Understanding Finger Pain

About finger pain and how it is treated.

Are you experiencing discomfort or pain in your fingers? Finger pain can significantly impact your daily activities, making it important to identify the causes and seek appropriate treatment. In this article, we will explore the various types of finger pain, their causes, available treatment options, and preventive measures.

If you’re seeking expert medical care for any discomfort in your fingers, OrthoNeuro is here to help. We specialize in treating many types of hand conditions. Contact one of our multiple locations in Columbus, Ohio today!

Types of Finger Pain

Finger pain can manifest in different ways, and understanding the specific type can help determine its underlying cause. Some common types of finger pain include:

Finger Joint Pain: This refers to discomfort or tenderness in the finger joints and can range from mild to severe.
Nerve-related Pain: Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or compression of the median nerve can cause pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in the fingers.
Injured Finger: Finger injuries, such as fractures or finger sprains, can lead to localized pain and swelling.
Arthritic Pain: Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can affect the finger joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

Causes of Finger Pain

A painful finger can stem from various injuries or medical conditions. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Some common causes of finger pain include:

Injuries: Accidental falls, sports-related incidents, or repetitive hand motions can result in finger fractures, sprains, or strains. It’s also possible to dislocate the finger.
Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two common forms of arthritis that can affect the finger joints, leading to pain and swelling.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can cause finger pain, numbness, and tingling sensations. It can also cause wrist pain.
Ganglion Cysts: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop near joints or tendons in the hand and cause finger pain and swelling.
Trigger Finger Syndrome: Trigger finger syndrome, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is another common cause of finger pain. The condition occurs when the tendon sheath becomes inflamed. It is characterized by the finger getting stuck in a bent position and then suddenly straightening with a snapping sensation.
Dupuytren’s Contracture: Finger pain can also be caused by Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition in which the connective tissue in the palm of the hand thickens and forms nodules or cords, leading to the fingers bending inward and becoming difficult to straighten.

Treatment of Finger Pain

Treating finger pain depends on its underlying cause. In some cases, self-care measures may be sufficient, while others may require medical intervention. Here are some common treatment options:

Rest and Immobilization: Giving the affected finger time to heal and using splints or braces to immobilize the joint can promote recovery.
Ice packs: Putting ice on the affected finger joint can help reduce pain and swelling.
Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and swelling.
Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy: These therapies can improve finger mobility, reduce pain, and aid in the recovery process.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be administered to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief in specific cases.
Surgical Intervention: Severe injuries or conditions that don’t respond to conservative treatments may require surgical procedures.

Preventing Finger Pain

While some causes of finger pain are unavoidable, you can take steps to reduce the risk. Consider the following preventive measures:

Maintain Good Hand Posture: Use ergonomic techniques and proper hand positioning during activities to minimize strain on the fingers and prevent finger joint pain.
Take Breaks: If your work involves repetitive hand motions, take regular breaks to rest and stretch your fingers and hands.
Protective Gear: When participating in sports or engaging in activities with a risk of finger injuries, wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves.
Exercise and Stretch: Engaging in regular hand exercises and stretches can help maintain finger joint mobility and reduce the risk of stiffness and pain.

When to See a Doctor

While mild finger pain can often be managed with self-care, it’s essential to seek medical attention if:

The pain persists for more than a few days
The finger is deformed, severely swollen, or bruised
You experience loss of sensation or inability to move the finger
The pain follows a traumatic injury or accident

A doctor will give you a proper diagnosis through a physical examination and by considering your medical history. Our expert doctors at OrthoNeuro can provide that proper diagnosis along with a personalized treatment plan to address your finger pain.

Get Treatment for Finger Pain Today

Finger pain can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right understanding and treatment, relief is possible. Book your appointment with OrthoNeuro at one of our multiple locations throughout Columbus, OH today! Our experienced team specializes in diagnosing and treating hand, wrist, and elbow conditions.

Medically reviewed by Scott A. Smith, MD

Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Specialists

YOU USE YOUR HANDS, WRISTS, AND ELBOWS ALL THE TIME. DON’T LET PAIN INTERFERE WITH YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE OR INDEPENDENCE. CALL ORTHONEURO TODAY OR MAKE AN APPOINTMENT ONLINE IF YOU HAVE PERSISTENT PAIN IN YOUR HAND, WRIST, OR ELBOW THAT LIMITS YOUR MOVEMENT OR INDEPENDENCE.

James C. Cassandra, DO

Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon

Gary M. Millard, DO

Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon

Scott P. Stephens, MD

Orthopedic Shoulder & Elbow Surgeon

Desmond J. Stutzman, DO

Orthopedic Hand & Elbow Surgeon

“I love this group of Doctors. They have specialists to cover what ever part of the body is in need of treatment. Every doctor i have seen in this practice have had a very good bedside manner and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend this practice for all your orthopedic and neurological needs”

Teresa H.

Patient

(614) 890-6555

Book An Appointment

Locations