Feeling pain in the fingers and the associated impairment of mobility is a fairly common pathology, especially in older people. Based on statistical data, problems with the mobility of the joints of the hands, accompanied by soreness of the fingers, are observed after forty years in one out of ten, and after sixty years - in every third.

The risk group in this case are people whose profession is directly related to fine motor skills of hands or printing (jewelers, seamstresses, typists). What is most interesting is that the reasons that the hand hurts can be a wide variety of pathologies, differing not only in the nature of the course of the disease, but also in the etiological factors contributing to the development of this condition.

What causes pain in the hands?

Regarding the pathologies of the fingers, which are characterized by the symptom in question, again, they can be very different in origin, but pain is always associated with damage to the joints of the hands or periarticular tissues.

It should be noted that the soreness of the fingers is only the initial symptom, after which, as a rule, comes the restriction of mobility and deformation of the small joints of the hands. That is, as a result of the fact that a person did not pay attention to the recurring pain in the fingers in time, chronic disability may occur with subsequent disability. So the above symptoms must be taken seriously, making an allowance for the fact that these pains can be manifestations of such dangerous diseases as:

• 1. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease of the fingers, which is considered to be systemic. The pain in this case is associated with a chronic autoimmune (non-infectious) inflammatory lesion of the small joints of the hands and feet;
• 2. Osteoarthritis or polyosteoarthritis is a pathological process that occurs in the fingers and does not have an inflammatory basis. This pathology is characterized by a change in the configuration of the joints of the fingers and a violation of their mobility, as well as aching pain;
• 3. Stenosing ligamentitis is an inflammatory disease that affects the annular ligaments of the joints of the fingers.
• 4. Gout is a pathology caused by the accumulation of crystals of uric acid salts in the cavities of the joints of the hands. Meat lovers are most susceptible to this disease;
• 5. Psoriatic arthritis - the consequences of psoriasis, a severe polyetiological disease, including those affecting the joints of the hands;
• 6. Infectious arthritis - inflammation of the joints of the fingers (mainly affected by the pathological process of the articular bag) of a bacterial or viral nature.

Etiology and risk factors - fundamental differences

It should be clearly distinguished: the etiology is the immediate cause that leads to the development of the disease of the fingers and in the absence of which it will not even occur in any case. A trigger factor (risk factor, in other words) is a condition that contributes to the development of hand joint disease and its symptoms. So, the predisposing factors (that is, conditions that increase the likelihood of developing the disease) of all pathologies that are manifested by pain in the fingers, stiffness and deformity of the joints of the hands are:

• Immunity problems;
• Infectious diseases that tend to become chronic;
• Hormonal disorders;
• Violations of metabolic processes;
• Individual predisposition;
• Hand injuries, especially those that were applied at regular intervals (for example, sports injuries);
• Factors of production acting over a long period of time.

Again, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the trigger factor itself is not the direct cause of the development of hand joint disease - it increases the likelihood of its occurrence. Which is also very bad.

Therefore, it is necessary to dwell on each of these groups of diseases in more detail in order to understand where the pain came from and how to eliminate this pain. Let us dwell in more detail on each group of diseases of the joints of the hands.

Groups of diseases of the joints of the hands

One of the most common causes of sore fingers. Another unpleasant moment in this case is the lack of incidence of the disease among representatives of different age groups - the pathology affects the elderly, the working population and children (then they talk about juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, abbreviated as JRA).

A characteristic feature of this pathology is the defeat of different groups of small joints of the hands, which are located symmetrically. Accompanying this process is a sharp pain and swelling of the soft tissues in the area of ​​​​the joints of the hands, as well as hyperemia (redness). On palpation (palpation) of the hands, small rheumatic nodules can be detected - a pathognomonic (characteristic only of him, meaning) symptom of this disease. In the event that adequate therapy is not prescribed, pain in the fingers will turn into anatomical deformity of the joints of the hands (typical signs are “hands with a lorgnette”, “boutonnieres” or “swan neck”).

Osteoarthritis and polyosteoarthritis

The fingers of the hands of women of Balzac age and older hurt just because of these pathologies. The above feature is due to the nature of the estrogen background, however, a number of risk factors should also be noted - individual predisposition, metabolic problems, occupational hazards that affect the fingers.

This disease has several characteristic features only for it. For example, in the absence of adequate treatment, anatomical deformation of the hand joints occurs, similar to rheumatoid arthritis (thickening of the hand joints also occurs, they become spindle-shaped and as a result, the joint loses its functional significance). However, damage to other organs that are not related to the musculoskeletal system does not occur. It is this moment that can be decisive in the differential diagnosis of diseases in which the arm hurts. In this case, it is of fundamental importance for determining the tactics of managing the patient.

There are clinical cases in which this process affected the joints of the thumb in isolation. Accordingly, pain occurred only in this anatomical region. Pathology was even given a characteristic name - rhizarthrosis.

In this case, pain in the fingers had to be differentiated from gout and psoriatic arthritis. The pathological processes that accompany these diseases were also predominantly localized in the indicated anatomical region. By the way, it is possible to differentiate only after a biochemical blood test with the determination of the level of salts (urates and oxalates), the renal-hepatic complex, the rheumatic complex (determination of the level of antistreptolysin-O) and electrolytes.

Gout

Pathology is caused by a violation of the metabolism of purines - intermediate products of protein metabolism. The mechanism of its implementation is the accumulation of uric acid salts (urates) inside the joints of the hands. It should be noted that during the manifestation of gout, the joints of the feet are primarily affected, and only then there is dysfunction of the small joints of the hands and pain in them (the metacarpophalangeal joints suffer most of all).

The nature of painful sensations in this case, as a rule, is pronounced (meaning intensity), burning; attacks of different duration are noted. Movement during an attack is difficult. The main risk group is middle-aged and older men.

Stenosing ligamentitis

This rather rare disease occurs due to an inflammatory process occurring in the region of the periarticular tissues - the annular ligament of the finger (ligamentum - in Latin it means a ligament, the prefix - it means an inflammatory process, pain). For the implementation of differential diagnosis with arthritis or arthrosis, an x-ray of the affected joint is used.

Typical clinic of ligamentitis:

• Pain in the fingers when trying to move, in some cases, jamming in the phalangeal joints;
• The occurrence of characteristic clicks due to the fact that the ligaments lose their elasticity.

Psoriasis

Polyetiological disease, which is characterized by a systemic lesion of the body. It is wrong to believe that only the skin is affected during the manifestation of this pathology. For example, arthritis of the fingers (as one of the forms of this disease) is widespread among patients with psoriasis. In the vast majority of cases, the distal phalanges of the fingers and toes are affected. There are cases when dactylitis occurs - a generalized inflammation of the tissues of the finger.

Characteristic manifestations - severe pain, which increases many times with flexion, is combined with edema and hyperemia. Diagnosis in most cases is not difficult due to the fact that specific rashes occur on the skin. Fingers of both hands are affected.

Often, infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, microscopic fungi) directly affect the joints of the fingers, which leads not only to the fact that pain occurs even at rest, but also to an increase in body temperature, severe intoxication.

Tenosynovitis de Quervain

Tenosynovitis de Quervain is a fairly rare disease, the frequency of its occurrence does not exceed 5% of all cases of pain in the fingers. It consists in the defeat of the ligaments and "small" muscles in the tenor area. Accordingly, because of this, the thumbs of the hand hurt. Other fingers in this case are not affected.

No risk groups have been identified to date. The first symptoms manifest when pressing the thumb on a hard object. In this case, the thumbs of the hand hurt equally intensely on both hands.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Pathology of a neurological nature, in which the fingers of both hands hurt. The mechanism of its development is that the median nerve is compressed in the carpal tunnel. This occurs due to the fact that there are excessive loads on the ligaments and joints of the hands. It is an occupational disease in people whose profession involves frequent flexion and extension of the fingers (this includes programmers, copywriters, musicians and artists).

Typical symptoms are pain in the thumb, forefinger, decreased accuracy of fine motor skills, decreased muscles in the tenor area.

