Do you frequently experience discomfort or pain in your hands and fingers? This type of pain is common among people who use their hands and fingers extensively for work or during their daily activities such as typing on a computer, playing a musical instrument or doing housework. Hand and finger pain can range from mild discomfort to intense pain that affects daily functioning. In this blog post, we will explore the different stages of hand and finger pain, what causes it and how to manage it effectively.
Stage One: Mild Discomfort and Aches
The first stage of hand and finger pain is characterized by mild discomfort, aches and stiffness in the fingers, hands and wrist. This type of pain usually occurs after extended periods of use or during certain activities. The pain is usually manageable with rest and over-the-counter pain medications may help to alleviate the discomfort. It is important to note that at this stage the pain is already a sign that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
Stage Two: Moderate Pain and Tenderness
At this stage, the pain becomes more intense and is no longer just a mild discomfort. You may experience tenderness and swelling in the fingers, hands and wrist. The pain may begin to affect your daily activities and you may notice a decrease in your grip strength. At this point it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause of the pain. A physiotherapist or chiropractor may recommend specific exercises and stretches to reduce the pain and inflammation.
Stage Three: Severe Pain and Numbness
The third stage of hand and finger pain is marked by severe pain, numbness and tingling sensations in the fingers, hands and wrist. The pain may be constant and may interfere with daily functioning. You may also experience muscle weakness making it difficult to grasp objects or hold a pencil. At this stage, it is recommended that you seek urgent medical attention as these may be signs of advanced stages of carpal tunnel syndrome or other conditions that require immediate treatment.
Stage Four: Chronic Pain and Disability
In the final stage, it has become chronic pain, and there may be a complete loss of function in the fingers, hands, and wrist. Inability to perform daily activities such as grooming, dressing, and typing is common. Unfortunately, it may be too late for some patients to recover full function at this stage. It is, therefore, crucial to seek medical attention as early as possible.
Hand and finger pain can occur due to various reasons and should not be ignored. Understanding the different stages of pain and seeking medical attention early on can help you to manage and treat the pain effectively. With the help of a physiotherapist or a chiropractor, you can devise a plan of care that is tailor-made for your specific needs. Make sure to listen to your body, take breaks often when using your hands, and consult a medical professional when necessary. Remember that early intervention is the key to preventing the pain in your hands and fingers from progressing to advanced stages.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
