Your hand has 14 phalanges, five bones in the middle, and eight bones that create your wrist. All those bones are supported by tendons and ligaments and are connected to other bones at joints. Human hands are capable of picking up the tiniest sliver of glass without getting cut or supporting the rest of the body as it dangles from a bar.
As you might imagine with so many structures performing such an amazing range of movements, a lot can go wrong with your hands, and the result is often pain. The expert providers at Dr. Louis Keppler & Associates treat patients who have hand pain that results from all kinds of problems, including some of the most common, like arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome.
One common question from patients with hand pain is, “How can I continue to do my job?” The solution, in part, lies in your job responsibilities as well as the underlying cause of your pain. However, there are some strategies that most people can use to manage hand pain at work.
Medication
In many of the conditions that cause hand pain, over-the-counter pain relievers are a good option. Talk to your doctor first, but if a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication is appropriate for you, it can be an excellent option.
If you can’t use an NSAID, you may be able to use a gel, such as Voltaran, to ease the pain in your hands at work.
Adaptations
If possible, see if there are ways to adapt that give your hands a break. For example, different styles of keyboards are available, and one could be easier for you to use than another. Voice dictation may also be an option.
Tools, positions, and other adaptations are often easily available and can help you get your work done. Discuss your situation with your provider as they may have suggestions or be able to refer to an expert who can help.
Exercises and stretches
Depending on your issues, strengthening the muscles of your hand and improving range of motion can ease your pain. It won’t work instantly, but it’s a drug-free, simple thing to do a few exercises and stretches.
Get expert help
The most important step in managing your hand pain at work is understanding its cause. If your hands hurt, seek medical care. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, along with many others, are all potential causes of hand pain. Knowing the cause of the pain gives you tools to deal with it.
Schedule an appointment at Dr. Louis Keppler & Associates today for an evaluation. Once we know why your hands hurt, we can start helping you learn how to manage that pain through a comprehensive treatment plan.