This disease must be taken seriously for the reason that timely diagnosis and adequately prescribed treatment help to avoid disability. Fingers hurt, after all, not just like that, but for some specific reason.

Why is it so important to determine which disease caused the pain in the fingers?

The thing is that the correct determination of the cause of pain in the area of ​​​​the fingers allows you to correctly determine the tactics of managing the patient and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Of course, in this case it will not be of such fundamental importance as, for example, in the differential diagnosis of retrosternal pain (due to the fact that the same drugs are used in all of the above cases), however, it is still necessary to know what pathology caused pain in the fingers.

Examinations and consultations to be taken by a patient who complains of the syndrome in question

• 1. First of all, it is necessary to consult a therapist, a cardiologist, a neuropathologist and a rheumatologist. An integrated approach in this case will allow you to objectively assess the patient's condition and understand why the fingers hurt;
• 2. X-ray of the joints of the hand. Some of the diseases listed above have their own specific radiological signs - regardless of whether the finger of the right hand or the left is affected;
• 3. General clinical blood and urine tests, as well as a biochemical blood test with the definition of a rheumatic complex, a renal-hepatic complex and electrolytes.

How is finger pain treated?

For a better understanding of the question of how the pain in the fingers is eliminated, it is necessary to identify the following principles for eliminating the pain syndrome and treating the underlying disease:

• In the event that the main pathogenetic link of the disease, due to which the finger hurts, is inflammatory in nature, then the main therapeutic approaches will be to prescribe antibiotics, glucocorticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Provided that the leading role in the development of a certain nosology, manifested by pain in the area of ​​​​the fingers, belongs to dystrophic processes, then in this case, chondroprotectors and physiotherapeutic methods (massage, manual therapy) will be the primary drugs of choice;


• Be that as it may, the use of potent painkillers is necessary (the best is the simultaneous use of several dosage forms - parenteral, enteral and ointment, for example). It is clear that it will not be possible to cure the disease and forget about this problem forever, due to the fact that the etiological factor leading to pain in the fingers will not be eliminated, but this can alleviate the patient's condition.

Specific appointments, dosages and schedule of admission are established by the attending physician, based on the assessment of the objective condition of the patient and the analysis data.

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Polyosteoarthritis of the fingers, "knotty fingers"

Polyosteoarthritis of fingers gives approximately 40% of all cases of pain in the fingers. People are ill at least 40-45 years old (people under 40 years old suffer from this disease in extremely rare cases), but people aged 50-55 years and older are especially often affected by polyosteoarthritis of the fingers. Women get sick much more often than men.

For polyosteoarthritis of the fingers, the occurrence of special nodules (the so-called Heberden's nodules) on the back or side surface of those joints that are closer to the nails. Heberden's nodules most often develop symmetrically, that is, on the right and left hands at the same time and in the same places. However, they can form on any fingers, from thumbs to little fingers.

During the formation of Heberden's nodules in the joints under them, burning and pain may occur; sometimes these joints swell and turn red. But in a third of patients, the formation of Heberden's nodules occurs asymptomatically, without pain and burning.

In addition to Heberden's nodules, with polyosteoarthrosis, painless nodules appear on those joints that are located approximately in the middle of the fingers (proximal interphalangeal joints). These are Bouchard's nodes. They are spindle-shaped, develop very slowly and, with rare exceptions, almost do not hurt.

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- approximately 5-7% of all cases of pain in the fingers. People of any age are ill, but most often those who are over thirty. Women get sick about 5 times more often than men. The disease develops, as a rule, after severe stress or after the flu, severe colds, infections or hypothermia.

Rheumatoid arthritis most often begins with inflammation and swelling of the metacarpophalangeal joints of the index and middle fingers (i.e., with inflammation of the joints located at the base of these fingers, in the region of the protruding bones of the clenched fist). Inflammation of the metacarpophalangeal joints in most cases is combined with inflammation and swelling of the wrist joints.

Inflammation of the fingers and wrist joints in rheumatoid arthritis is symmetrical, that is, if the joints on the right hand are affected, then the same joints on the left hand are almost certainly affected. In most patients, the process often involves other joints of the fingers and toes, as well as large joints - knee, elbow, ankle, etc.

At the same time, the inflammatory rhythm of pain is most typical for rheumatoid arthritis: pain in the joints intensifies in the second half of the night, in the morning. In the afternoon and in the evening pains usually weaken a little.

Very often, the listed symptoms are accompanied in rheumatoid patients by a feeling of weakness, fever, weight loss and chills, that is, the disease often leads to a general deterioration in the patient's well-being.

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Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis- less than 5% of all cases of pain in the fingers. The disease affects most often people aged 20-50 years. In most cases (but not always), the disease develops in people who already have skin psoriatic manifestations - dry, scaly reddish spots on the body or on the scalp (psoriatic plaques).

For the defeat of the fingers in psoriatic arthritis, the so-called "axial inflammation" is characteristic, when all its joints swell at once on any finger. The finger itself turns red and looks like a sausage. A similar pathology is called “sausage-shaped” finger.

In psoriatic arthritis, axial inflammation can occur in any finger. But note that with this disease, inflammation of the fingers on the right and left hands is most often asymmetrical, that is, fingers on one hand are usually affected; and sometimes on two hands at once, but then on one hand one fingers and joints become inflamed, and on the other hand - completely different.

For more on psoriatic arthritis, see Chapter 19.

Gout or gouty arthritis

Gout, or gouty arthritis - less than 5% of all cases of pain in the fingers.

People call gout a deformity of the big toe, which usually develops in women. But in fact, this is not gout, but arthrosis of the big toe. But the "classic", real gout (gouty arthritis) often occurs in men. Women suffer from gout several times less often.

And although true gout does often (but by no means always) begin with long-suffering big toes, it can affect any joint, both in the hands and feet.

Gouty arthritis usually appears between the ages of 20 and 50. The first, as already mentioned, the joints of the toes or the knee or ankle joints are more often inflamed. On the hands, the joints of the thumbs become inflamed more often than others (but any other fingers can also become inflamed - both on one hand and on both).

Inflammation of the joints with gout occurs in the form of attacks. In most cases, a gouty attack happens quite unexpectedly: it usually begins against the background of full health, most often at night. The pain in the joints during a gouty attack is often very acute: according to the stories of patients, "it makes you want to climb the wall." The affected joint turns red during such an attack, the skin over it becomes bright red or purple and hot to the touch.

Although in some patients, especially in women, the attacks are milder, without reddening of the joint and without such acute pain. But in any case, an attack of gout occurs unexpectedly and lasts from 3 to 10 days; then it suddenly passes as if nothing had happened. However, after some time, the attack just as suddenly repeats itself again.

This paroxysmal course of the disease is the hallmark of gouty arthritis.

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Tenosynovitis de Quervain

Tenosynovitis de Quervain- Approximately 5% of all cases of pain in the fingers. This is an inflammation of the ligaments and "small" muscles in the area of ​​​​exclusively the thumb. Other fingers with de Quervain's tenosynovitis do not become inflamed.

De Quervain's tenosynovitis can occur at any age in both men and women. Characteristic symptoms: pain at the base of the thumb and under it, where the thumb comes into contact with the wrist joint.

Pain can occur spontaneously, "out of the blue", but most often they appear when the thumb is loaded, when you try to press your thumb on something, or when you try to grab something with your thumb and forefinger. In addition, the pain intensifies when the thumb is extended towards itself, i.e. towards the elbow.

For more on de Quervain's tenosynovitis, see Chapter 6.

Rhizarthrosis - arthrosis of the thumb

Rhizarthrosis- Approximately 5% of all cases of pain in the fingers. Rhizarthrosis affects the joint located at the base of the thumb and connecting the metacarpal bone of the thumb with the radiocarpal joint.

Usually, rhizarthrosis is one of the manifestations of polyosteoarthrosis of the fingers, and then it is not difficult to make a diagnosis. But in about 20-30% of cases, rhizarthrosis occurs as an independent disease, usually in people who constantly heavily load or once extremely overloaded the thumb. In this case, it can be quite difficult to distinguish rhizarthrosis from de Quervain's tenosynovitis, since the symptoms of these diseases coincide by almost 90%.

