Hand Pain After Volleyball: Is It Muscle, Bone, or Ligament? - Orthopedics

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When it comes to hand pain after playing volleyball, particularly if the pain occurs at specific angles or positions, it is essential to consider the potential involvement of muscles, bones, and ligaments. Based on your description, it seems that the pain arises when your hand is extended, but not when it is bent or under load. This pattern of pain can suggest several possibilities.

First, let’s clarify what "筋" (muscle or tendon) refers to in the context of your question. In English, "筋" typically refers to tendons, which are the fibrous connective tissues that attach muscles to bones. When you cut through a tendon, you would see a white, fibrous structure, which is quite different from muscle tissue, which is more vascular and has a reddish appearance. Tendons are crucial for transmitting the force generated by muscles to bones, enabling movement.

Given your symptoms, the pain you are experiencing could be due to several factors:
1. Tendon Strain or Injury: If your hand position during the volleyball serve was incorrect, it could have led to a strain in the tendons of the wrist or fingers. Tendon injuries often manifest as pain during specific movements, especially when the tendon is stretched or loaded.

2. Ligament Sprain: Ligaments are the connective tissues that connect bones to other bones at joints. If your hand was subjected to an awkward position or force during the serve, it could have resulted in a sprain of the ligaments in your wrist or fingers. This type of injury can also cause pain at certain angles.

3. Joint Issues: Sometimes, pain can arise from the joints themselves, such as the wrist or finger joints. Conditions like tendinitis or arthritis can cause pain during specific movements, especially if there is inflammation present.

4. Bone Fracture or Stress Injury: Although less likely given your description, it’s still possible that there could be a minor fracture or stress injury to the bones in your hand or wrist, especially if you experienced significant force during the serve.

In terms of seeking medical attention, it would be advisable to start with an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough examination, which may include imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs, to assess for any fractures, ligament injuries, or tendon issues. If the orthopedic evaluation suggests that the injury is more related to soft tissue and requires rehabilitation, they may refer you to a physical therapist or rehabilitation specialist for further treatment.

In conclusion, while your symptoms could potentially involve muscles, bones, or ligaments, the specific nature of your pain and its occurrence at certain angles suggests a possible tendon or ligament issue. It’s crucial to get a professional evaluation to determine the exact cause of your pain and to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and facilitate a quicker return to your volleyball activities.