[19F] Experiencing hand stiffness and pain

What might be happening

Based on your description, here are some possible causes for your symptoms:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs the length of the arm, goes through a passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, and ends in the hand. The median nerve controls the movement and feeling of your thumb, and also the movement of all your fingers except your pinky. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, often specifically in the thumb and the index and middle fingers. It can also cause discomfort in your wrist and the palm of your hand.

  • Treatment options include wrist splinting, medications, and in severe cases, surgery.

• Tendonitis: This is inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. It can cause pain and tenderness just outside a joint. While tendonitis can occur in any of your tendons, it's most common around your shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and heels.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation.

• Arthritis: Although less common in your age group, certain types of arthritis can affect the hands and wrists. Pain, swelling, and stiffness are common symptoms.

  • Treatment typically involves medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.

What you can do

It's important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, here are some things you can do to alleviate your symptoms:

1. Rest your hand and wrist as much as possible.
2. Apply a cold pack to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time to reduce inflammation.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Gentle stretching exercises may help relieve tension and improve flexibility.

What you should look out for

If your symptoms worsen or if you experience any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to move your hand or wrist
• Numbness or tingling in your hand or fingers
• Signs of an infection, such as redness, warmth or fever

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.