Pain and Stiffness in the Ring Finger Joint

Painlessness in the ring finger joint with inability to flex?

Last night, I suddenly experienced pain in the joint of my left ring finger, making it impossible to bend until today.
In the morning, after rinsing it with warm water, I was able to bend it, but I still cannot make a fist, and the pain persists.
What could be the possible causes? Do I need to see a doctor?

Vanessa, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/07

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Pain in a single finger joint is often related to overuse, typically from gripping tools or performing repetitive motions.
The most common conditions are tendinitis or trigger finger.
If it is trigger finger, the pain occurs at the junction between the finger and the palm, and pressing on this area can be very painful.
There may also be swelling, and the finger may be unable to bend.
Sometimes, the finger can bend but cannot straighten out, and attempting to straighten it can be very painful, with a sudden release like pulling a trigger.
Generally, if the pain does not improve after rest, it is important to see a physician.

Reply Date: 2015/12/07

More Info

The sudden onset of pain and stiffness in your left ring finger joint, especially if it occurred during the night and has persisted into the morning, can be concerning. There are several potential causes for this type of pain, and understanding them can help determine whether you need to seek medical attention.

1. Injury or Trauma: One of the most common reasons for sudden joint pain is an injury. If you accidentally bumped your finger or used it in an awkward way, even if you did not notice it at the time, it could lead to inflammation or a minor sprain.
2. Arthritis: Conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis typically develops gradually and is associated with wear and tear on the joint, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can cause sudden pain and swelling, often affecting multiple joints symmetrically.

3. Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the finger joint, known as tendonitis, can also lead to pain and stiffness. This condition can arise from repetitive movements or overuse, especially if you engage in activities that require significant finger dexterity.

4. Gout: Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause sudden and severe pain in the joints, often starting in the big toe but can affect other joints, including those in the fingers. It is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint.

5. Trigger Finger: This condition occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, causing the finger to catch or lock in a bent position. It can lead to pain and stiffness, particularly when trying to straighten the finger.

6. Infection: Although less common, an infection in the joint (septic arthritis) or surrounding tissues can cause sudden pain, swelling, and stiffness. This is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or redness.

Given that you experienced sudden pain and stiffness, and now have difficulty bending your finger and cannot make a fist, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays, to rule out fractures or other structural issues. Blood tests may also be necessary to check for signs of inflammation or infection, as well as to assess for conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis.

In the meantime, you can try some home care measures to alleviate your symptoms. Resting the affected finger, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (like ibuprofen) can help manage pain and inflammation. However, these measures should not replace professional medical evaluation, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

In summary, while there are several potential causes for your finger joint pain and stiffness, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

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