In such a situation, it will help us to distinguish rhizarthrosis from de Quervain's tenosynovitis by the deformation of the bones of the diseased joint, which is clearly visible on examination and clearly recorded on an x-ray (with de Quervain's tenosynovitis, only a change in the soft tissues above the joint can be detected on an x-ray - and even that is extremely rare).

For more information about rhizarthrosis, see the chapter on RїRѕR»РёРѕСЃС‚еоартрозу пальцев СЂСѓРє.

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Why does pain occur in the joints of the fingers?

The causes of pain of this nature are usually diseases or damage to the joints and periarticular tissues. The nature of the pathology can be judged by the degree of damage - for example, in chronic processes, the joints can not only hurt, but also deform. Pain in the joints of the fingers is a characteristic sign of such pathologies as:

Predisposing factors for the development of various lesions of the fingers are:

• pathology of the immune system;
• chronic infections;
• hormonal changes;
• metabolic disease;
• hereditary factors;
• hand injuries, including frequently occurring microtraumas (sports or professional);
• long-acting harmful factors: the constant presence of hands in cold water, etc.

Let us dwell in more detail on each group of diseases.

Diseases affecting the joints of the hands

This pathology is one of the most common causes of damage to the small joints of the hands. Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age, from childhood to old age. It is characterized by a symmetrical lesion of different groups of joints, but especially strong - in the area of ​​​​the fingers. Pain is accompanied by signs of inflammation: swelling and redness. On the affected areas under the skin, sometimes you can feel dense formations - rheumatoid nodules. The disease proceeds in waves - with periods of remission and acute attacks.

With long-term current rheumatoid arthritis, a characteristic deformity of the hands often develops like “hands with lorgnette”, “boutonniere” or “swan neck”.

Osteoarthritis and polyosteoarthritis

This group of diseases is more typical for older women, since the nature of its development is directly related to the estrogen background. However, there are other causes of osteoarthritis: heredity, metabolic disorders, occupational stress, etc.

In addition to pain, osteoarthritis of the hands is characterized by the formation of subcutaneous nodules in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bdiseased joints, which, along with swelling, contribute to the development of deformity of the fingers - they take on a characteristic knotty appearance. Sometimes the fingers look like a spindle, because of the thickening in the middle. Outwardly, this may resemble rheumatoid arthritis, but with arthrosis there is no damage to other groups of joints and internal organs.

Often, osteoarthritis of the hands proceeds as rhizarthrosis, when the joints of the thumbs are isolated. Rhizarthrosis often develops as a result of prolonged excessive stress on the thumb. A lesion in this area always has to be differentiated from such pathologies as gout and psoriatic arthritis, for which this particular place is a favorite localization.

Gout

This disease is associated with a violation of the metabolism of purines - products of protein metabolism, which leads to the deposition of uric acid salts (urates) in the inside of the joints. Although the joints of the feet are primarily affected in gout, the hands are often involved as well. First of all, the metacarpophalangeal joints (closest to the tips) of the thumbs suffer.

Pain in gout can be very intense, paroxysmal and have a burning, tearing character. They are accompanied by swelling and redness of the skin over the affected area. Movements in the thumb (as a rule, it is he who is affected) during a painful attack are extremely difficult or impossible. Men suffer from gout more often, aged 40 - 60 years.

Stenosing ligamentitis

This disease is associated with inflammation of the periarticular tissues - the annular ligament of the finger. Outwardly, the pathology resembles arthritis or arthrosis, so an x-ray is taken to clarify the diagnosis.

Clinically, ligamentitis proceeds typically: with pain during flexion and extension, and sometimes with jamming of the finger in a bent state, when its extension is possible only with effort. At the same time, characteristic clicks can be heard. Why does such a picture emerge? The annular ligament thickens and loses elasticity during inflammation.

Psoriasis

Psoriatic arthritis of the fingers is one of the forms of psoriasis. Along with a characteristic skin lesion, in 10-15% of patients, the joints are involved in the process, mainly the distal (nail) phalanges of the fingers and toes. The disease sometimes takes the form of dactylitis, a general inflammation of the tissues of the finger. They swell, redden, painful and hard to bend. Outwardly, they take the form of sausages.

The diagnosis of "psoriatic arthritis" is usually not difficult to make, since the disease develops against the background of a specific skin lesion.

Septic and infectious arthritis

They can occur both in the form of pathology of a single joint (monoarthritis) and multiple (polyarthritis). The cause is always an infectious agent that enters the joint tissues either through damaged skin or through the bloodstream.

The clinical picture can be varied depending on the form and severity of the lesion. If there is purulent inflammation, the symptoms will be not only local pain, but also a violation of the general condition - high body temperature, fever, intoxication.

Pain treatment

First of all, therapeutic measures should be aimed at eliminating the underlying disease. If pain in the joints of the fingers occurs due to an inflammatory process, antibiotics, hormones and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. With a dystrophic lesion, first it is necessary to restore the damaged articular cartilage with the help of chondroprotectors and auxiliary measures: massage, manual therapy, physiotherapy.

With severe pain, painkillers are prescribed in the form of injections, ointments, tablets, etc. Although, as the main pathological process is eliminated, the pain will pass.

To make recovery go faster, folk remedies can be used in the treatment of this kind of disease. Here are some popular recipes.

In order for the treatment to give a result, it is necessary to strictly follow all the recommendations of your doctor. And then the chances of recovery or significant relief of the condition will be high.

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Joints and age

Cardiologists like to say that a person is only as old as his arteries. The same can be said about the joints, as they are most affected by age. Over the years, they lose their mobility, the range of motion in the joints noticeably decreases, since a person in everyday life has to make movements with a much smaller amplitude than that for which the joints are designed. The articular surface of the connecting bones, smooth in young years, becomes fibrous with age, part of it becomes inoperative. Attempts to make movements with maximum amplitude (raise outstretched arms up, take them behind the back, raise the outstretched leg high, crouch low, bend over, etc.) are accompanied by crunching and pain. The process of age-related changes is especially pronounced in the shoulder, knee, hip joints, in the whole vertebral; column.

Diverse, multi-axial movements in the joints of the arms and legs, in the spine maintain and develop normal anatomical structures in the joints, and consequently, normal sub-weight. The smoothness of movements depends on the condition of the joints and spine. Bent postures, crooked legs at the knees and hips, unsteady gait with small steps, characteristic of many elderly and old people, can be overcome.

It should also be noted that the development of osteochondrosis, characterized by a kind of degenerative! changes in the intervertebral discs, in a huge number of cases leading to a chronic painful disease of sciatica, largely depends on the lack of movement of the spine. It is possible to prevent (or weaken) osteochondrosis mainly by systematic exercises.

It is necessary to persistently repeat those movements that are most difficult, first with a small amplitude and unsharply, then increase them in volume and intensity. Exercise dosage is based on individual experience. Sometimes it takes 10-15 minutes to work out all the joints (and with them the ligaments and muscles), sometimes these exercises have to be given 30-40 minutes each. Exercise can be done multiple times throughout the day. Vigorous movements of the fingers and toes are replaced by rotation of the head, multi-axis rotation of the arms and raising the legs with deep inclinations. It is very useful to twist the so-called "hula hoop".

After sleep, joint mobility is limited. The older the person, the more clearly he feels it. It is very useful in the morning immediately after sleep to do several elementary exercises in bed that restore mobility in the joints. This first charge takes no more than 2-5 minutes, but it gives a good mood and performance.

1. Rotation of the feet in different planes.

2. Squeezing and unclenching the fingers.

3. Alternate and simultaneous raising of hands.

4. Sipping while lying on your back and stomach. Lying on your back, perhaps more

deep arch in the lower back.

