieran Cody, shoulder specialist, or call (215) 918-5610 to schedule with Kraig Bano, CHT.

Causes, home remedies, and treatments

Overuse of the hand, an injury, and certain health conditions can cause pain in the palm, fingers, and wrist.

A person’s hands and wrists consist of many different structures, such as bones, muscles, and joints.

These structures work together to enable a person to perform various tasks. Hand pain can affect a person’s ability to carry out these tasks and reduce their quality of life.

This article will cover some potential causes of hand pain, possible treatments, and when to see a doctor.

There are numerous causes of pain in the palm.

Injury

Injuries to the palm can cause pain, swelling, bruising, and other symptoms.

Causes of palm injuries can include:

• knocks and blows
• landing on the hands during a fall
• cuts
• burns
• repetitive trauma from sports or other activities

Soft tissue injuries

A person’s palm contains various soft tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Symptoms of soft tissue damage include:

• pain
• swelling
• inflammation
• bruising

Sometimes, a person can initially treat soft tissue injuries using the Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) protocol. The RICE protocol involves:

Rest: Rest the injured area and avoid the activity that caused the injury.
Ice: Apply ice to the area for 20 minutes, several times a day. A person can try using cold packs or frozen bags of vegetables. A person should never apply ice directly to the skin.
Compression: Wear a compression bandage to prevent swelling and additional blood loss.
Elevation: While resting, raise the injury above the heart to help reduce swelling.

If the RICE protocol does not help reduce pain and swelling, a person should speak with their doctor.

Learn more about the RICE protocol here.

Fractures

A person’s palm contains five long bones called metacarpals. These bones connect the finger and thumb bones to the wrist bones. Trauma to the palm can result in breaks to one or more of the metacarpals.

The most commonly broken bone in the hand is the metacarpal that supports the little finger.

Generally, hand fractures heal well without surgery. Doctors can treat broken bones using splints or casts. More serious fractures may require surgical treatment. For example, some metacarpal fractures require surgery if the fractures affect the fingers’ alignment and range of motion.

Symptoms of a fractured hand include:

• swelling
• bruising
• tenderness
• pain
• inability to move a finger
• deformity

When does it hurt?

If a person injures their palm, they may experience pain when:

• lifting things
• holding things
• making a fist
• playing certain sports, such as basketball or golf

Learn more about fractures here.

Overuse

Overuse, also known as repetitive strain injury (RSI), occurs when repetitive movements cause the hand to become painful or tense. Pain and tension from muscles in the arms and shoulders can also radiate down to the hands.

Carrying out repetitive or high-intensity activities for long periods or holding the hands in awkward positions for too long can cause RSI.

RSI can occur in several different places in the hand, including the palms, though it is more common in the fingers or wrists.

According to the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), RSI can cause:

• pain
• stiffness
• throbbing
• tingling
• numbness
• weakness
• cramp

Treatment for RSI in the palm includes:

• identifying the cause and modifying it to reduce repetitive motions
• stopping the activity responsible altogether if necessary
• taking rain relieving medication, such as acetaminophen
• taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen
• using hot or cold packs

A doctor may also recommend physical therapy to treat RSI.

When does it hurt?

Repetitive motions can cause palm pain for a person with an RSI when they:

• grip objects
• push or press with the palm
• do certain sports

Playing golf can cause a person to develop Hypothenar hammer syndrome. This condition occurs when repeated blows from a golf club handle cause blood vessel damage in the palm.

A person should seek evaluation by a doctor before taking any pain medication.

Learn more about acetaminophen and ibuprofen here.

Other causes of palm pain

Other causes of pain in the palm may include:

• carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that causes pain and numbness due to a trapped nerve
• other forms of nerve damage
• infection
• inflammation

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There are numerous causes of finger and thumb pain.

Trigger finger

Trigger finger, also called stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the ring of connective tissue at the base of a thumb or finger becomes swollen.

Swelling of this connective tissue can make it difficult for the tendon passing through it to move. Inflammation of the tendon due to rubbing against the swollen tissue can cause nodules to form. These nodules can cause a sensation of popping or snapping when a person bends their finger.

In severe cases, trigger finger can result in a person being unable to straighten their finger.

Treatment options for trigger finger may include:

• resting the finger
• immobilizing it with a splint
• gentle stretching exercises
• NSAIDs
• having steroid injections
• surgery

When does it hurt?

Trigger finger can cause pain when a person tries to straighten or bend their finger. Tender nodules at the base of the finger may also be sore to touch.

