Swollen Tendon in the Palm of the Hand

The palm contains flexor tendons that help bend the fingers. Irritation around a tendon can cause tenderness, a thickened feeling, or pain when a finger bends. Swelling can also come from a joint problem, a recent cut or strain, infection, or inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis. A wrist injury, including a distal radius fracture, may cause swelling that extends into the hand. The location, timing, skin appearance, and finger movement help guide assessment.

Remove rings before swelling increases. Rest from gripping, lifting, and repetitive hand work, and keep the hand elevated when comfortable. Use a cool pack wrapped in cloth for short periods if it helps, without placing ice directly on skin. Do not massage a hot, red, or injured area, and do not force a stiff finger through pain. A clinician can check tendon glide, circulation, sensation, and nearby joints.

Seek urgent assessment for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, a deep cut, severe pain with finger movement, or a finger held in an unusual position. Immediate care is needed if the hand becomes pale, blue, cold, numb, or suddenly weak. Arrange an examination for persistent swelling, a growing lump, clicking with locking, or symptoms after a fall.

Ask whether the swelling follows a tendon, joint, or skin problem; whether imaging or blood tests are needed; and which movements should be limited. Ask how to protect function while the cause is treated.