Have you ever experienced sudden and uncontrollable twinges in your hand? If so, it may be due to a hand cramp.
Our board-certified surgeons at OrthoNeuro have assisted many in finding relief from hand cramping, as well as diagnosing the underlying cause. If you are having frequent bouts with this hand condition, schedule an appointment with us today! We have many offices throughout Columbus, OH for your convenience.
Hand cramps (also known as muscle spasms) are involuntary contractions of the muscles in the hands. Cramping in the hand can be caused by many different things and can range from mild to severe.
In general, muscle cramps in the hand are not dangerous and may seem like they have no obvious cause. However, if they are coupled with other symptoms, it may indicate that there is an underlying cause.
A muscle spasm in your hand can also be referred to as a:
Below you will find several factors that commonly cause hand cramps. These include:
While intense, repetitive hand movements can cause muscle spasms, cramping can also be caused by a neurological disorder called focal dystonia, which can cause involuntary muscle contractions in your hand. Our neurologists have many years of experience when it comes to providing a diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of hand cramping may include:
Hand cramps can sometimes affect a person’s grip strength, making it difficult to do everyday tasks.
Hand cramps usually go away on their own. However, if you notice that your hands are frequently cramping, be sure to contact a medical professional. Your treatment will depend on the cause of your symptoms.
Treatment for hand cramps includes:
Hand cramps can be treated by neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, hand therapists, or a combination of these for a multi-disciplinary approach. Your specialist will let you know the best treatment for your specific needs. It is very rare that hand surgery is needed to treat this condition. However, prevention is the best treatment.
There are several things you can do to prevent hand cramps from occurring. Below you will find a detailed list of options that may help you.
One way to prevent hand cramps is to make sure you take regular breaks throughout the day to give your muscles a break. Any activity involving the hands should be done in intervals, and taking breaks every 15 minutes or so can help reduce the strain on the muscles.
In addition to regular breaks, making sure you’re staying hydrated is an important way to keep cramps at bay. It’s essential to make sure you drink plenty of water, as dehydration can lead to cramping.
Engaging in regular exercise is also beneficial because it helps maintain good muscle health and strength. Exercises that work the arms, shoulders, and hands are especially helpful for relieving tension in these areas. Stretching exercises can also help prevent cramps by reducing tightness and tension in the muscles.
Lastly, it’s important to ensure you have good posture while performing any activity involving your hands. Poor posture can put a strain on the muscles, making them more prone to cramping. Making sure to sit or stand with good posture will help reduce the chances of cramping.
Following these simple steps can help prevent hand cramps before they start, so you can keep doing the activities you love without interruption.
The outlook for hand cramps is usually good. Most cases are mild and can be resolved with simple changes to lifestyle or diet. However, if you are experiencing severe cramps or they do not seem to get better with treatment, it is important to see a doctor, as this could be a sign of something more serious.
Overall, hand cramps can be a minor annoyance for many people, but it is essential to pay attention to any signs that something more serious is happening.
If you are experiencing severe or persistent hand cramps, schedule an appointment at OrthoNeuro in Columbus, Ohio for proper diagnosis and treatment! With the right lifestyle changes and treatments, you can get relief from your cramps.
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