Learn about exercises to help trigger finger here.

Scleroderma

Scleroderma is an autoimmune condition that causes a person to produce an abnormal amount of collagen. Collagen is a protein that helps provide structure and strength to skin and connective tissues. However, too much collagen can lead to skin and connective tissues becoming hard and thick.

Scleroderma can cause the skin of the fingers to thicken and tighten, which can make them difficult to move.

A form of scleroderma called systemic scleroderma can narrow the blood vessels of the hand. This can lead to pain and tingling, which doctors call Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Early symptoms of scleroderma include:

• swollen or puffy fingers
• numbness and tingling in fingers or toes
• joint pain
• weight loss
• hands and feet are sensitive to cold

Scleroderma can also cause sores on the fingers and toes as it progresses.

Scleroderma is a chronic condition with no cure. However, steroids, blood pressure medications, and immunosuppressants can help relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from progressing.

When does it hurt?

Scleroderma can affect each person in different ways. Some people with scleroderma may have mild symptoms, while others will experience severe side effects.

Learn more about other autoimmune conditions that affect the skin and connective tissue here.

Raynaud’s phenomenon

Raynaud’s phenomenon occurs when blood vessels in the fingers or toes temporarily narrow. This narrowing of blood vessels can lead to finger and toes becoming:

• cold
• numb
• blue or white

Raynaud’s phenomenon often occurs due to cold temperatures or stress. A flare-up can last minutes or hours, and pain levels can vary. Once a flare-up passes, a person’s skin may tingle or burn.

Doctors are currently unsure of what exactly causes Raynaud’s phenomenon. However, it can be a symptom of other conditions, such as scleroderma.

There is no cure for Raynaud’s phenomenon. Most people with the condition can prevent symptoms by keeping warm. Some people may find that certain medications or surgeries help with symptoms.

Raynaud’s phenomenon caused by another condition may regress if the underlying cause is treated.

When does it hurt?

Raynaud’s phenomenon causes a person to experience pain in cold or stressful situations. This can include taking something out of a freezer or holding a glass of cold water.

Learn about what conditions can turn the nails blue.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term for damage to the cartilage. More than 100 different disorders can cause damage to the cartilage and pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints.

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that protects a joint wears away over time. This wear and tear cause the bones in the joint to rub against each other, leading to pain and stiffness.

Another common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). It is an autoimmune condition that occurs when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and pain. Over time, this inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage.

RA commonly affects the joints of the fingers and wrists.

Common symptoms of arthritis include:

• swelling
• pain
• stillness
• reduced range of motion

Treatment depends on the type of arthritis but can include:

• physical therapy
• weight loss
• acupuncture
• NSAIDs
• corticosteroid injections
• surgery

People with symptoms of RA may need to see a rheumatologist who can prescribe medications to help preserve their joints.

When does it hurt?

Different forms of arthritis may cause pain at other times. Arthritis may cause pain when:

• bending or straightening fingers
• trying to grip objects
• performing repetitive motions, such as typing or texting
• trying to pinch objects
• in cold weather

Learn more about arthritis in the hands here.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed or squeezed.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• numbness, tingling, burning, or pain, especially in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
• shock-like sensations in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
• pain or tingling that travels up the forearm to the shoulder
• weakness or clumsiness of the hand
• dropping things

Most of carpal tunnel syndrome cases begin gradually and without a specific injury. As it progresses, symptoms may occur more frequently and for longer.

As carpal tunnel syndrome can worsen over time, early diagnosis is important.

Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome can include:

• wearing a splint or brace
• NSAIDs
• modifying activities that aggravate the condition
• nerve gliding exercises
• physical therapy
• steroid injections
• surgery

When does it hurt?

A person may experience pain due to carpal tunnel syndrome during tasks that bend the wrist, such as:

• during sleep
• using a phone
• driving
• reading a book

Learn about the best exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome here.

Other causes of finger pain

Other causes of pain in the fingers may include:

• extensor tendonitis, also known as mallet or baseball finger, happens when a sudden blow causes a person’s fingertip to droop
• ganglion cyst, which is a lump that forms on the finger or wrist
• RSI

Learn about other causes of pain in the finger joints here.

There are numerous causes of pain in the wrist. Some may occur anywhere on the body, and some are specific to the hand and wrist.

Ganglion cyst

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that can develop near joints and tendons in the hand and wrist. These cysts can vary in size but are often harmless and disappear without treatment. Ganglion cysts often develop on the back of the wrist.

