Why Does My Hand Hurt?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Hand pain can result from a wide range of causes, from common conditions like trauma and osteoarthritis to more atypical issues such as infections and occupational factors. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, considering psychological factors can enhance the management of hand pain, leading to better patient outcomes.

By recognizing the diverse causes of hand pain and adopting a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment, healthcare providers can better address this common yet complex issue.

Hand pain is a common complaint that can arise from a variety of causes. Understanding the potential reasons behind this discomfort is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. This article explores the various causes of hand pain, ranging from common conditions to more atypical and complex issues.

Common Causes of Hand Pain

Trauma and Overuse

Trauma, often unnoticed, is one of the most frequent causes of hand pain. This can include injuries such as fractures, sprains, and strains resulting from accidents or repetitive use. Specific diagnoses may vary with age and the nature of the activity causing the trauma3.

Osteoarthritis

Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent cause of hand pain, particularly in older adults. OA can be classified into non-erosive and erosive types, with the latter being associated with more severe pain and functional impairment. Studies have shown that patients with erosive OA experience higher levels of pain, stiffness, and physical impairment compared to those with non-erosive OA7 10.

Inflammatory Arthritis

Systemic disorders, most commonly inflammatory arthritis, can present as hand pain. This type of pain is usually bilateral and may be associated with other symptoms such as swelling and stiffness. A thorough examination of the entire arm and neck is often necessary to rule out proximal causes of the pain3.

Atypical Causes of Hand Pain

Infections and Fractures

Less common causes of hand pain include atypical mycobacterial infections, occult fractures, and bone fragments. These conditions can be challenging to diagnose and may require advanced imaging techniques for accurate identification1 2.

Carpal Ligament Injuries and Tendinitis

Incomplete carpal coalitions and carpal ligament injuries are other atypical causes of hand pain. Additionally, several uncommon forms of tendinitis can contribute to discomfort in the hand1 2.

Occupational Factors

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) and Writer’s Cramp

Certain occupational factors have been implicated in the development of hand pain disorders. Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) and writer’s cramp are well-documented conditions associated with specific occupational activities. However, the relationship between occupational factors and other conditions like trigger finger and De Quervain’s tenosynovitis remains less clear6.

Psychological Factors

Pain Catastrophizing and Depression

Pain is a subjective experience influenced by psychological factors such as pain catastrophizing, depression, and pain-related behaviors. These factors can significantly impact perceived pain intensity, disability, and treatment outcomes. Addressing these psychological issues using a biopsychosocial approach is essential for effective pain management in hand therapy9.