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Hand

Hand

Most problems will start to improve within 8-24 weeks

Hand, wrist, finger and thumb pain can be the symptom of many different conditions. Sometimes it is difficult to know what is causing the area to be painful, as there may not have been an obvious reason. Often they can become painful a few days after doing an activity that is different for you.

For some people their pain may be the result of injury sustained whilst playing sport or from a fall or cut.

Most problems will start to improve within 8-24 weeks.

No matter the cause of your pain there are some simple things you can try to help your recovery:

  1. Rest your thumb/finger/wrist when you can.
  2. Put an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) in a towel and place it on over the effected area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
  3. Use pain killers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen as they can help you to remain active, which helps you recover quicker. Remember to check they are safe for you. If you are not sure or struggling to manage your pain, then speak with a pharmacist. (Do not use ibuprofen in the first 48 hours after an injury as it may slow down healing).
  4. Take off any jewellery around your fingers and wrist.
  5. Stop or cut down activities that are causing the pain – for example; typing, using vibrating tools for work, or playing an instrument.
  6. Wear a splint to support the area, especially at night – you can get these at most pharmacies and supermarkets.
  7. Consider using gadgets or tools to make difficult or painful tasks easier – for example, to open jars or chop vegetables.

Symptoms to check

Click the plus sign to see a list of problems that could be a sign you may need to be checked urgently

Get advice from 111 now if:

  • the pain is severe and started after an injury or accident, like a fall
  • if you have cut yourself and can no longer move your fingers or wrist normally
  • you heard a snap, grinding or popping noise at the time of an injury
  • you are unable to move or hold things
  • your hand or wrist has changed shape or colour
  • you have a very high temperature, feel hot and shivery, and have redness or heat around the hand, wrist or fingers – this can be a sign of infection
  • you have any severe tingling or loss of sensation in your hand and it wont go away

Immediate medical advice is available by contacting NHS 111

Exercises & Resources area

Exercises & Resources

If you already have a diagnosis from a medical professional you may find some of the following links more helpful:

If your pain persists, or you are not sure what to do you can self-refer to see a local physiotherapist who can help you with your problem

Refer