5. Sitting on the bed, slowly rotate the head on different planes.

6. Sitting on the bed, bending the torso to the right, ilgvi, forward.

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Diseases of the joints of the hands

This disease is systemic, affects the connective tissue and develops in older people. They are more commonly affected by men. There is an opinion about a possible genetic predisposition to rheumatoid arthritis. Hypothermia, bruises, emotional stress, infectious diseases contribute to its appearance. In the absence of treatment of acute respiratory infections, influenza and tonsillitis, rheumatoid arthritis may develop as a complication. The disease affects the small joints of the hands, as well as the shins, knees and ankles.

It is dangerous because it is usually diagnosed in the later stages, when the connective tissue is severely damaged. Antibodies gradually accumulate in the body and suddenly begin their activity. The patient at the same time leads a habitual way of life and at first does not notice any changes in well-being. Under the influence of antibodies, the joints deform, they can no longer perform their functions and increase in size. This process is accompanied by pain. As a rule, if a joint is damaged on one side, then on the other too. Thus, the inflammation proceeds symmetrically. The joints in rheumatoid arthritis are fixed in one position, on the hands the fingers are shifted to the little finger. It becomes impossible to completely bend or unbend them. Patients may find firm nodules located under the skin of the hands.

After a long sleep or rest, patients need time to overcome the stiffness in order for the joints to start working again. The movements are very painful. Rheumatoid arthritis in some cases is accompanied by vasculitis, that is, inflammation of the walls of blood vessels. High body temperature is another symptom of the disease. Arthritis causes inflammation of the lining of the heart or lungs. This leads to chest pain and breathing difficulties. Women with rheumatoid arthritis often suffer from Sjögren's syndrome. It is less common in men. Sjögren's syndrome in medicine refers to inflammation of the mucous membranes. This causes dry eyes and mouth. The vagina, vulva, and trachea may also be affected.

In the course of changes in the joints, scar tissue is formed. The speed of this process depends on the individual characteristics of the organism. Rheumatoid arthritis in symptoms resembles a number of other diseases, so the diagnosis cannot always be made correctly. To clarify it, a biopsy is performed, when particles of nodules located under the skin are taken for analysis with a thin needle. In most cases, diagnosis is based on radiography and examination of the joint fluid. The results of biochemical analysis in most patients show an increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate, low leukocyte count, anemia. In many cases, rheumatoid factor occurs, which means the presence of antibodies in the blood. However, this symptom is characteristic not only for rheumatoid arthritis, but also for some liver diseases, for example, and can be found even in healthy people. The level of rheumatoid arthritis shows the degree of inflammation and increases during periods of exacerbation. The higher it is, the more damage to the joints.

On the subject: All information about rheumatoid arthritis!

This is one of the forms of rheumatoid arthritis, characteristic of children. It is named after the scientist who discovered and first described it. With Still's disease, there is an increase in body temperature. It reaches its highest value several times a day, most often in the evening. The rash appears and disappears unnoticed by the patient. To determine its presence, doctors use warm wipes or intense pressure on the skin. The rash is less common on the face than on the body. It is represented by red or pink spots. The rash on the body can be itchy.

Still's disease primarily affects the interphalangeal joints in the hands. This phenomenon is not typical for other similar diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. In some patients, Still's disease causes inflammation of the lymph nodes and is accompanied by a burning sensation and sore throat. As with rheumatoid arthritis, pleurisy and pericarditis may develop.

Long-term follow-up is required to diagnose Still's disease. A biochemical blood test does not show the presence of a rheumatoid factor, but an increased content of protein, leukocytes is observed, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases. X-ray allows you to determine changes in the tissues of the joints, a puncture is also performed, during which the joint fluid is examined. To exclude the possibility of malignant tumors, a biopsy of the lymph nodes is performed.

In the acute period, Still's disease is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Recovery with proper therapy occurs within a few months. Drugs such as prednisolone, dexamethasone, and less often methotrexate are used.

Osteoarthritis

This chronic disease involves a change in cartilage tissue, as a result of which the joints are deformed and become immobile. They mainly affect the elderly. Osteoarthritis they have pronounced symptoms. Young people who experience such a disease usually do not experience such severe discomfort.

The joints of the fingers are the first to be affected by osteoarthritis. After it spreads to the cross and cervical spine, knees. You can determine the presence of the disease by the characteristic crunch in the joints, which is heard when making movements. At first, immobility of the joint is observed in a person after sleep or a long rest. And it goes away within an hour. In the later stages of the development of osteoarthritis, the joints are finally fixed in a bent position. Heberden's nodes form at the fingertips. During physical activity, pain in the joints is felt. At a young age, the main symptoms are crackling and snapping of the fingers.

Osteoarthritis is primary, arising from unknown causes, and secondary, appearing as a result of other diseases. Its development is facilitated by joint injuries, their deformation and overload. To identify osteoarthritis allow pain in the joints. An accurate diagnosis is made on the basis of X-ray examination and magnetic resonance imaging. X-ray is informative in the later stages of the development of the disease. During it, it is determined how much the bone is destroyed and the cartilage tissue is damaged. Aspiration of the joint, that is, the study of joint fluid, is rarely used.

Exercise can help relieve pain and inflammation. The specific type of load should be prescribed by a doctor. The state of rest should be alternated with physical activity. Too soft mattresses, chairs should be replaced with more rigid ones. If you have excess weight, you need to get rid of it. It puts extra stress on the joints. Reducing weight will increase mobility and prevent deformation.

Treatment for osteoarthritis of the fingers includes physical therapy and thermal treatments. It is recommended to make paraffin baths with the addition of mineral oil. Aspirin and ibuprofen help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Other anti-inflammatory agents may also be used. Paracetamol is used as an analgesic.

Anesthesia is carried out not only with medication, but also with the help of warm and cold compresses, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation using a special device. Massage sessions warm up the muscles, improve blood circulation, which has a positive effect on the joints.

Joint pain is usually associated with diseases of the elderly. However, this is not quite true. There are many diseases that can cause this symptom at a fairly young age. What to do if the joints of the fingers hurt, and what causes it?

Anatomy

There are more than 300 joints in the entire musculoskeletal system. Some are involved in human movements constantly, others function less frequently. The most mobile are the joints of the fingers. In addition, they are quite small, which increases the likelihood of their destruction at the slightest excess of the load.

A joint is a junction of bones that is surrounded by:

• synovial fluid;
• hyaline cartilage;
• Articular bag;
• Synovial membrane.

Pathology of any of the above structures leads to various diseases that affect the entire joint and provoke pain.

Diseases with pain in the fingers

Each finger of the hand has 3 bones and 3 joints. The cause of pain may be inflammatory or traumatic.

Below are the main diseases in which articular pain in the hand may appear.

Arthritis

This is a disease of inflammatory etiology. It can occur both acutely and chronically. The joint itself and adjacent tissues are inflamed.

Arthritis symptoms:

• Pain on movement or at rest;
• local edema;
• Redness and local fever;
• Crunch;
• Restriction of mobility;
• Shape change.

Rheumatoid arthritis

The connective tissue becomes inflamed, and the symptoms are more likely to bother on the middle and index fingers. Characteristic features are the symmetry of the lesion on both hands and increased pain at night.

If untreated, the disease from small joints can spread to larger ones.

Gout

It occurs as a result of metabolic disorders, in particular, purines. The accumulation of salts in the joint provokes inflammation, pain and limited mobility.

It usually starts in the big toe and then spreads to other joints. Inflamed and enlarged bones swell and bake. The exacerbation can take up to several weeks.

Psoriatic inflammation

The defeat is not symmetrical. All the bones on the finger are aching. The disease leads to deformation of the joints, as a result of which the fingers of the two hands look different.

When an infection enters the bones or other structural elements of the joint, infectious arthritis appears. How to treat such a disease depends on the nature of the pathogen and the localization of the lesion.

Such pathologies are accompanied by additional symptoms:

• General intoxication;
• An increase in body temperature;
• Violation of the patient's condition.

Stenosing ligamentitis

Occurs when a ligament is damaged. Pain appears in all fingers except the little finger. The patient complains of burning and numbness, cyanosis and swelling are visually visible. With this disease, the knuckles are poorly extended. Symptoms disturb mainly in the morning. Inflammation of the thumb ligament is called de Quervain's disease.

