Hand Pain: Common Causes & When to See a Specialist
Hand pain is one of the most common reasons patients visit an orthopaedic practice — and one of the most commonly ignored.
Most hand pain comes from a small number of treatable conditions affecting the tendons, nerves, or joints. Seen early by a hand specialist, the majority are resolved without surgery.
Dr George Oduah provides expert diagnosis and treatment for hand and wrist conditions at Mediclinic Sonheuwel, Mbombela.
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What Causes Hand Pain?
The most common causes of hand pain are:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome — numbness, tingling and night pain caused by a compressed nerve in the wrist. Read our full carpal tunnel guide.
- Trigger finger — a finger that clicks, catches, or locks when bending, caused by an inflamed tendon.
- Arthritis — pain and stiffness in the finger joints or at the base of the thumb, often worse with gripping.
- Tendonitis (including De Quervain’s) — pain on the thumb side of the wrist, common in new parents and people doing repetitive work.
- Ganglion cysts — a firm, fluid-filled lump on the wrist or hand, sometimes painful with movement.
- Fractures and old injuries — pain that persists after a fall or knock may indicate a break that needs attention.
When To See A Hand Specialist
See a hand specialist if you experience:
- Pain, numbness or tingling lasting more than two weeks
- A finger that locks, clicks, or won’t straighten
- Weak grip, or dropping objects more than usual
- Pain or swelling after a fall or injury
- A lump on the hand or wrist that is growing or painful
- Symptoms that wake you at night
Early assessment matters: nerve compression and tendon problems are simplest to treat before permanent changes set in.
How Is Hand Pain Treated?
Most hand conditions are treated without surgery.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Splinting or bracing to rest the affected tendon or nerve
- Targeted cortisone injections to settle inflammation
- Hand therapy and specific exercises
- Activity and workstation adjustments
- Anti-inflammatory medication
When Is Hand Surgery Needed?
Surgery is recommended when conservative treatment has not resolved the problem, or when tests show significant nerve compression or structural damage.
Most hand procedures — such as carpal tunnel release or trigger finger release — are short, minimally invasive operations with quick recovery, often performed as day cases.
Dr George Oduah will always explain why surgery is (or isn’t) the right option before any decision is made.
Hand Specialist in Mbombela
Dr George Oduah is an experienced orthopaedic surgeon treating the full range of hand and wrist conditions, from nerve compression and tendon problems to arthritis and injuries.
Patients visit the practice from Nelspruit, White River, Barberton, Hazyview and across the Lowveld.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of doctor should I see for hand pain?
Persistent hand pain is best assessed by a hand specialist — an orthopaedic surgeon, such as Dr Oduah, experienced in hand and wrist conditions.
Does hand pain always need surgery?
No. Most hand conditions respond to splinting, injections, or hand therapy. Surgery is reserved for cases that don’t improve or involve significant nerve or joint damage.
Why does my finger click or lock when I bend it?
A clicking or locking finger is usually trigger finger, caused by an inflamed tendon. It is very treatable, especially when seen early.
Is hand pain at night serious?
Night pain with numbness or tingling often points to carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s worth having assessed, as early treatment prevents permanent nerve damage.
