Pain in the hand and fingers

The hand is an important part of the body with which we perform both simple and highly complex tasks. Because we use our hands and fingers all day long, pain in this area can cause considerable limitations in daily activities.

Anatomy

The hand contains a large number of different structures. Bones, tendons, capsules, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels and nerves all play an important role in the proper functioning of the hand. A problem with one or more of these structures can lead to unpleasant symptoms and injuries. 

Bones and joints
The metacarpus consists of five metacarpal bones, also known as 'ossa metacarpalia'. The ossa metacarpalia form the connection between the carpal bones of the wrist and the bones of the fingers. The fingers (also known as phalanges) consist of finger segments. The front, middle and back finger segments are called the phalanx proximalis, phalanx medialis, and phalanx distalis respectively.

The thumb has no middle phalanx (phalanx medialis). The joints between the phalanges are called the PIP, DIP, and MCP joints. Because these are hinge joints, they can normally only straighten and bend. The thumb has the characteristics of a saddle joint, which means it can move in multiple directions. 

Muscles and tendons
A complex system of muscles and tendons allows movement in the joints of the hand and fingers. There are no muscles in the fingers themselves. The muscles that move the fingers are located in the rest of the hand and forearm. The muscles pull on the finger bones through tendons so that these can move.

Tendon sheaths
To allow the tendons to glide smoothly over one another, they pass through tendon sheaths at various points. These are very smooth, fluid-filled tubes that protect the tendon from friction and pressure.

Capsules and ligaments
Passive stability is ensured by capsules and ligaments. These are rigid structures that prevent incorrect movements in a joint, which could, for example, cause the joint to dislocate.

Nerves and blood vessels
Nerves have many functions. They transmit signals that tell muscles when to contract. They also transmit pain sensations to the brain so that we can perceive pain. Blood vessels ensure proper blood flow through the body's tissues. Tingling, prickling, loss of strength, loss of sensation, warm or cold hands can indicate a problem with the nerves and/or blood vessels of the hand.

Check your complaints

Would you like to know which conditions might explain the pain in your hand or fingers? We recommend starting with the physiotherapy check. First, point to where you feel pain and then answer a few questions about your symptoms.

After you complete the physiotherapy check, your symptoms will be compared to the most common conditions in physiotherapy. If desired, you can visit a participating physiotherapy practice for professional help.

Conditions of the hand and fingers

Below is an overview of conditions that can cause pain in the hand and fingers. Each article provides detailed information on the symptoms, cause, and possible treatment. When you do the online physiotherapy check for your hand complaints, your symptoms are compared to all these conditions.