Hand Muscle Pain and Finger Mobility Issues - Neurology

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It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort and mobility issues in your right hand, particularly affecting your thumb and pinky finger. Given your involvement in a physically demanding activity like a student drill team, it's not uncommon for athletes to develop musculoskeletal issues due to repetitive strain or overuse injuries.
From your description, it seems you may be dealing with a condition known as "De Quervain's tenosynovitis," which is characterized by pain along the thumb side of the wrist and can affect the ability to move the thumb and fingers. This condition occurs when the tendons around the base of the thumb become irritated or inflamed. The pain can radiate into the hand and can be exacerbated by gripping or pinching motions, which are common in activities like holding a rifle.

The inability to bring your pinky and ring finger together could indicate a more complex issue, potentially involving nerve compression or a tendon injury. For instance, if the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the arm and into the hand, is compressed, it can lead to weakness and numbness in the ring and pinky fingers. This condition is often referred to as "cubital tunnel syndrome."
Here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
1. Rest: It's crucial to give your hand a break from activities that exacerbate the pain. This might mean reducing the time spent in positions that require gripping or holding weight.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

3. Splinting: Consider using a splint to immobilize your thumb and wrist. This can help alleviate strain on the tendons and allow for healing.

4. Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore mobility and function. However, these should be done under the guidance of a physical therapist or healthcare provider to avoid exacerbating your condition.

5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

6. Consult a Specialist: Given the persistence and severity of your symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. An orthopedic specialist or a hand surgeon would be appropriate as they can provide a thorough evaluation, possibly including imaging studies like an X-ray or MRI, to determine the exact cause of your pain and mobility issues.

7. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs, focusing on improving strength, flexibility, and function in your hand.

In summary, while it may not be immediately clear how serious your condition is, the combination of pain, mobility issues, and the specific symptoms you're experiencing warrants a professional evaluation. Early intervention can prevent further complications and help you return to your activities with less discomfort. Don't hesitate to seek medical attention, as addressing these issues sooner rather than later can lead to better outcomes.