Palm Pain After Injury: Possible Causes and Next Steps - Rehabilitation

More Info

---

Palm pain after an injury can be a complex issue, especially when it arises weeks after the initial trauma. In your friend's case, the symptoms of tingling and pain in the palm of her left hand, particularly when exposed to cold or water, suggest a few possible underlying causes.


Possible Causes
1. Nerve Injury or Compression: Given that your friend experienced a shoulder and leg injury, it's possible that there was some degree of nerve involvement. The brachial plexus, a network of nerves that sends signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand, could have been affected during the injury. This could lead to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or pain in the palm.

2. Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD): Also known as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), this condition can develop after an injury and is characterized by prolonged pain, swelling, and changes in skin color and temperature. Although it is more common in the limbs, it can manifest in the hands and may explain the sensitivity to cold and water.

3. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in one area can be referred from another part of the body. If the shoulder or neck was injured, it could potentially lead to pain in the hand due to nerve pathways.

4. Circulatory Issues: If there was any vascular compromise during the injury, it could lead to symptoms in the hand. This is less common but should be considered, especially if there are changes in color or temperature in the hand.

5. Soft Tissue Injury: Even if there are no visible wounds, there could be underlying soft tissue damage, such as ligament or tendon injuries, that might not have been fully assessed during the initial evaluation.


Next Steps
To properly diagnose the issue, your friend should consider the following steps:
1. Consult a Specialist: The best course of action would be to see a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist who focuses on upper extremity injuries. They can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies such as an MRI or nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function and identify any potential injuries.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy may help in managing pain and improving function. A physical therapist can provide exercises tailored to her condition and help with desensitization techniques if CRPS is suspected.

3. Pain Management: If the pain is significant, a pain management specialist may be able to provide interventions such as nerve blocks or medications that can help alleviate symptoms.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keeping track of when the pain occurs, its intensity, and any triggers (like cold exposure) can provide valuable information to healthcare providers.

5. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it’s tempting to search for answers online, it’s crucial to rely on professional medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.


Conclusion
In summary, the symptoms your friend is experiencing could be due to a variety of factors, including nerve injury, CRPS, or referred pain. A thorough evaluation by a specialist is essential to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes, so it’s important for her to seek medical attention promptly.