Pinched Nerves in Hand
A pinched nerve in your hand can cause tingling, numbness and weakness. The most common cause of a pinched nerve is compression of the nerve by surrounding tissues. It can be caused by repetitive motions, injury or arthritis. Treatment includes rest, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. If the pain is severe, you may need a corticosteroid injection or surgery.
Symptoms
If you have pain, tingling, or numbness in your hand, it may be caused by a pinched nerve. The symptoms of a pinched nerve in your hand can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Here are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Pain: You may feel a sharp or dull pain in the affected area. The pain may get worse when you move your hand or fingers.
- Tingling: You may feel a tingling sensation in the affected area. This is often described as “pins and needles.”
- Numbness: You may feel numbness in the affected area. This means you can’t feel touch or pressure as well as you normally would.
If you suspect you have a pinched nerve in your hand, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
Causes
Pinched nerves are a common occurrence, especially in the hands. The causes of pinched nerves in the hand can range from simple activities to more serious conditions. However, there are several common causes of pinched nerves in the hand that can be easily treated.
One of the most common causes of pinched nerves in the hand is repetitive motion. This can occur from activities such as typing on a keyboard or using a mouse for long periods of time. Repetitive motion can cause the muscles and tendons in the hand to become irritated and inflamed, which can lead to a pinched nerve.
Another common cause of pinched nerves in the hand is arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints, which can put pressure on the nerve endings and cause pain.
Treatment
If you have a pinched nerve in your hand, the first step is to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis. After that, there are several things you can do at home to ease the pain and help the nerve heal.
You may also want to try taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Just be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully.
Home remedies
If you have ever experienced the sudden, sharp pain of a pinched nerve in your hand, you know how debilitating it can be. The good news is that there are several home remedies that can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with this condition.
- Rest is one of the most important things you can do for a pinched nerve. Take a break from any activities that may be causing or aggravating the problem. If your job involves repetitive motions, try to take some time off work.
- Ice can also help reduce pain and swelling. Apply an ice pack to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- You should also try to keep your hand elevated as much as possible to reduce pressure on the nerve.
- Another home remedy that can be helpful is to take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin. These medications can help reduce pain and inflammation.
If your symptoms are severe, you may need to see a doctor for prescription strength medication.
Medications
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling in your hand due to a pinched nerve, there are several medications that can help. Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce inflammation and pain. If those don’t work, your doctor may prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory medication or muscle relaxers. Steroid injections are also an option for more severe cases. If you’re still experiencing pain after trying these methods, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve.
Exercises
If you have pinched nerves in your hand, there are certain exercises you can do to help alleviate the pain and discomfort.
- One exercise is to simply hold your hand out in front of you and make a fist. Then, open your hand as wide as you can and hold for a few seconds. Repeat this several times.
- Another exercise is to place your hand on a table or other flat surface. Using your other hand, slowly bend your fingers down towards the palm of your hand. Hold for a few seconds and then release. Repeat this several times.
For both of these exercises, be sure to do them slowly and carefully. If you experience any pain, stop immediately and consult with your doctor. With regular practice, these exercises can help reduce the pain associated with pinched nerves in your hand.
Physical therapy
If you have a pinched nerve in your hand, physical therapy may be a helpful treatment option. A physical therapist can provide exercises and other interventions to help reduce your pain and improve your hand function.
Physical therapy for a pinched nerve in the hand includes exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tissues around the nerve. Therapeutic modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation may also be used to help reduce pain and inflammation. With proper treatment, most people with pinched nerves in their hand can find relief from their symptoms and improve their function. If you are struggling to manage your pain, be sure to talk to your doctor or physical therapist about other treatment options that may be right for you.