Although ganglion cysts usually do not need treatment, they can become painful or limit activity. A doctor can treat a ganglion cyst by:

• using splints and anti-inflammatory medication
• removing fluid from the cyst and compressing it
• surgery

Doctors do not know what causes ganglion cysts. However, they may occur alongside conditions such as:

• arthritis
• joint or tendon irritation
• injury
• changes in motion

When does it hurt?

A ganglion cyst may cause pain if it is pressing against a nerve in a person’s wrist.

Learn more about lumps on the wrist here.

Other causes of wrist pain

• fractures
• injury
• arthritis
• RSI

Learn about wrist tendonitis here.

A person should talk with a doctor for severe, persistent, or reoccurring pain in the hands or wrists or pain that:

• does not get better with home treatment
• gets steadily worse
• does not respond to treatment that a doctor recommends
• may be due to a fall or other injury
• occurs along with other symptoms, such as arm pain, a fever, or exhaustion

A person should seek immediate medical attention for:

• intense, sudden, unbearable hand pain
• a suspected broken wrist or arm
• a visible injury to the hand that causes very intense pain

The kind of treatment a person can use to soothe hand pain can depend on the cause of the issue.

Injury and overuse

It is possible to treat minor hand injuries to the palms, fingers, or wrists can using the RICE protocol.

Thoroughly wash and disinfect any minor cuts and cover them with a Band-Aid or another dressing.

Taping an injured finger to the one beside it can help keep the finger still. This can help the finger to heal and prevent pain from movement.

Anti-inflammatory pain medication can reduce pain in the fingers, palms, and wrists.

Learn about different types of finger splints here.

Arthritis

There are certain treatments a person can use at home to soothe arthritis pain in the wrists, fingers, and thumbs, including:

• using topical NSAID gels
• applying hot or cold packs to affected areas
• NSAID oral medication
• using a paraffin wax bath, which coats the hand in wax as a form of heat therapy
• exercising

Learn about CBD and arthritis here.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Home treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• doing hand and wrist exercises daily
• increasing physical activity and exercise
• weight loss
• stopping smoking cigarettes or tobacco products
• modifying activities that cause or worsen symptoms
• reducing computer use

Learn about natural and home remedies for carpal tunnel syndrome here.

Scleroderma

The following home remedies may help a person relieve scleroderma hand pain:

• keeping affected areas warm
• stopping smoking cigarettes
• exercising hands

If a person finds that home treatments do not relieve their hand pain, they should speak to their doctor.

Learn about ways to quit smoking here.

There are many possible causes of hand pain. They range from injuries and overuse to degenerative conditions, such as arthritis.

Home remedies for hand pain include gently stretching, trying RICE therapy, and taking over-the-counter medications.

A person should see a doctor for severe, persistent, or reoccurring pain in the hands or wrists.

Complex for the treatment of Pain in the hands – pass in Voronezh

Pain in the hands: sources of the problem, symptoms, complications

Unpleasant sensations in the area from the wrist to the shoulder are commonly called “pain in the arm. ” The source of what hurts the hand is an infection or injury to the bone, muscle tissue, tendon-ligamentous apparatus, arteries, veins, nerve endings. Prolonged discomfort requires a visit to the doctor to determine the causes of the pain syndrome.

Sources of discomfort

The root cause of pain in the arm is trauma, infection, degenerative, neurological pathologies:

• elbow dislocation;
• fractures, bruises, wounds;
• rupture, stretching of ligamentous-muscular tissues;
• infected wounds, osteomyelitis, septic arthritis;
• bursitis, spinal stenosis;
• compression of nerve endings;
• osteoarthritis, peripheral nephropathy, tendinitis;
• benign, malignant neoplasms;
• myocardial infarction.

The hand can hurt due to damage to the nervous tissue as a result of a blunt injury to the upper limb.

Clinical signs

In addition to the main symptom in the form of pain in the arm, secondary manifestations may occur. Additional signs of the pathological process are presented:

• discomfort in the cervical, shoulder, back;
• burning in the upper limb;
• sleep problems;
• fever, sore throat, cough, headache;
• soreness in the articular apparatus, muscle spasm, loss of sensation;
• decreased range of motion at the elbow;
• the appearance of hematomas and inflammation on the skin;
• a sharp decrease in body weight for no apparent reason.

