Finger joint pain can interfere with daily activities such as typing, writing, and gripping objects. It may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. While occasional discomfort can be managed with self-care, persistent or worsening symptoms may indicate a medical condition requiring treatment.
This article explores the common causes of finger joint pain, available treatment options, and when to seek medical advice.
What Causes Finger Joint Pain?
Several conditions can lead to discomfort, stiffness, or swelling in the finger joints. Recognising these causes can help determine the most appropriate approach to relief and management.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage between bones wears down over time, leading to joint pain and stiffness. The base of the thumb, middle joints, and end joints of the fingers are often affected. Symptoms may worsen in the morning, after prolonged activity, or in cold weather.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
This autoimmune condition causes the immune system to attack joint linings, leading to inflammation, swelling, and stiffness. Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the same joints on both hands. Morning stiffness can last more than an hour, and affected joints may feel warm to the touch.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis can develop in individuals with psoriasis, causing joint inflammation and pain. It often leads to entire fingers swelling, giving them a sausage-like appearance. In some cases, fingernails may show signs of pitting or separation from the nail bed.
Gout
Although gout commonly affects the big toe, it can also occur in the fingers. This condition results from uric acid crystals accumulating in the joints, causing sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. Gout attacks may last for days and often recur without appropriate management.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger occurs when a tendon in the finger becomes inflamed, making it difficult to bend or straighten the finger smoothly. It may cause a catching or locking sensation, particularly in the morning. Pain is usually felt at the base of the affected finger.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
This condition affects the tendons at the base of the thumb, causing pain and swelling in the wrist and lower thumb area. Repetitive hand movements, such as lifting or gripping, can worsen symptoms. Pain may also radiate into the forearm.
Treatment Options
The most effective treatment for finger joint pain depends on its underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. While some conditions respond well to conservative measures, others may require targeted medical interventions to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and preserve joint function.
Anti-inflammatory medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescribed medications help reduce pain and swelling, particularly in arthritis and inflammatory conditions.
Splinting or bracing
Supports affected joints by limiting movement, reducing strain, and allowing tissues to heal. Often used for conditions like trigger finger or joint instability.
Physical therapy
Strengthening and flexibility exercises improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and enhance hand function, particularly for arthritis and tendon-related issues.
Heat and cold therapy
Ice packs help control swelling and inflammation, while warm compresses ease stiffness and improve circulation in affected joints.
Corticosteroid injections
Targeted injections help manage severe inflammation and pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, offering temporary relief.
Disease-modifying medications
Prescribed for autoimmune-related joint pain, such as rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, these medications help slow disease progression and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Treatment Options (When Needed)
When joint damage is severe or symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatments, surgery may be recommended to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further deterioration. The choice of procedure depends on the condition affecting the finger joints.
Trigger finger release
A minor surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the affected finger to release the constricted tendon sheath. This allows the tendon to glide smoothly, improving movement and reducing pain. The procedure can be performed using an open surgery technique or a percutaneous (needle) release, depending on the severity of the condition.
Joint fusion (arthrodesis)
This procedure permanently fuses the bones of a severely arthritic or unstable joint, eliminating movement in the affected area to reduce pain. The surgeon uses plates, screws, or pins to secure the bones in place until they heal together. Joint fusion is typically performed when mobility is no longer possible without discomfort and is often used in advanced osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis.
Joint replacement (arthroplasty)
In cases of advanced arthritis, the damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with an artificial implant made of metal, plastic, or silicone. This procedure is commonly performed on the knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints) or finger joints (proximal interphalangeal joints) to restore mobility and reduce pain while maintaining hand function.
When to See a Hand Specialist
Seeing a hand specialist may be necessary if pain persists despite treatment, symptoms interfere with daily activities, or multiple joints become inflamed. A family history of arthritis or a sudden worsening of symptoms may also indicate an underlying condition that requires specialised care. Consulting a specialist helps ensure a targeted treatment approach for complex or long-term conditions, improving symptom management and preserving hand function.
Conclusion
Finger joint pain can result from various conditions, ranging from arthritis to tendon-related issues. Understanding the underlying cause is key for effective treatment and long-term joint health. While self-care measures may relieve mild discomfort, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
If you are experiencing ongoing finger pain or difficulty with hand movements, schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options.