There are many different issues that might cause pain in our hands and wrists.
Common problems in the hand tendons are a trigger finger or thumb. People who are insulin dependent diabetics can be prone to this, but anyone could get it. It is caused by thickening in the tendon which causes the tendon to catch and “trigger”. People who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis may develop nodules on their tendons and this might cause triggering too.
Tendons may be strained, or even cut and ruptured. A cut or fully ruptured tendon may need surgical repair.
Ganglion cysts commonly appear on the hands. These cysts contains synovial fluid that has leaked from a joint or tendon tunnel. They are harmless and may well go spontaneously of their own accord. Sometimes removal, or work to remove the fluid from the cyst might be necessary.
Fingers and wrists can suffer with arthritis. Most commonly osteoarthritis. This is the normal wear and tear changes that we are all likely to get to a greater or lesser extent. This could cause localised stiffness and pain in the joint effected.
If you have a problem in the hand and wrist area, it may effect the way you use your arm. So problems higher up the arm might occur due to excessive strain placed on them. Even into the shoulder, neck and upper back.
The above is a sample of some reasonably common hand and wrist issues. It is important if you have a problem that you get it assessed and diagnosed so the correct treatment/intervention can take place.
To try and keep your hands generally mobile. Consider doing some simple daily exercises.
OPENING AND CLOSING THE HAND
PRACTICE CONTACTING YOUR THUMB TO YOUR OTHER FINGERS
STRETCH THE TISSUES ON BOTH SIDES OF YOUR HAND/WRIST/FOREARM
Extend your arm out ahead of you with your palm facing up. Gently stretch your fingers back towards your body. Repeat on both sides holding for a count of 10 to 15.
Extend your arm ahead of with your palm facing down. Gently stretch your fingers back towards your body. Repeat on both sides holding for a count of 10 to 15.
WITH YOUR PALM FACING UP. MOVE YOUR WRIST FROM SIDE-TO-SIDE. (THAT IS TOWARDS THE THUMB SIDE AND TOWARDS THE LITTLE FINGER SIDE.)
