5 Common Causes Of Hand Pain Without Injury

Hand pain can be annoying and make everyday tasks harder, especially when there’s no clear reason. We usually think pain comes from an injury, like a fall or a sprain, but what if your hands start hurting without any accident? This can be worrying and affect simple activities like typing, cooking, or even holding a cup of coffee. The pain may start as a small discomfort but can become a bigger problem over time, making it hard to do daily tasks.

There are several health conditions, such as arthritis or nerve issues, that can cause hand pain even without an injury. Ignoring the pain might make it worse, so it’s important to find out what’s causing it early. In this blog, we’ll talk about five common reasons for hand pain that aren’t related to injury and how you can manage them to get relief.

Also Check: Experiencing Constant Wrist Pain? Know What's Going On.

1. Arthritis

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of hand pain and stiffness. It occurs when the cartilage of the joints wears down, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Different types of arthritis affect the hands:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called "wear-and-tear" arthritis, OA typically affects older adults and results in the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the finger and wrist joints.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing swelling, pain, and even deformities over time.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: Often linked to psoriasis, this type of arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness in the hands.

Symptoms of arthritis in the hands include joint pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning), and reduced range of motion.

2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This condition is often linked to repetitive hand movements, such as typing, writing, or using a mouse for prolonged periods.

Common symptoms of CTS include:

1. A tingling or numb sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
2. Weakness in the hand, leading to difficulty gripping objects
3. Pain that extends from the wrist up to the forearm

Wearing a wrist brace, taking breaks from repetitive activities, and practicing wrist stretches can help manage symptoms. In severe cases, medical treatment such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

3. Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed or irritated, making it difficult to bend or straighten the affected finger. The condition is often associated with repetitive gripping motions and can cause discomfort and stiffness.

Symptoms of trigger finger include:

• A sensation of clicking or snapping while moving the finger.

• Finger stiffness, especially in the morning
• Pain at the base of the affected finger
• The finger gets stuck in a bent position and suddenly releasing

Treatment options for trigger fingers include rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and, in severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Also Read: Combatting wrist pain in an office job

4. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the tendons located on the thumb side of the wrist. It is caused by repetitive movements such as lifting, texting, or playing sports that involve wrist and thumb motions.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain near the base of the thumb
• Swelling in the wrist
• Difficulty in moving the thumb and wrist, particularly when trying to grasp or pinch objects.
• A sticking or popping sensation when moving the thumb

Treatment typically involves resting the affected hand, wearing a splint, applying ice, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, corticosteroid injections or physical therapy may be recommended.

5. Nerve Compression or Neuropathy

Hand pain without injury can sometimes be due to nerve compression or neuropathy. Several conditions can affect the nerves in the hand, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness:

• Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to tingling and pain in the ring and little fingers.
• Peripheral Neuropathy: Often linked to diabetes, peripheral neuropathy causes nerve damage that leads to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands.
• Cervical Radiculopathy: A pinched nerve in the neck can cause pain that radiates into the hands.

Managing nerve-related hand pain may involve addressing the underlying condition, physical therapy, nerve gliding exercises, or, in some cases, medical intervention.

Also Read: Why And How You Should Be Strengthening Your Hands And Wrists?

When to See a Doctor?

If your hand pain is persistent, worsens over time, or is accompanied by swelling, stiffness, or numbness, it’s important to seek medical attention. A doctor can help diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Final Thoughts

Hand pain without injury can be caused by various conditions, ranging from arthritis to nerve compression. Identifying the root cause of your pain is the first step in finding relief. Simple lifestyle changes, such as reducing repetitive hand movements, using ergonomic tools, and practicing hand exercises, can help alleviate symptoms. However, if pain persists, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.