[46F] With chronic joint pain and intermittent numbness in hands

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, there are a few possible explanations for your joint pain and numbness:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is an autoimmune condition that can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, particularly in the morning. It often affects multiple joints, including elbows, shoulders, and knees. RA can also cause systemic symptoms like fatigue. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and imaging studies.

2. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain and stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity or overuse. It is more common as people age and can affect any joint, including those you've mentioned.

3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: The numbness in your hands, especially when holding your phone or sleeping, could be due to carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, leading to numbness and tingling in the hand.

4. Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition involves nerve compression in the neck, which can cause pain and numbness radiating down the arms and into the hands.

What you can do

Joint Pain and Stiffness:

• Consult a healthcare provider: It's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend blood tests, X-rays, or an MRI to determine the cause of your symptoms.
• Over-the-counter pain relief: Continue using ibuprofen or other NSAIDs as needed, but be mindful of the recommended dosage and duration.
• Gentle exercise: Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or walking to maintain joint flexibility and strength.
• Heat and cold therapy: Apply heat to relax muscles and improve circulation, or cold packs to reduce inflammation and numb the area.

Numbness in Hands:

• Ergonomic adjustments: Make sure your workspace and sleeping positions are ergonomic to reduce strain on your wrists and arms.
• Wrist splints: Consider using wrist splints at night to keep your wrists in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
• Stretching exercises: Perform hand and wrist stretches to improve flexibility and reduce nerve compression.

Remember, you can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Increased swelling, redness, or warmth in your joints
• Severe or worsening pain
• Persistent numbness or weakness in your hands or arms
• Any new or concerning symptoms

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.