Hand Pain and Disorders: Common Symptoms and Clinical Insights
Discover common causes of hand pain such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and osteoarthritis. Learn about symptoms and treatment options through clinical insights.
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Hand Pain and Disorders
The hand, being constantly used in daily activities, is susceptible to various pain and disorders. The following examples summarize clinical evaluations and diagnostic clues based on patient histories, serving as informative content for both the public and healthcare professionals.
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Patient Statement: "I feel numbness and tingling in my fingers after working long hours at the computer."
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Clinical Evaluation: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist leads to pain and neurological symptoms. Early diagnosis, ergonomic adjustments, and physiotherapy are crucial for symptom control.
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Trigger Finger
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Patient Statement: "I experience sudden locking when gripping or extending my fingers, followed by mild pain."
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Clinical Evaluation: Inflammation and swelling of the finger tendon cause locking. Depending on the stage, conservative treatment, corticosteroid injections, or surgery may be considered.
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Dupuytren's Contracture
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Patient Statement: "I've noticed gradual hardening and restriction in my palm and finger bases."
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Clinical Evaluation: Fibrotic changes in connective tissue reduce hand flexibility, leading to functional loss. Management focuses on improving quality of life through rehabilitation programs.
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Tenosynovitis
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Patient Statement: "I feel burning and pain when bending or extending my fingers; it's more pronounced in cold weather."
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Clinical Evaluation: Inflammation of the tendon sheath due to repetitive movements causes pain and functional loss. Rest, cold applications, and specialized exercise programs are primary treatments.
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Ganglion Cyst
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Patient Statement: "I feel a soft, movable swelling on my wrist or finger bases."
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Clinical Evaluation: Cysts originating from joints or tendon sheaths are usually painless but can restrict movement. Observation or aspiration/surgical intervention may be evaluated based on symptoms.
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Hand Osteoarthritis
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Patient Statement: "I experience stiffness, swelling, and limited movement in my hand, especially in the mornings."
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Clinical Evaluation: Osteoarthritis due to aging and joint degeneration causes hand pain. Personalized exercise programs, medication, and lifestyle changes are fundamental treatment approaches.
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