What Causes Finger Joint Pain?
Finger joints are smaller and have less surrounding muscle mass compared to larger joints like the elbows, knees, or shoulders, making them more prone to injury and degeneration. Many individuals experience pain in their finger joints and seek medical help for relief. In some cases, the pain can spread to the entire hand, causing numbness or even paralysis.
When joints are damaged, rest is crucial for healing. However, fingers are constantly in use for daily activities, making it difficult to give them adequate rest, which can slow the healing process. So, what are the causes of finger joint pain or numbness? Here are 7 common reasons for this discomfort:
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of finger joint pain. It occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down over time, typically due to aging. OA can affect any joint, including the fingers, and leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Once the cartilage is worn down, it can’t be repaired, but treatments like medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and prevent further deterioration.
Research Insight:
- Arthritis & Rheumatology reports that 30% of people over 65 experience osteoarthritis, with finger joints being commonly affected in older adults.
Statistics:
- Approximately 27 million people in the U.S. suffer from osteoarthritis, and it is a leading cause of chronic pain (Source: CDC).
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks joint tissues, causing inflammation and pain. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA affects the whole body and often causes systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite, in addition to joint pain.
Research Insight:
- The Arthritis Foundation notes that early treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can lead to remission, with medications like biologics providing significant symptom relief.
Statistics:
- Rheumatoid arthritis affects 1.3 million Americans, and early intervention can prevent long-term joint damage (Source: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases).
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pain and numbness affect the thumb, index, and middle fingers. It happens when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to tingling, weakness, and pain in the fingers. It is commonly caused by repetitive wrist movements such as typing or using a smartphone.
Research Insight:
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that carpal tunnel syndrome is most common among individuals who perform repetitive tasks, such as typing and texting.
Statistics:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome affects 3-6% of adults in the U.S., with higher rates among people engaged in repetitive hand activities (Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke).
4. Tendonitis
Tendonitis occurs when tendons in the wrist or fingers become inflamed, often due to overuse. Individuals who engage in repetitive hand movements—like typing, playing instruments, or performing heavy lifting—are at higher risk of developing tendonitis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected joint.
Research Insight:
- The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy reports that tendonitis can be alleviated with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy.
Statistics:
- Tendonitis accounts for about 30% of hand and wrist injuries in the U.S. (Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons).
5. Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a condition that causes the finger to lock in a bent position and then snap straight. It happens when the tendon in the finger becomes irritated and inflamed. Trigger finger is more common in women, especially those between the ages of 40 and 60.
Research Insight:
- The American Society for Surgery of the Hand notes that trigger finger can resolve on its own in some cases, but in more severe instances, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.
Statistics:
- Trigger finger affects about 2% of people in the U.S., with middle-aged women being more prone to it (Source: American Society for Surgery of the Hand).
6. Cervical Disc Herniation
Sometimes, finger joint pain is not directly related to the hands, but rather to a problem in the neck, such as a cervical disc herniation. A herniated disc in the neck can press on nearby nerves, leading to radiating pain down the arm to the fingers. This is called radiculopathy.
Research Insight:
- Spine Journal reports that cervical disc herniation causes pain to radiate from the neck to the shoulder, arm, and fingers, and can be treated with physical therapy and, in severe cases, surgery.
Statistics:
- About 5% of adults experience symptoms of cervical disc herniation, with pain radiating from the neck to the upper limbs (Source: American Association of Neurological Surgeons).
7. Other Factors
Finger joint pain can also be caused by factors not yet covered, such as osteoporosis, fractures, or issues with tendons or ligaments. Overuse and repetitive motions can lead to tightness in muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the joints, resulting in pain, even if no obvious joint damage occurs.
Research Insight:
- The National Osteoporosis Foundation emphasizes that osteoporosis can increase the likelihood of fractures, including in the fingers, due to weakened bones.
Statistics:
- Approximately 10 million people in the U.S. have osteoporosis, and fractures related to this condition often contribute to finger joint pain (Source: National Osteoporosis Foundation).