Accurate diagnosis of hand pain is the first step toward effective treatment. Medical professionals use a variety of methods to pinpoint the cause of your discomfort and create a tailored treatment plan.

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and daily activities that might contribute to your hand pain. A thorough physical examination of your hand, wrist, and arm will help identify signs of swelling, tenderness, or deformities. Simple tests, like moving your fingers or gripping objects, can also reveal underlying issues.

2. Imaging Tests: If needed, your doctor may recommend imaging tests to get a closer look at your bones, joints, and soft tissues. X-rays can reveal fractures, arthritis, or bone spurs, while MRIs and CT scans provide detailed images of the tendons, ligaments, and nerves, helping to diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, or nerve compression.

3. Electrodiagnostic Tests: For symptoms suggesting nerve damage or compression, such as numbness or tingling, nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) may be performed. These tests measure the electrical activity in your muscles and nerves, helping to identify issues like carpal tunnel syndrome or peripheral neuropathy.

4. Blood Tests: In cases where arthritis or an inflammatory condition is suspected, blood tests may be ordered to check for specific markers of inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or infections that could be contributing to your hand pain.

Treating hand pain starts with a precise diagnosis and understanding of the underlying cause. Medical professionals offer a range of treatments tailored to your specific condition to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.

1. Medication and Injections: Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections are often the first line of treatment to reduce pain and swelling. These can be especially effective for arthritis, tendonitis, and other inflammatory conditions.

2. Physical Therapy: A customised physical therapy program can strengthen the hand muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance range of motion. Exercises, stretching, and techniques like ultrasound or electrical stimulation may be used to accelerate recovery and prevent future injuries.

3. Splinting and Bracing: Wearing a splint or brace can help immobilise and support the hand, reducing strain and allowing damaged tissues to heal. This is particularly helpful in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, fractures, or ligament injuries.

4. Arthroscopy: For more severe cases, such as persistent pain or joint problems, arthroscopy may be recommended. This minimally invasive procedure uses a tiny camera and specialised tools inserted through small incisions to diagnose and treat joint conditions. Arthroscopy can help remove damaged tissue, repair torn ligaments, or treat arthritis, resulting in faster recovery times and minimal scarring.

5. Surgery: In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures can range from tendon or ligament repairs to joint replacement, depending on the severity and type of hand condition. Surgery is often considered a last resort when other options have not provided relief.

Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs, aiming to relieve pain, restore function, and help you regain the use of your hands.