What should you know about very stiff finger joints?

Stiffness after rest that eases as you move can occur with hand osteoarthritis, which affects the joint surfaces and may cause aching or knobbly joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can present with swollen, tender finger joints and stiffness affecting both hands. A catching or locking finger points toward trigger finger, where a tendon does not glide smoothly. A cord or tight band in the palm that gradually pulls a finger inward is a common presentation of Dupuytren's Contracture. Finger Stiffness can also follow an injury, prolonged splint use, or irritation around a joint.

Notice which joints are affected, whether swelling or warmth is present, and whether the problem is worse in the morning, after use, or at night. These details help a clinician distinguish a joint problem from a tendon or soft-tissue problem.

Keep the fingers moving gently through a comfortable range several times during the day. Warm water may make movement easier before activity; use a cool pack wrapped in cloth if the joints feel swollen after use. Reduce forceful gripping and repetitive tasks temporarily, and use larger handles where possible. Do not force a locked finger straight or stretch into sharp pain.

Arrange an assessment if stiffness persists, limits dressing or gripping, or keeps returning. A clinician may examine joint movement, tendon glide, hand strength, and sensation before deciding whether imaging, splinting, hand therapy, or medication advice is appropriate.

Seek urgent medical care for a finger that is visibly deformed after an injury, suddenly numb or pale, or too painful to move. Prompt assessment is also warranted when a joint is hot and markedly swollen with fever, or when swelling and stiffness develop quickly without a clear cause. Make a routine appointment for persistent morning stiffness, progressive loss of movement, or a finger that repeatedly catches.

Could the stiffness be coming from a joint, tendon, or palm tissue? Which movements should I practise, and which should I avoid? Would hand therapy or a splint help? What changes should prompt earlier review?