What Causes the Pain in My Hand?

Some types of pain are caused by obvious problems; sprains, fractures and the like usually have a memorable moment that causes it. Other types may need the doctor to define. Rheumatoid arthritis often attacks small bones like those in the hands and wrists. While most of the treatments are similar, there may be some important differences.

Arthritis: There are several different types of arthritis, but the most common three are gout, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. All three can affect the hands and wrists. They also have three different causes and require some different steps to treat it.

Gout is caused by an uric acid crystals in the blood. When the crystals become too heavy, they get dropped off into joints. While the first attacks are usually centered in the feet, they can occur in any joints. Changes to the diet are one of the many steps to preventing frequent flare ups. Cherry juice and nonaspirin anti-inflammatory medications can also help.

Osteoarthritis is caused by injuries and general wear and tear. Topical pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications are often suggested to deal with this problem. Capsaicin is a good option, as it can turn off the pain signal going to your brain. An extraction of willow bark and gotu kola may also provide some relief. Those allergic to aspirin should avoid willow as they contain the same active ingredient.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disorder and is best treated by your doctor. Many home remedies can interact with either the disease itself or the medications for it.

Carpal Tunnel: Nerves to the hand run through the carpal bones in your wrist. Repetitive motions such as typing, checkers at the market and others who perform the same tasks over and over again for hours at a time are at risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome. This translates to an inflammation of the nerves running through the bones.

These nerves have no place to swell, and produce a bevy of uncomfortable sensations. Symptoms may include pain, a tingling sensation (pins and needles) and difficulty moving the wrist and hands. Getting treatment as soon as possible is important if you want to avoid surgery. This could include wrist braces, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. Topical pain relievers may also be of benefit.

Injury: Sprains, strains and breaks are usually noticed when they occur. RICE is the most often recommended first step after diagnosis. This stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Topical pain relievers such as capsaicin and willow bark may be useful, and anti-inflammatory medications (including willow) will probably also be suggested.

Tendonitis: Tendons connect your muscles to your bones, and are found in every part of the body, including the hands. Like carpel tunnel, repetitive motion may cause the swelling, as can other types of injury. If you have this problem, you will need to rest your hand until the swelling goes down. Ice and medications to reduce the swelling are also a good idea.

You may need your doctor's help in figuring out exactly what is causing your pain. Be sure to tell the doctor what you've been doing that could be a problem, as well as any medications, supplements or herbs you are on. This way, harmful interactions can be prevented.