Osteoarthritis

This is the name of the condition when the cartilage tissue is destroyed. Why is this happening? The reasons may be hidden in hormonal or metabolic disorders, genetic predisposition, prolonged increased stress.

The patient is concerned about:

• Movement restriction;
• Crunch;
• In the morning the joint aches and does not bend;
• Increased discomfort during exercise.

When the joint of the thumb on the hand hurts, rhizarthrosis is possible, which is also a degenerative disease. If the thumb is under constant stress, the likelihood of a problem increases.

Osteomyelitis

The cause is bacteria that trigger a purulent-necrotic process in the joints and soft tissues. Local symptoms are joined by general ones - fever, headache, malaise.

The result may be a curvature of the bones and immobility of the joints.

Bursitis

Inflammation is localized in the joint bags, where fluid begins to accumulate. You may notice that the finger is swollen, does not bend, and on palpation there is a sharp pain. It is possible to attach a secondary infection to the process and the onset of purulent bursitis.

Vascular disorders

If the pain is accompanied by certain changes in the skin (cyanosis, cooling, and then redness), an angiospastic crisis of peripheral vessels can be assumed.

neuropathy

Injury to the radiocarpal joint of the left hand provokes pain in the fingers of this hand. In advanced stages, the joints are very difficult to bend and unbend. Raynaud's syndrome also belongs to disorders of nerve conduction, when during uncomfortable sensations the fingertips turn white, since blood does not flow to them.

White color on the fingertips is a distinctive symptom of such a condition, which is quite dangerous due to the high probability of tissue necrosis.

Cervical osteochondrosis

Shooting pain, like a discharge of current, penetrates the patient from the joints of the forearm to the phalanges of the fingers. It usually hurts after a load on the spine.

An additional symptom is a violation of mobility in some part of the spine and pain when tilting the head.

Injury

A dislocation of the joint or a severe bruise of the phalanx can cause sharp pain. As a rule, the patient himself knows where he hit.

Visible symptoms may be bulging of the joint of the thumb or, for example, the little finger, redness, local fever.

vibration sickness

Occurs due to frequent work with vibration mechanisms. At first it is manifested by periodic discomfort, tingling more often than the middle or ring finger of the right hand. Then the paresthesia becomes permanent and turns into loss of sensation and whitening of the phalanges from the base to the tips.

tunnel syndrome

Quite common in the modern world, although few know what it is. The reason is prolonged work at the computer, as a result of which the nerve leading from the wrist to the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers is pinched.

Features of pain

• Sometimes the nature of the pain can be very likely to point to a cause.. For example, pain in the morning when bending is most likely a symptom of inflammation in the joint, in particular arthritis;
• If the joints are swollen and twisted during pregnancy, then the aches are associated with hormonal disorders. This may be a softening of the ligaments or, for example, a calcium deficiency. Often the joints ache after childbirth;
• If the fingers do not bend well after sleep, this may be due to vascular pathology and swelling;
• Unpleasant sensations after exercise also indicate problems with blood vessels. It hurts not only to clench your fist, but also numbness is felt and convulsions are possible.

Who is prone to joint disease?

The likelihood of problems with the joints of the fingers depends on several predisposing factors:

• Frequent infectious diseases;
• Increased load and premature wear of the joints;
• Age over 40;
• Hormonal and metabolic disorders;
• Hypothermia and injury.

Diagnostics

To diagnose why the joints began to hurt, the following methods will help:

Additionally, the doctor may prescribe a urine and blood test.

Which doctor treats diseases of the joints?

At the first complaints of twisting and aching in the bones, you should contact a therapist, who will then refer you to a narrower specialist. Depending on the cause of the pathology, it can be an orthopedist, neurologist, surgeon, traumatologist and rheumatologist.

Treatment

The basis of therapy is drugs of the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Diclofenac, Movalis, Nimesil). In most diseases, they help eliminate the very cause and discomfort (when small or medium joints twist and hurt).

With poor efficiency, they switch to hormonal drugs (Dexamethasone, Metipred)

With degenerative changes, which are especially visible on the little finger and index finger, chondroprotectors (Don, Structum, Chondroxide ointment) should be prescribed.

Many drugs have side effects, so they should be selected only by a doctor after determining the exact cause of the disease.

Folk methods of treatment

If the joints are very twisted and the pain reduces the quality of life, the patient can use folk remedies in parallel with medications:

• Lotions from a mixture of vodka, honey and aloe will help relieve pain in the joints of the elbows and hands;
• Infusion of lingonberry berries and leaves - they drink it inside, like tea. Removes discomfort in the little fingers, ring and other fingers, and is often used for arthrosis;
• A piece of propolis is mixed with sunflower oil, getting an ointment. With fingertips, it should be easily rubbed into sore joints.

Video exercises for the joints of the fingers

Almost every person is faced with cramps of the fingers and has an idea of ​​​​what discomfort this causes. If such cases are isolated, then they should not cause serious concern, but sometimes such symptoms appear regularly. In the latter case, it is imperative to consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In order for the treatment to be effective, it is necessary to determine the cause that caused it. It is only a qualified specialist who can find out exactly why he brings his fingers together (from the little finger to the big one).

Convulsive spasm can cause very severe pain that persists for up to several days. Seizures vary in intensity. They can occur in any age group.

Major disorders causing seizures

If the fingers are reduced by a convulsive spasm, then the main possible reasons for this are as follows:

1. Deficiency of magnesium, potassium, calcium or iron. The root cause of this is irrational nutrition - along with food, a person does not receive the necessary trace elements.
2. Increased physical activity. If the hands are constantly working and getting tired, they eventually begin to constantly cramp due to tension.
3. Hypothermia. Involuntary spasm may occur when the hand is immersed in cold water or after prolonged exposure to cold.
4. Intoxication. After poisoning (including alcohol), convulsive muscle twitches are possible for several days.
5. Violation of innervation or blood circulation. Similar phenomena can develop against the background of various diseases. Any pathology of the nervous system, herniated discs of the cervical spine, atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus are the main pathologies that lead to similar consequences.
6. The habit of sleeping in one position. Sometimes the usual sleeping position leads to squeezing of the blood vessels, which makes the fingers numb and cramps.
7. Vegetative-vascular dystonia. If the symptomatology of the pathology is pronounced, the VVD can be manifested by vasospasm, which leads to convulsions.
8. Violations of the blood supply to the spinal cord or brain.
9. Lack of vitamins. Most often these are vitamins A and group B.
10. High concentration of nicotine and caffeine in the blood. Smokers and coffee drinkers have more seizures. In this case, it is enough to give up bad habits to get rid of regular attacks.
11. Hormonal or metabolic disorders. It can be any disease of the endocrine system, as well as specific age-related changes, for example, during menopause or during puberty.
12. Monotonous work, overloading the brushes. Many people who spend a lot of time at the keyboard and mouse suffer from regular cramps. It also reduces the hands of representatives of those professions who have to write a lot.
13. Dehydration of the body. After vomiting, profuse sweating or diabetes, the body loses a large amount of fluid, along with which beneficial microelements are also excreted. As a result of the loss of the latter, convulsions appear.
14. Heart attack. If it goes numb and cramps the left arm, then this may indicate a myocardial infarction or an acute attack of angina pectoris.

Most often this is due to the fact that at this time the body needs more useful trace elements than usual. As a result, their deficiency develops. Also, pregnancy is associated with hormonal changes, which can also cause seizures.

What to do with finger cramps

If the fingers are often reduced, then you need to see a doctor to find out the reasons. After identifying the causes of seizures, it is required to deal with them in order to reduce their impact. During an attack, pain can be relieved with the help of local massage. It can be performed independently when there are unpleasant sensations characteristic of a convulsive spasm.

Massage is usually the best way to relieve spasm. You can massage the brush with special oils or lotions for greater effectiveness. Massage will provide blood flow and help eliminate muscle spasm.

