Stiff hands and fingers

Stiffness after rest may reflect joint or tendon irritation, while stiffness after an injury can follow swelling and protective movement. Painful clicking or a finger that catches can occur with Trigger Finger. Aching, bony enlargement, and reduced use of particular joints can occur with Hand Osteoarthritis. Swelling in several finger joints or symptoms beyond the hand may be seen with Rheumatoid Arthritis. A slowly tightening palm and loss of finger straightening can occur with Dupuytren's Contracture. Numbness or tingling adds a nerve-related possibility. These descriptions are clues, not a diagnosis; a hands-on examination can distinguish overlapping problems.

Keep the hands gently active with comfortable opening, closing, and finger-by-finger movement. Warmth before activity may make motion easier, while brief breaks can reduce irritation from repeated gripping, typing, or tool use. Avoid forcing a swollen or sharply painful joint. Protect the hand after an injury according to the treatment plan. A physiotherapist or hand therapist can assess movement, teach exercises, and suggest support for a specific task. Keep a note of timing, swelling, clicking, numbness, and activities that change the symptom.

Arrange an assessment if stiffness lasts, returns frequently, limits work or self-care, or is accompanied by persistent swelling, warmth, or symptoms in other joints. Seek urgent help for a deformed finger, sudden weakness, lasting numbness, a cold or blue hand, or severe symptoms after an injury. Fever with a hot, swollen joint also requires prompt medical attention.

Ask which structures may be involved, whether you need imaging or hand therapy, and which activities to modify. Ask how to measure improvement and when to return if movement, swelling, or sensation changes.