Stronger medications may be needed to stop a degenerative disease like rheumatoid arthritis.
Corticosteroid injections are an occasional option to reduce inflammation. Heat can ease stiffness while a cold pack can relieve soreness.
If you have a chronic condition, an occupational therapist can teach you how to limit stress on joints when using your hands. During a flare, he or she might suggest a splint to stabilize your hand.
Sometimes surgery is needed. Dupuytren’s contracture, a thickening under the skin on the palm of the hand, can develop into firm lumps that cause fingers to bend inward. Unless lumps are removed early, it may be impossible to straighten fingers later on.
If other options don’t help carpal tunnel and de Quervain’s, surgery might be the answer.
When to see a doctor
Many conditions worsen without appropriate treatment, so don’t delay in seeing your doctor or a hand specialist.
You should see a doctor for the following:
- If you are still having trouble putting a cause to the pain in your hand
- If you have persistent discomfort and swelling in your joints
- If you have predisposing factors such as smoking, being overweight or a family history