Joints of fingers hurt: Causes and treatments explained

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Causes of Finger Joint Pain

The joints of fingers hurt for various reasons, and understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment. Some common causes include:

Trauma or injury to the finger, such as dislocations or fractures.
Sprains and strains resulting from sudden movements or overexertion.
Tendonitis, which is the inflammation of the tendon.
Tenosynovitis, the inflammation of the tendon sheath.
Arthritis, a general term for joint inflammation, which includes:
- Osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disorder affecting joints.
Ganglion cysts, which are fluid-filled growths on joints.
Dupuytren’s contracture, a thickening of connective tissue in the palm.
Diabetic neuropathy, which involves nerve damage due to diabetes.
Tumors, whether benign or malignant, in soft tissue, bones, ligaments, or tendons.
Chronic conditions affecting joints, such as connective tissue injuries.
Overuse injuries, particularly in athletes or individuals using heavy machinery.

When the joints of fingers hurt, various treatment options are available to alleviate pain and restore function. These include:

Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce pain and inflammation.
RICE therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for mild injuries.
Physical therapy to improve mobility and strengthen the affected area.
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in severe cases.
Surgical intervention for severe injuries, such as resetting fractures or dislocations.
Drainage or surgical removal of ganglion cysts if they are symptomatic.
Surgery for Dupuytren’s contracture if it significantly affects hand function.
Treatment for arthritis, which may include medications and lifestyle changes.
Management of diabetic neuropathy symptoms to alleviate discomfort.
Surgical removal of cancerous tumors in finger joints.
Radiation therapy or chemotherapy for bone or soft tissue cancer.
Monitoring and possibly removing benign tumors if they cause pain or mobility issues.