To relieve muscle tension, it is useful to take warm baths with sea salt. The best time for such procedures is the evening, since cramps most often occur at night.

The diet should contain a sufficient amount of foods high in magnesium, potassium, calcium, iron, as well as vitamins useful for the body. To avoid hypothermia in winter, be sure to wear gloves or mittens. If it reduces fingers due to prolonged monotonous work, then when it is done, it is necessary to take regular breaks, knead the brushes and do a light massage. Acupuncture is a good method for regular cramps. Such treatment allows you to restore blood circulation in the tissues and restore innervation in case of its violation.

If the cramps of the fingers cause serious systemic disorders, then it will be possible to get rid of them only after complex treatment. On their own, a person is unlikely to be able to determine the cause of seizures, since they can act in combination. Therefore, with regular reduction of fingers, it is necessary to consult a doctor as soon as possible. The reasons for this phenomenon can be very serious.

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• Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
• Diseases of the internal organs
• What to do?

Pain in the scapula and numbness in the arm are common complaints that come to the doctor. Pain disturbs patients of all ages, they interfere with movement, sleep, and work. And in some cases, bouts of pain in the scapula and numbness of the limb are signs of serious illness.

It usually hurts on one side, right or left. The reason for this is diseases of the spine or pathology of internal organs.

Diseases of the musculoskeletal system

Most of the reasons why the shoulder blade hurts and the arm goes numb are associated with ailments of the spine. As is known from anatomy, nerve roots are localized in the scapular region, originating in the cervicothoracic spine. Compression of the nerves causes pain and neurological symptoms in the arm in the form of burning, numbness, tingling, and sensitivity disorders.

Diseases of the spine:

• cervical and thoracic osteochondrosis;
• protrusion of the intervertebral disc, intervertebral hernia;
• spondylolisthesis, antilisthesis;
• scoliosis of the cervicothoracic region;
• excessive kyphosis of the thoracic vertebrae, resembling a stoop;
• spinal injury;

Vertebrogenic problems are manifested by sharp, sharp, intense pains under the scapula, resembling a backache. The attack lasts several hours or days. Increases during movements, body turns, forward bends, prolonged work in an uncomfortable position. Taking painkillers helps relieve pain for a short time. Radiculopathy or radicular pain is accompanied by numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers.

Often it hurts under the right or left shoulder blade and the arm becomes numb with irritation of the intercostal nerves. Neuralgia spreads along the intercostal space, gives under the shoulder blade.

Injury occurs when falling on the back or from a direct blow. Symptoms develop rapidly. The scapula hurts intensely, painfully, especially on the first day after the injury. On examination, there is swelling, deformity and pathological mobility in the scapular region. If the nerves of the brachial plexus were damaged, then numbness and a violation of the innervation of the hand are noted at the same time. X-ray helps in establishing the diagnosis.

Diseases of the internal organs

Cardiogenic causes

The second place among the reasons why it hurts under the left shoulder blade and the arm goes numb is IHD (ischemic heart disease). Cardialgia in myocardial infarction and angina pectoris occurs behind the sternum, but radiates (reflects) under the left shoulder blade. The attack occurs from physical activity (for example, climbing stairs), the pain is compressive, pressing in nature, spreads to the angle of the jaw, to the left arm, to the neck on the left. Often the pain is accompanied by shortness of breath, cold sweat, fear and panic. Suffering stops after taking nitrates and rest.

Pain from angina may be atypical. Sometimes patients complain that their hand goes numb, and changes in the electrocardiogram indicate a developed myocardial infarction. If it hurts under the left shoulder blade and the arm goes numb, we must not forget about a serious cardiac pathology!

Intense back pain, decreased sensitivity in the hand are also with exfoliating aneurysm of the thoracic aorta. This condition develops rapidly, accompanied by a state of shock, a sharp decrease in blood pressure and internal bleeding. A characteristic feature is the migration of pain from the chest down to the lower back.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

If the right shoulder blade hurts and the hand goes numb, then perhaps hepatic colic occurs, which is caused by the movement of stones (stones) in the gallbladder. Pain occurs in the right hypochondrium, radiates to the spine, to the right collarbone, accompanied by nausea, bitterness in the mouth. After an attack, yellowing of the skin and darkening of the urine sometimes appear.

When, with a stomach ulcer, it hurts in the area of ​​​​the scapula, the hand goes numb, and the sensations are so strong that they resemble a stab in the stomach, then there is a complication of the disease - perforation of the ulcer. This is an acute surgical pathology that requires emergency surgery. Perforation is accompanied by vomiting, board-like tension in the abdomen, and a sharp deterioration in the patient's condition. In such situations, you must immediately call an ambulance.

What to do?

If it hurts under the shoulder blade and the arm goes numb, then you need to contact a specialist. Only a doctor will prescribe the necessary studies and find out the causes of the development of symptoms. The following specialists will help in diagnosing the disease: therapist, neurologist, traumatologist, cardiologist, gastroenterologist. An ECG, ultrasound, X-ray, and CT scan of the chest may be needed.

What to do if fingers and feet are crooked: contracture treatment

One of the oldest diseases in the world is joint disease. To date, there are a large number of their varieties.

In addition, many of these ailments are accompanied by contracture.

Contracture is a limitation of joint mobility due to changes in surrounding tissues.

Such changes can be caused by various injuries and diseases of the joints.

For example, if you have a bad knee bend or hard to move your arm, there is a contracture or the so-called stiffness.

Pathology is divided into two types: congenital and acquired:

• congenital pathologies include such pathologies as clubfoot, curvature of the neck, etc.;
• and acquired stiffness occurs against the background of injuries, inflammation, dystrophic changes.

In addition, this pathology is active (active movements are limited) and passive (passive actions are limited).

Contracture can affect both the affected joint and the adjacent one. Accordingly, it distinguishes between its primary and secondary forms. Regardless of the form of the disease, competent and effective treatment is necessary.

Features of the pathology of the fingers

Limb contracture is a common disease that affects both fingers and toes.

For the most part, the ring finger and little finger suffer on the hands, but if the lesion is much deeper, the disease can affect all fingers. The disease affects men more often, women are less affected.

According to many experts, the disease is slowly progressive. Such a course of it gradually shortens the tendons, inflames the ligaments, fingers suffer from this, they begin to bend poorly, there is no way to straighten them completely, the function is limited.

In some cases, contracture can proceed rapidly, the only correct solution in this situation is surgical intervention.

Provocative reasons - a lot

The causes of hand contracture are varied.

The most common are various age-related ailments, inflammatory diseases of the joints.

Also, fractures of the hand and bruises can be attributed to the main cause of stiffness of the fingers.

Many scientists believe that the hereditary inferiority of connective tissues also contributes to the occurrence of pathology.

At risk are people who are engaged in heavy physical labor, patients with diabetes, neuroses, liver diseases, and osteochondrosis. In addition, the cause of the disease can be bad habits, improper metabolism, weakened immunity.

Disease classification

Contracture of the toes, for the most part, is formed due to arthrosis of the interphalangeal joints of the fingers, and can also occur against the background of flat feet or any deformity of the foot.

Over time, subluxation of the phalanges of the fingers develops, calluses appear on the surface of the skin, mobility worsens significantly, pain appears when stepped on.

Often, the pathology affects the big toe, stiffness appears in the first metatarsophalangeal joint, usually this is a consequence of deforming arthrosis. In addition, various injuries, fractures and burns can cause deformation of the toes and their immobility.

Often the disease affects both hands, but more often one suffers - the right one. Often the disease develops in the region of the ring finger and little finger.

The disease occurs imperceptibly, at the very beginning a small knot appears in the folds of the palm, which can be mistaken for a corn. Over time, the knot increases, many others appear, it becomes difficult to bend the fingers.

At a more severe stage of the disease, the hand is deformed and the movement of the fingers is almost impossible.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

In most cases, the symptoms of the disease at the initial stage practically do not appear, only very rarely the disease can have an acute onset.

At the first signs, there is a slight discomfort when bending and unbending the fingers, if it concerns the fingers, dense knots appear on the palms, which are characterized by considerable soreness.