There are a number of symptoms that require immediate medical attention. Their appearance signals serious problems, up to a threat to the life of the patient. These include:

• deformity of the upper limb;
• change in the hue of the mucous or skin to a bluish tint – the deviation is best seen on the lips and under the nail plates;
• fainting, lack of adequate response to external stimuli;
• non-standard behavior – a state of delirium, hallucinations, falling into lethargy;
• pain syndrome in the retrosternal space with irradiation to the left side – limb, cervical, shoulder, lower jaw;
• critical body temperature – more than 38-39 degrees;
• upper limb movement problems;
• extraneous sound at the moment of hand injury;
• broken capillaries around the injury site;
• problems with the work of the respiratory center – increasing shortness of breath, extraneous whistling when inhaling, sudden cessation of breathing.

Weakness that does not go away for several days, increasing apathy requires a doctor’s consultation and a full diagnostic examination at a medical center. A hand cannot hurt for no reason.

Possible consequences

Ignoring unpleasant symptoms leads to the development of complications. Common effects of prolonged pain in the arm include:

• loss of mobility of the upper limb;
• chronic pain syndrome;
• problems with self-service;
• irreversible damage to nerve fibers.

Further spread of the infectious or inflammatory process can cause the development of gangrene and the need for amputation of the upper limb. Without certain reasons, there will be no pain in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe arm – there is always the possibility of the rapid development of any disease.

A timely visit to the medical center will eliminate the risk of complications, and good specialists will help solve the problem of pain in the hand in the shortest possible time. Properly prescribed treatment will help to quickly restore the working capacity of the upper limb, relieve insomnia and obsessive discomfort.

It hurts the arm what to do – the reasons if it breaks the arm from the elbow to the hand when pulling the left or right

Pain in the hands can be muscular, articular or neurogenic. In turn, articular pain in the hands can be caused by inflammation of the articular or surrounding tissues of the joint or their degenerative-dystrophic changes.

Pain in the hands can be muscular, articular or neurogenic. Joint pains of the hands are caused by inflammation of the articular or surrounding tissues of the joint or their degenerative-dystrophic changes.

It can be very difficult to figure out the reason why the hand hurts on your own, so self-treatment in this case is dangerous.

The main reasons why the arm hurts are injuries (sprains, ruptures of tendons, muscles, ligaments, fractures), diseases of the joints (arthritis, arthrosis), periarticular tissues (bursitis, tendonitis, epicondylitis, periarthritis), tunnel syndromes associated with pinched nerves , as well as muscle pain caused by myositis, spasms or overexertion of the muscles of the arm.

The specialist of our clinic will accurately determine what caused the pain in the arm, why the arm is pulling, and will carry out the optimal treatment in order to eliminate the problem and restore the quality of life and performance.

Cervical osteochondrosis, intervertebral hernia

Pain in the right arm or left arm from the outside are associated with a problem of the spine – cervical osteochondrosis or its complication, protrusion or herniation of the intervertebral disc. This disease consists in drying, deformation and destruction of the discs separating adjacent vertebrae, as a result of which the height of the gaps between them decreases, the discs protrude beyond the spinal column, or the disc core falls out. Each of these processes can cause pinching of the nerve extending from the spinal cord and responsible for the innervation of the hand. As a result, pain occurs along the course of the nerve, which is felt throughout the arm as a backache from the shoulder to the fingers.

Treatment in this case will be aimed at eliminating its root cause. With the help of acupressure, acupuncture, osteopathy, manual therapy and, if necessary, other procedures, the doctor of our clinic will eliminate muscle spasms, release a pinched nerve, unload the cervicothoracic spine and increase the height of the gaps between the vertebrae.

In addition, treatment with Tibetan medicine methods stimulates the process of restoration of intervertebral discs. Thanks to this, not only pain symptoms are eliminated, but complications of osteochondrosis are also prevented.

Styloiditis, tendonitis, epicondylitis

Pain in the hand, aches can occur due to inflammation of the tendon – styloiditis or tendonitis. The first occurs at the point where the tendon and bone meet, the second is inflammation of the tendon itself.

What should I do if my arm hurts from the elbow to the hand?

In particular, if the left or right arm hurts, it can be radiation styloiditis (pain in the wrist area) or ulnar styloiditis (pain in the elbow area). Also, tendonitis can cause pain felt in different joints.

Do you feel pain in your right arm from shoulder to wrist? With styloiditis, severe pain in the arm, breaking, aching, aggravated by physical exertion, may be accompanied by weakness of the hand. With tendonitis, pain is most often felt in the middle of the arm, elbow, or shoulder, and is accompanied by limited joint mobility, localized redness, and swelling.

