What causes hand and wrist pain?
Numbness in the thumb and first fingers, especially at night, suggests carpal tunnel syndrome. A finger that catches or locks is trigger finger. A deep ache where the thumb meets the wrist, worse when you pinch, is often thumb arthritis, and pain on the thumb side of the wrist with lifting can be de Quervain's.
The hand is crowded with nerves and tendons, so precision matters. Ultrasound guidance lets many hand procedures be done through a tiny opening in the office, with a quick return to light use.
When to see an orthopedic doctor for hand and wrist pain
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers that wakes you at night
- A finger that catches, clicks, or locks
- Thumb-base pain when you pinch, grip, or open jars
- Weak grip or dropping objects
- A lump or cord in the palm that keeps a finger bent
Get urgent care instead if you have
- A deformed finger or wrist after a fall
- A red, swollen, very painful finger or hand, especially after a cut or bite
- Sudden weakness or numbness in the hand with facial droop or speech trouble (call 911)