Pain in our hands and fingers is something we may experience every once in a while. Whether it’s from repetitive motion, arthritis or even carpal tunnel syndrome pain can definitely be a nuisance. However, sometimes this pain can indicate something more significant. It could be a sign of an underlying condition or injury that needs immediate attention. So, when do you need to take hand and finger pain seriously? In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs to look out for and when it’s time to see a physiotherapist or chiropractor.
Persistent Pain in Hand and Fingers
If you have had the same pain in your hand or finger for a long time and it doesn’t seem to be getting better it could be a sign of a more severe condition. Whether it’s a repetitive strain injury or an underlying health issue persistent pain should not be ignored. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can create a treatment plan that can relieve your pain and help you recover.
Joint Swelling
Swelling is a common sign of an injury, inflammation, or infection. If you notice joint-swelling in your hand or finger, it could be a sign of arthritis, gout, or tendonitis. These conditions can become worse over time, resulting in permanent joint damage. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can create a treatment plan that can help reduce joint inflammation and relieve pain in the affected area.
Loss of Movement
If you have noticed a decrease in the range of motion in your hand or finger, it could be a sign of a serious condition. For instance, carpal tunnel syndrome can result in numbness, weakness, and tingling sensations in your hands and fingers, which can limit your hand movements. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can help improve your range of motion and strengthen your hand muscles with stretching and exercise.
Redness and Warmth
If your hand or finger is red, warm, and painful to touch, it could be a sign of an infection. Infections can be very serious, especially if left untreated. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can assess the infection and provide the necessary treatment or even refer you to a specialist if needed.
Trauma
Injuries to the hand and fingers are very common, and sometimes you may not experience pain or swelling immediately. However, if you have had an injury to your hand or finger, and it begins to hurt or swell afterward, it could be a sign of a fracture or another serious injury. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can examine your hand or finger and recommend the appropriate treatment, especially if you need medical attention.
Pain in our hands and fingers is not something we should ignore, especially if it persists or worsens over time. If you experience any of the signs discussed in this blog post, it’s important to take your pain seriously. A physiotherapist or chiropractor can create a personalized treatment plan that can help alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life. So, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you are experiencing pain in your hands and fingers.
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!
