Relieving Hand Joint Pain: Effective Treatments and Exercises

Hand joints

Hello Dr.
Lee: Here is my work content: Quality inspection of hardware edges – removing burrs with a needle.
Recently, I have been experiencing significant pain in my hand joints after working until the afternoon.
I am unsure if this is due to holding tools for too long.
My neck also feels stiff, and I am not accustomed to changing positions.

1.
I would like to ask what treatment options or relief methods you would recommend.

2.
What hand joint relief exercises can I perform?
3.
What condition might my situation indicate?
Thank you in advance for your answers, Dr.
Lee.
I appreciate it!

Kai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/10

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation

1.
You can try to avoid maintaining the same posture for too long, and after work, you can soak in warm water to relax the fascia and improve circulation.
2.
Given your age, it seems more likely to be a fascia-related issue.

Reply Date: 2022/04/10

More Info

Hello! Thank you for your inquiry regarding your hand joint pain and discomfort. Based on your description, it seems that your work involves repetitive gripping and fine motor tasks, which can lead to strain and discomfort in the hand joints, as well as tension in the neck. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Treatment Options for Hand Joint Pain:
To relieve your hand joint pain, several treatment options can be considered. First, it’s essential to ensure that you take regular breaks during your work to avoid prolonged strain on your hands. Ergonomic adjustments to your workstation can also help; for instance, using tools that require less grip strength or adjusting your chair and desk height can reduce strain.
In terms of medical treatments, you might consider over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen to help reduce pain and inflammation. If the pain persists, consulting a healthcare professional for a more tailored treatment plan, which may include physical therapy, is advisable. Physical therapists can provide specific exercises and modalities to help alleviate pain and improve function.

2. Hand Joint Relief Exercises:
There are several exercises you can perform to help relieve discomfort in your hand joints. Here are a few you might find beneficial:
- Finger Stretch: Extend your fingers as wide as possible and hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat this several times.

- Wrist Flexor Stretch: Extend one arm in front of you with your palm facing up. Use your other hand to gently pull back on your fingers, stretching the wrist and forearm. Hold for 15-30 seconds and switch hands.

- Wrist Rotations: With your elbows bent and hands in front of you, rotate your wrists in circles, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. This can help improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

- Grip Strengthening: Use a stress ball or a soft rubber ball to perform gentle squeezing exercises. This can help strengthen the muscles around your joints and improve overall hand function.

3. Possible Conditions:
Your symptoms may indicate a few potential conditions. Repetitive strain injuries, such as tendinitis or carpal tunnel syndrome, are common in individuals who perform repetitive tasks. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Additionally, if you are experiencing neck pain, it may be related to poor posture or muscle tension due to your work activities.
It’s also worth considering that conditions such as arthritis can cause joint pain, especially if there is a family history of such diseases. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it would be prudent to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.

In conclusion, addressing your hand joint pain involves a combination of ergonomic adjustments, regular breaks, appropriate exercises, and possibly medical treatments. Listening to your body and making necessary adjustments to your work habits can significantly improve your comfort and functionality. If symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and tailored treatment. Thank you for reaching out, and I hope you find relief soon!

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