Epicondylitis is an inflammatory process at the site of attachment of the muscle to the bone in the elbow joint. As a result Elbows hurt, accompanied by physical weakness of the hand . With the extension of the fingers and movements of the hand, the pain intensifies (the pain may radiate to the palm).

How to treat such pain? The successful treatment of these diseases in our clinic is based on the combination of oriental medicine methods (acupuncture, acupressure) with shock wave therapy, which stimulates local blood circulation and has anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Thanks to this treatment, pain symptoms are significantly reduced or completely disappear, motor activity of the hand is restored.

Arthritis

Treatment depends not only on the localization of the pain syndrome, but also on its cause – inflammation or degenerative-dystrophic tissue changes associated with impaired metabolic processes. In the presence of an inflammatory process, we are talking about arthritis, in which pain in the arm is usually accompanied by redness, swelling, and a local increase in temperature in the joint area.

In this case, treatment begins with the elimination of the inflammatory process, which allows you to relatively quickly alleviate the pain syndrome. For this, acupuncture pharmacopuncture is used. After that, with the help of acupressure and other procedures in combination with phytotherapy, metabolic processes are improved, the outflow of fluid accumulated in the joint is stimulated, swelling is removed, and local immunity is increased.

Osteoarthritis

Unlike the inflammatory process, arthritis, osteoarthritis of the joints of the hands is a thinning and gradual destruction of the cartilage tissues of the joints. The main cause of this disease is a violation of metabolic processes, a deterioration in the production of collagen, the main building material of articular cartilage, a violation of local blood circulation, a lack of synovial fluid necessary for lubricating the joints.

If the hand aches due to arthrosis, then this, as a rule, is accompanied by difficult movement, crunching. With movements and physical exertion, pain symptoms intensify.

Treatment for arthrosis consists not only in eliminating the pain syndrome, but also in improving the blood supply and nutrition of articular tissues, normalizing the functioning of internal organs, the whole organism as a whole to improve the balance of metabolic processes and stimulate collagen synthesis. Thanks to this complex effect, the pain in the hand associated with arthrosis is significantly reduced or completely eliminated.

Bursitis

Pain in the elbows of the hands, if they are accompanied by significant swelling, is most likely caused by inflammation of the periarticular synovial bursa – bursitis. This inflammatory disease is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the periarticular sac – exudate, which causes edema.

Our clinics in Moscow and St. Petersburg use effective methods for the treatment of elbow and shoulder bursitis, the success of which is based on the complex application of Tibetan medicine methods. With their help, the outflow of exudate from the periarticular sac is achieved, inflammation and pain are eliminated, local immunity is increased and metabolic processes in the joint and periarticular tissues are improved. Thanks to this, a stable elimination of pain in the arm caused by bursitis is achieved.

Tunnel syndrome

Tunnel syndromes are associated with pinching of nerves by surrounding tissues, which causes pain in the hand. These diseases, first of all, include carpal tunnel syndrome, in which pain is accompanied by weakness and impaired functional activity of the hand. Tunnel syndrome can also occur in the elbow joint when the radial, ulnar, or median nerves are pinched. For example, the right hand often hurts when using a computer mouse for too long.

Our center offers such treatment by Tibetan medicine methods that can effectively eliminate pain and other symptoms of tunnel syndromes with the help of acupuncture and acupressure, which relieve tissue swelling and at the same time improve the passage of nerve impulses, have a relaxing effect, eliminating muscle spasms.

Scalene anterior syndrome

The main cause of pain in the arm in this disease is muscle spasm associated with cervical osteochondrosis and irritation of the C6-C7 nerve roots. Pain in the elbows in the syndrome of the anterior scalene muscle is accompanied by pain in the neck, muscle weakness, pallor and coldness of the hand. It hurts the hands, the pain syndrome intensifies with deep breaths, moving the arm to the side, tilting the head, and also at night.

Effective treatment of pain caused by the anterior muscle syndrome is provided by the combined use of acupuncture, acupressure and other procedures. In addition, the therapeutic effect is on the cervical spine to eliminate osteochondrosis.

Chondrocalcinosis

With chondrocalcinosis, pain in the hands is due to the deposition of calcium salts in the joints. In this disease, treatment with Oriental medicine shows particularly good results in combination with shock wave therapy.

In addition to calcium salts, uric acid salts and urates can also be deposited in the joints. In this case, the treatment will be aimed at eliminating the underlying disease – gout.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease and may be one of the answers to the question of why the hands hurt in the hands. In this case, the pains are symmetrical in nature and affect small joints. One of the first symptoms of the disease is usually morning stiffness of the joints.