With the development of the disease, they can move to the fingers, and completely limit their movement. Also, often at the first stage of the development of stiffness, patients complain of fatigue of the arms and legs, a feeling of cold and numbness in the fingers appears, the skin becomes dense.

Often there is swelling, especially noticeable in the morning. In the last stages, the fingers completely stop moving, in relation to the toes, there is severe pain when stepped on, sometimes the patient cannot move independently.

The diagnosis of finger contracture is primarily based on the patient's indications.

The specialist should carefully listen to the patient's complaints and, with the help of palpation, examine all the affected areas, assess the mobility of the joints and the amplitude of their movement.

If necessary, for additional research and accurate diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe x-rays.

Treatment for poor finger mobility

Timely diagnosis is considered the most important condition for the treatment of finger contracture.

When a disease is detected, two main methods of treatment are distinguished - conservative therapy and surgery. Conservative therapy will largely depend on the degree of damage to the fingers, the course of the disease and the cause of its occurrence.

The main methods of this therapy include:

1. Various physical exercises that help relax the muscles, stretch the tendons, and increase the mobility of the fingers.
2. In addition, such physiotherapy procedures as therapeutic massage, shock wave therapy and electrophoresis are widely used. They improve the metabolic process in tissues, eliminate puffiness, and contribute to their recovery.
3. With more persistent contractures, injections of pyrogenal, paraffin-ozocerite applications are recommended.

When conservative therapy is powerless, the only correct method to help the patient is surgical intervention.

After the operation, rehabilitation methods are also needed, which are aimed at eliminating inflammation, accelerating tissue healing and restoring joint function.

Complications that threaten the disease

With a long course of the disease and the absence of treatment, the disease begins to progress, serious complications develop. The joints completely stop moving, there is an irreversible decrease in the sensitivity of the fingers.

Pain in the muscles, ligaments, joints or nerves of the hands may indicate serious illness. Arthrosis, arthritis, osteochondrosis, inflammation of soft tissues can become a provoking factor. If your hands hurt, it is better to consult a doctor and find out the cause of discomfort.

Hands can hurt for various reasons.

Why do my hands hurt?

Based on the cause, pain in the upper limbs can occur in the area of ​​the hand, elbow joint, forearm or shoulder.

Feelings are also different.

• burning pain;
• shooting discomfort;
• aching;
• pulling;
• with tingling;
• with numbness of fingers or hand;
• pain occurs in one or both hands at the same time.

The provoking factors of discomfort in the limbs can be both external stimuli (overvoltage, trauma, prolonged stay in a certain position, hypothermia), and diseases of the internal organs or the musculoskeletal system.

Table "All kinds of causes of pain in the hands, their symptoms"

Pain in the hands, which at first glance occur without a reason, may be the result of nervous tension (stress, excitement).

Symptoms in this case are as follows:

• slight tingling in the palm of your hand;
• increased sensitivity of skin receptors;
• pulls his hands, sometimes a cramp is enough.

If the discomfort in the limbs arises from the nerves on an ongoing basis, this means that the central or peripheral nervous system suffers.

Pain in the hands can occur after work, to change the weather, or be the result of severe fatigue. If discomfort disappears after rest, there is nothing to worry about.

Prolonged burning, pulling or sharp pains in the hand, wrist, elbow or shoulder are a clear sign of negative deviations in the work of internal organs. To find out the cause of discomfort, it is important to undergo an examination.

Which doctor should I contact?

Depending on the complaints, the doctor may refer to the following highly specialized specialists:

• cardiologist;

Diagnostics

Based on the patient's complaints and accompanying symptoms, the following types of studies can be prescribed:

• tomography (computer or magnetic resonance) - is used when monitoring of internal organs or the musculoskeletal system is needed;
• electroencephalogram - determines brain activity and the state of the nervous system;
• laboratory studies - a general and detailed biochemical blood test - helps to identify inflammatory processes in the body and find out pathological changes that could provoke pain in the hands;
• cardiogram - used when there is a suspicion of diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
• fluoroscopy - the study is carried out in case of fractures or severe injuries of the bones and ligaments.

An integrated approach to determining the cause of pain in the hands helps to quickly and accurately identify the source of the problem, select the right medicines.

Tomography helps to identify the condition of the hands

Hand pain treatment

Regardless of the factor that caused discomfort in the upper limb, therapy should be aimed at:

• elimination of the main disease;
• relief of pain syndrome;
• restoration of the former mobility of the hand and its functioning.

Comprehensive treatment of pain in the hands is based on medications. Additionally, it is recommended to use traditional medicine recipes.

Medications

To alleviate the patient's condition and eliminate the root cause of discomfort, several types of drugs may be prescribed (depending on the disease).

1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs - Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, Ketonal, Meloxam - reduce inflammation, relieve pain, relieve fever and swelling.
2. Hormonal glucocorticosteroids (used for various types of arthritis and arthrosis) - Dexamethasone, Cortisone, Prednisolone, Flunisolide - actively fight inflammation, prevent the development of swelling and fever in injured tissues.
3. Analgesics - Analgin, Spazmalin, Spazmalgon, Paracetamol - stop pain, relieve fever, have a mild anti-inflammatory effect.
4. Beta-blockers, statins, antithrombotic drugs - Bisoprolol, Atorvastatin (Lipitor), Lospirin (Cardio magnil, Aspirin cardio) - lower blood pressure, normalize blood circulation, stabilize cholesterol, thin the blood, preventing the formation of blood clots in the vessels.

Ketonal - anti-inflammatory drug

To increase the therapeutic effect of drugs for internal use, it is recommended to use external agents (ointments, gels, solutions). The most effective are Diclofenac-gel, Voltaren, Ketanov, Chondroxide (Chondroitin).

Properly selected medicines allow you to quickly and safely eliminate the cause of pain in the hand and improve its functioning. The main thing is not to self-medicate and strictly follow the doctor's prescription.

Folk remedies

If one or both hands pulls, twists, squeezes, tingles or burns, you can try to alleviate the condition with alternative medicine methods.

Essential oil baths

Pour 2 liters of warm water (no more than 38 degrees) into a basin, add a few drops of calendula, eucalyptus and cumin oil. Keep your hands in the prepared bath for 10-15 minutes. You can repeat the procedure 3-4 times a week.

For pain in the hands, take baths with essential oils

Anti-inflammatory infusion

In 1 liter of boiling water, brew 2 tsp. St. John's wort and thyme seeds. Insist 40 minutes. Drink 2 times a day instead of regular tea. The tool allows you to reduce inflammation in soft tissues and remove pain.

St. John's wort helps relieve pain

Lemon, dried fruits and walnuts

Grind dried apricots, raisins, lemon, walnuts in a meat grinder (take 30 g of all components). Mix the resulting slurry with honey. Use the drug 3-4 times a day for 1 tsp.

Ground nuts and dried fruits with honey is a delicious and healthy mixture.

Pain reliever ointment

Grind 30 g of bay leaf and 3-5 young juniper fruits, add 50 g of butter, beat until smooth. Rub the finished ointment into sore spots 2-3 times a day.

Ointment with bay leaf and juniper relieves pain well

Lotions from horseradish

Grind the horseradish root to form a liquid slurry. Apply the prepared substance in a thin layer on sore spots and wrap with a dry cloth. Lotions to do 2-3 times a day for 20-30 minutes.

Folk recipes are important to use in combination with the main therapy, otherwise the effect will be short and weak.

Lotions with horseradish help relieve inflammation

To alleviate the condition with aching or sharp discomfort and not harm your health, you need to follow the basic recommendations of specialists.

1. If the pain arose as a result of monotonous work or heavy loads, it is necessary to ensure peace of the limbs, do not pull or twirl the brush.
2. In the event of a severe injury or bruise, do not try to straighten the arm or put the dislocated joint back in place. It is important to see a doctor right away.
3. Do not abuse analgesics unless the underlying cause of the pain is known.
4. Do not start unpleasant discomfort in the hand and do not self-medicate, otherwise you can provoke serious consequences.
5. Strictly follow the doctor's instructions, do not replace the main treatment with folk remedies.

