What should you know about one swollen hand in elderly?

Older adults may develop hand swelling after a minor fall or unnoticed impact; a Distal Radius Fracture can cause wrist pain, swelling, bruising, and reduced use. Rheumatoid Arthritis commonly presents with swollen, stiff joints and may involve the hands. Other possibilities include osteoarthritis, tendon irritation, infection, or pressure from a tight ring or prolonged position. Compare the affected hand with the other one and note warmth, redness, colour change, numbness, and grip strength.

Remove rings, rest from forceful gripping, and support the hand in an elevated position. Gentle finger movement is reasonable if it does not increase pain, but do not force a stiff joint or apply heat to a hot, red swelling. Check the skin for a cut or pressure area, particularly if sensation is reduced. Arrange assessment if swelling persists, follows a fall, or makes eating, dressing, walking with a support, or using a phone difficult.

Seek urgent care for severe pain, deformity, a cold or blue hand, new marked numbness, inability to move the fingers, or rapidly increasing swelling. Fever, spreading redness, pus, or red streaking up the arm can indicate infection and needs prompt review. If the person seems confused, faint, breathless, or suddenly unwell, seek emergency help. General information is available under Hand Swelling.

Could there be a fracture even if the fall seemed minor? Which joints or tendons are involved? Should imaging, blood tests, or a medication review be considered? What movement and support are safe while waiting?