Morning and Evening Pain in the Pinky Finger: Causes and Rehab Tips

Q: Morning and Evening Pain in the Pinky Finger: Causes and Rehab Tips

Hello Dolphin Mom： Based on your description of experiencing stiffness and pain in your finger joints in the morning, there is a high possibility of rheumatoid arthritis. <br>I recommend that you visit a hospital's rheumatology and immunology department and undergo fasting tests

Pinky finger pain in the evening and morning?

One morning, I woke up to find that moving my little finger caused pain.
I hadn't bumped it or twisted it, and there was no redness or swelling.
Later, I noticed that in the evenings, whenever I moved my little finger after being still for a while, it would also hurt.
It seems that if the little finger hasn't been moved for a long time, it becomes painful when I do move it, especially when bending it towards the palm, which causes more pain.
At that moment, I feel a locking sensation in the finger and palm joints.
A slight force can restore movement, but the locking sensation persists.
However, after moving it for about 10-15 minutes, the pain alleviates.
It doesn't seem to resemble trigger finger or De Quervain's tenosynovitis, so I'm unsure what the issue might be.
Currently, I am doing rehabilitation exercises for my little finger by bending it forward and backward.
Is this approach okay?

Hai Tun Ma Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/12/19

Dr. Jian Jincheng reply Rehabilitation

Hello Dolphin Mom: Based on your description of experiencing stiffness and pain in your finger joints in the morning, there is a high possibility of rheumatoid arthritis.
I recommend that you visit a hospital's rheumatology and immunology department and undergo fasting tests for rheumatoid arthritis factors to confirm the diagnosis and plan subsequent treatment.
In the meantime, you may apply local heat to alleviate your symptoms before a diagnosis is made.

Reply Date: 2012/12/19

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing with your pinky finger, particularly the pain upon movement after a period of inactivity, could be indicative of several underlying conditions. Based on your description, it seems that the pain is primarily associated with stiffness and discomfort when you first move your pinky, especially when bending it towards your palm. This could suggest a few possibilities, including early signs of arthritis, tendinitis, or even a form of joint stiffness due to inactivity.

One potential cause for your symptoms is osteoarthritis, which is characterized by the degeneration of joint cartilage and the underlying bone. It often leads to pain and stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity, such as overnight sleep. The "catching" sensation you describe when moving your pinky could also be related to the formation of bone spurs or changes in the joint structure that occur with arthritis.

Another possibility is tendinitis, which is inflammation of the tendons that can occur due to repetitive use or strain. Although you mentioned that you haven't experienced any trauma or overuse, it's worth noting that even minor repetitive motions can lead to inflammation over time. The fact that the pain subsides after moving the finger for a while suggests that the tendons may be stiff and require some movement to loosen up.

Given that you are performing flexion and extension exercises for your pinky, this can be beneficial as long as you are not exacerbating the pain. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness. However, it is crucial to listen to your body; if the exercises cause increased pain, it may be wise to modify them or take a break.

In terms of rehabilitation, here are some tips that may help alleviate your symptoms:
1. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm compress to your pinky before performing exercises can help relax the muscles and tendons, making movement easier and less painful.

2. Gentle Range of Motion Exercises: Continue with gentle flexion and extension exercises. You might also try moving your pinky in circles to promote flexibility.

3. Rest and Ice: If you experience pain after exercising, consider resting your finger and applying ice to reduce any inflammation.

4. Ergonomic Adjustments: If you engage in activities that require significant use of your hands, such as typing or playing an instrument, ensure that your posture and hand positioning are ergonomic to reduce strain.

5. Consult a Specialist: If the pain persists or worsens, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, such as a rheumatologist or an orthopedic specialist. They can provide a thorough examination and possibly imaging studies to rule out any underlying conditions.

6. Physical Therapy: If recommended, physical therapy can provide tailored exercises and treatments to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve overall function.

In conclusion, while your current self-rehabilitation efforts are a good start, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes, such as swelling, increased pain, or difficulty moving the finger, seeking medical advice would be prudent. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and prevent further complications.

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