Dr. AJ Julka
Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hand
Stiff Fingers: Possible Causes and Treatments
If you’re suffering from finger pain, hand pain, wrist pain, or any upper extremity injuries, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
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Stiff fingers can make everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding a cup feel frustrating and painful. This page will explore the common causes of stiff fingers, how they are diagnosed, effective at-home remedies, and when surgical options may be necessary.
Our team of experienced orthopedic specialists at JIS Orthopedics is dedicated to restoring your hand health. Contact one of our offices in New Albany or St. Clairsville, Ohio, today to schedule a consultation!
What Causes Stiff Fingers?
Finger stiffness can result from several underlying conditions affecting the muscles, nerves, tendons, and finger joints. The most common reasons a person may experience stiff fingers include the following:
Arthritis
Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks connective tissue in the joints, leading to inflammation and finger stiffness.
Trigger Finger
This occurs when the protective sheath surrounding the tendon becomes inflamed, causing a “catching” sensation when bending the finger. People with trigger finger may experience stiff fingers, especially in the morning. A tender lump may also form at the base of the affected finger, making movement more difficult.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
When the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist, it can lead to numbness, wrist pain, and finger stiffness. A person with carpal tunnel syndrome may have weakened grip and pinch strength, making it harder to perform daily tasks. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs gradually and may affect one or both hands.
Tendonitis and Overuse Injuries
Repetitive hand movements can cause the tendons to become irritated or inflamed, leading to difficulty moving the affected fingers.
Other Causes
Previous injuries, scar tissue, and the natural aging process can reduce the range of motion in the fingers.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your finger stiffness, it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis to ensure effective treatment.
How is Finger Stiffness Diagnosed?
To determine the cause of your stiff fingers, an orthopedic specialist will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. During the exam, you may be asked to flex, extend, and move your fingers to assess their range of motion and strength.
If carpal tunnel syndrome is suspected, a physical therapist or doctor may check for numbness or tingling in the fingers.
Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be ordered to detect issues with bones, joints, or connective tissue. Early diagnosis is key to effective remedies and medical treatment for finger stiffness.
Stretches for Stiff Fingers
Hand exercises and stretches can help improve flexibility and reduce stiffness in your finger joints. Here are some simple stretches you can do at home:
- Finger Extension Stretch: Place your hand flat on a table, palm up, and lift each finger one at a time, holding it for a few seconds.
- Fist Stretch: Slowly form a fist with your hand, squeezing gently, then open your hand as wide as possible. Repeat 10-15 times.
- Thumb Stretch: Touch your thumb to the base of your pinky finger and hold it for a few seconds. Repeat 10 times.
- Tendon Glides: Move your fingers into a straight, hook, and full fist position, holding each for 5 seconds.
These stretches can improve flexibility and restore the usual position of affected fingers. If exercises alone aren’t enough, a physical therapist can design a more personalized program for you.
Home Remedies for Stiff Fingers
If you’re dealing with mild finger stiffness, there are several at-home remedies you can try to relieve discomfort and improve movement:
- Heat Therapy: Warm compresses or soaking your hands in warm water can help relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the affected fingers.
- Massage: Gently massaging the hand and fingers may reduce inflammation and improve flexibility.
- Rest and Splinting: If repetitive strain is the cause, taking breaks from certain activities and wearing a hand splint can reduce pressure on the joints.
- Grip and Pinch Strengtheners: Using small hand grippers or resistance putty can help strengthen hand muscles and improve finger movement.
If symptoms persist despite these remedies, it’s best to seek medical care to prevent long-term damage.
Surgical Options to Treat Stiff Fingers
When non-surgical treatments fail, surgery may be the next step. Surgical options depend on the cause of the stiffness:
- Carpal Tunnel Release: If finger carpal tunnel syndrome is the cause, a small surgical procedure can release pressure on the median nerve. This relieves wrist pain and restores sensation and movement.
- Trigger Finger Release: If trigger finger carpal tunnel symptoms persist, a surgeon may release the protective sheath to allow the tendon to glide smoothly. This procedure can prevent the locking or catching sensation that many people experience.
- Joint Replacement or Fusion: For severe arthritis, joint replacement or fusion may be considered to relieve joint pain and restore function.
If you’ve tried home remedies and hand exercises with no success, it may be time to consult with an orthopedic specialist. The experts at JIS Orthopedics offer surgical and non-surgical solutions tailored to your needs.
Find Lasting Relief for Stiff Fingers with JIS Orthopedics
Don’t let stiff fingers limit your daily activities. Whether your symptoms are due to carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, or arthritis, JIS Orthopedics provides comprehensive care to restore hand health. Our expert team serves patients in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, offering both non-surgical treatments and advanced surgical options.
Take the first step toward better hand mobility. Visit our hand and wrist care page to learn more about our specialized services for finger stiffness and other hand-related issues. Let JIS Orthopedics help you regain the movement and comfort you deserve.
Medically reviewed by Dr. AJ Julka
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If you’re suffering from finger pain, hand pain, wrist pain, or any upper extremity injuries, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
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