Do not try to straighten the joint yourself!

Attacks of pain in the hand can be of a different nature and be both the cause of ordinary overwork and indicate a serious illness. In order to detect the disease in time and eliminate the problem, you need to see a doctor and undergo a full examination. The main thing is not to treat the symptoms, but the cause of the discomfort.

If the patient at the appointment complains that he periodically or constantly twists his joints, the doctor asks to describe in more detail the sensations that arise. It causes problems for a person. The joints do not hurt, do not break, there is no itching, numbness and any other discomfort. Sensations are specific, extremely unpleasant, accompanied by slight stiffness. To get rid of them, a person jerks his legs sharply, moves a lot, rotates his hands or carefully kneads his knees and shoulders. If this helps, then for how many minutes, and then all the uncomfortable sensations return.

Extra-articular causes

If your legs or arms twist from time to time, you need to analyze your diet. The occurrence of such sensations may indicate a calcium deficiency formed in the body. With a shortage of this trace element, the functional activity of the entire musculoskeletal system decreases. Innervation is disturbed, the formation of cartilaginous, bone, connective tissue structures slows down. It is necessary to quickly adjust the daily menu, otherwise pain will soon appear, aggravated after physical exertion. The diet includes dairy products, lean meat, fish. Eliminate the deficiency will help course intake of pharmaceutical vitamins with a high content of calcium, but only after consulting a doctor. A micronutrient deficiency often occurs in such situations:

• rapid weight loss. People who adhere to monotonous diets are at risk of developing articular pathologies. During the diet, body weight decreases due to the loss of muscle tissue and fluid, which leads to calcium leaching from the bones;
• increased loads. People involved in heavy physical labor or sports should consume an increased amount of calcium. In their body, biochemical processes proceed faster, so biologically active substances must be supplied in higher concentrations;
• pregnancy, lactation. During such periods, women experience discomfort in the joints of the legs due to a lack of calcium. The trace element is necessary for the formation of bone tissue of the embryo or the formation of breast milk.

During childbearing, iron deficiency can cause discomfort in the knee, wrist, and ankle joints. This is due to the increasing circulatory system, changes in hormonal levels, increased stress on internal organs. For many pregnant women, gynecologists prescribe an additional intake of iron, recommend eating more buckwheat, red meat, and fruits.

Often twists the joints of the legs in smokers. Poisonous tobacco tar provokes the formation of atherosclerotic plaques in the blood vessels of the legs. As a result, peripheral vessels narrow, blood circulation is disturbed. To get rid of uncomfortable sensations will help only the rejection of a bad habit.

The cause of an unpleasant condition can be the use of diuretics, especially those that do not have a potassium-sparing effect. With increased urination, the body leaves not only excess fluid, but also useful mineral compounds dissolved in it. With their deficiency, the joints and spine are not able to function normally.

restless leg syndrome

This is a very common cause of a condition that patients describe as "twisting the joints of the legs and arms." Usually, discomfort occurs in the lower extremities at rest, before going to bed. As soon as a person goes to bed, there is a desire to move his fingers or walk in order to get rid of an unpleasant condition, which is often impossible to describe. Restless legs syndrome affects overly emotional people. Increased anxiety, sensitivity, nervous excitability, vulnerability predisposes to its appearance. But when diagnosing, other provoking factors are often found:

• avitaminosis;
• renal pathologies;
• diabetes;
• immoderation in the use of alcohol;
• disorders of peripheral innervation.

Unpleasant sensations are manifested in the form of sipping, a feeling of internal tension, crawling "goosebumps", a slight tingling in the legs, thighs, feet. To get rid of them, people constantly change the position of the body, intensively move their legs, stand up and walk around the room. However, it is worth lying down, as painful sensations arise again. There is no need to talk about the quality of sleep - in the morning a person feels completely overwhelmed, and in the evening he suffers from unbearable fatigue.

The intensity of the symptoms of the syndrome is quite variable. Its manifestations can be mild, occur no more than 1-2 times a month. And sometimes the signs of a pathological condition are so pronounced that they provoke the development of severe depression. The quality of life deteriorates, the person becomes psycho-emotionally unstable, irritable, conflict, nervous.

Restless legs syndrome treatment is complex and quite effective. 5-10 sessions of physiotherapy are carried out to strengthen the muscles of the legs, improve blood circulation. Patients are shown massage, balneotherapy, diet correction, daily sports. Light sedatives are prescribed (Novo-Passit, Tenoten, Persen, tinctures of valerian, motherwort), and in more serious cases, antipsychotics, tranquilizers, antidepressants. The therapeutic regimens include balanced complexes of vitamins and microelements - Complivit, Centrum, Vitrum, Selmevit, Pikovit.

Joint pathologies

If it twists the joints of the arms and legs, then first of all, doctors suspect a developing disease. This symptom is more typical for degenerative-dystrophic pathologies, but sometimes it also manifests itself in the initial stages of inflammatory processes.

Osteoarthritis

Unpleasant sensations in the joints sometimes indicate the development of osteoarthritis. The pathology is characterized by the gradual destruction of cartilaginous tissues, which act as a shock absorber, preventing damage to bones during movement. The disease occurs due to excess weight, hormonal disorders, frequent hypothermia, heavy physical exertion. To stabilize the joints during movement, bone plates begin to grow in them. With sharp edges, they squeeze blood vessels, sensitive nerve endings, causing severe pain.

Osteoarthritis affects both large (ankle, elbows, shoulders, knees) and small joints (wrist, metatarsophalangeal). In addition to torsion in the joints, the following symptoms also occur:

• morning swelling and stiffness;
• redness of the skin over the joint.

In the future, there are pains that increase during movement, stiffness of movements in the morning, a crunch when walking.

At the initial stage of the pathology, treatment is conservative. Used (Ketoprofen, Nimesulide, Diclofenac) in the form of ointments and tablets, external (Finalgon, Kapsikam, Apizartron). Patients are recommended daily exercise therapy, massage and physiotherapy.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of inflammatory joint pathologies of various origins. The disease affects almost all cartilaginous, bone, connective tissue structures of the joint, including the ligamentous-tendon apparatus. With arthritis, one or more joints can be damaged, the pathology can be isolated or systemic. Some of its forms have not yet been completely cured, while others have been successfully treated and carried out quickly. In the initial stages, the disease manifests itself with the following symptoms:

• aching, pulling discomfort in the joints;
• redness of the skin, swelling;
• mild pain on palpation.

How to eliminate discomfort

First of all, the doctor determines why the joints of the arms and legs are twisted. This requires a number of instrumental and laboratory studies. X-ray, MRI, CT, arthroscopy are used, the level of rheumatoid factor and ESR in the blood is established. Depending on the discovered cause of discomfort, the doctor draws up a therapeutic regimen.

Massage, physiotherapy at home, yoga, swimming, long walks in the fresh air help to improve well-being. What to do if it twists the joints:

• warm baths for feet and hands. 1-2 drops of essential oils of lavender, lemon balm, thyme or infusions of oregano, eucalyptus, mint are added to the water;
• contrast shower combined with massage treatments. When kneading the legs or arms, any cream with horse chestnut extract is used, for example, from the 911 series;
• rubbing with mixtures that improve blood circulation. It can be olive oil and sea salt (a teaspoon of salt per glass of oil), lemon juice with linseed oil (1: 1).

Discomfort in the joints does not necessarily mean that they are affected by arthritis or arthrosis. In some patients, even after a thorough diagnosis, no pathologies are detected. In such cases, treatment is carried out with drugs that normalize brain activity. Some patients are helped by short-term use of muscle relaxants that relieve muscle tension.

Seeking medical help at the stage of the appearance of uncomfortable sensations in the joints allows you to start therapy in a timely manner, to avoid the development of severe complications. Therefore, one should not engage in unpromising self-medication, take pills on the advice of friends or pharmacists in pharmacies. After a thorough examination, the doctor will determine the cause of the pathological condition, conduct the necessary therapy.