What’s Causing My Hand & Wrist Pain?
Clear, practical guidance for common hand and wrist pain.
Common Causes of Hand & Wrist Pain
Hand and wrist pain often comes from a small group of common conditions. Start with the one that best matches your symptoms.
Stiffness, swelling, and aching in the hands or wrists—often worse in the morning or after activity. Learn how arthritis affects hand joints and what can help reduce pain.
Numbness, tingling, or burning in the thumb, index, and middle fingers—especially at night. Understand carpal tunnel symptoms and when treatment is needed.
Dupuytren's Disease
Thickened tissue in the palm that can cause fingers to curl inward over time. Learn how Dupuytren’s progresses and when to seek care.
DeQuervain
Pain along the thumb side of the wrist, often worsened by gripping or lifting. Discover common causes and ways to relieve inflammation.
Finger stiffness, catching, or locking when bending or straightening. Learn why trigger finger happens and how it’s treated.
Guidance from a Hand Specialist
As a nurse practitioner specializing in hand, wrist, and elbow conditions, I share clear, practical guidance based on real clinical experience — so you can take control of your pain one step at a time.
Find the Right Help for Your Hand Pain
Explore easy-to-follow guides for the most common hand and wrist problems. Learn symptoms, causes, and simple steps you can try at home — backed by real-world clinical experience.
Best Braces For Arthritis of the Thumb (CMC OA)
Highly recommended for its strong, reliable support
Allows good thumb use for everyday tasks
Feels stable without limiting movement
Potential downside: can press into the lower part of the thumb
More expensive than similar options
Despite the price, this is still the one I recommend most often
Offers light support with gentle compression
Made from soft neoprene for a comfortable fit
Allows limited mobility so you can still grip and pinch
Helps reduce swelling and stiffness
Provides relief from osteoarthritis or thumb joint irritation
Lightweight brace that fits either hand
Supports the thumb at a comfortable, ergonomic angle
Wraps around the thumb for secure 270° support
Designed to follow the natural curve of the hand
Thumb spica design stabilizes the CMC and MCP joints
Great option for anyone who needs extra support at night
Keeping the hand still during sleep can reduce swelling and morning thumb pain
Brace is somewhat bulky, which may take time to get used to
Provides excellent nighttime stability once adjusted to the fit
Highly recommended for added rest and recovery
How to Choose the Right Thumb Brace
Look for stability: Pick a brace that supports the CMC and MCP joints if you have arthritis or instability.
Decide how much movement you need: Light bracing works well for typing; firm bracing is better for pain flare-ups.
Consider daytime vs. nighttime support: Softer braces are better for daily tasks; bulkier ones help reduce nighttime swelling.
Choose comfort: Soft materials or breathable designs help prevent irritation for long wear.
Carpal Tunnel Relief
Simple tests, early symptoms, and proven ways to reduce numbness and tingling.
Wrist Pain & Overuse Injuries
Typing strain, tendonitis, sprains, and everyday wrist discomfort made easier to manage.
Hand Arthritis Relief
Gentle exercises and tools that help reduce stiffness, swelling, and morning pain.
Trigger Finger & Tendon Problems
What causes clicking or locking fingers — and how to ease it at home.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Did you know that over 3 million people in the U.S. suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome each year?
80% of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome cases improve with proper treatment. Find out how you can take the first step!
Mallet Finger Injury
Experiencing pain or difficulty moving your finger? Mallet finger could be the cause. Learn how to identify the symptoms, understand the treatment options, and start your recovery today.
Thumb Pain Arthritis
Is your thumb feeling stiff or painful? Learn how arthritis in your thumb can affect movement and discover effective treatments to find relief.
Trigger Finger