Dorsal Hand Pain

Dorsal hand pain refers to discomfort or pain located on the back or dorsal surface of the hand. This area includes the skin, tendons, ligaments, and bones that make up the top of the hand.

Causes

• Trauma or Injury: A fall onto the outstretched hand, direct blows to the back of the hand, or repetitive strain can cause pain in this area.
• Overuse or Repetitive Strain Injuries: Activities that involve repetitive movements of the wrist and hand, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or playing musical instruments, can lead to dorsal hand pain.
• Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or psoriatic arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the joints of the hand, including those on the dorsal surface.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons that run along the back of the hand can cause pain, especially with movement or use of the hand.
• Ganglion Cysts: These are non-cancerous lumps that can develop on the back of the hand, often causing discomfort or pain.
• Neurological Conditions: Certain conditions affecting the nerves, such as neuropathy or nerve compression syndromes (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome), can lead to pain in the dorsal hand area.

Symptoms

Common symptoms associated with dorsal hand pain include:

• Pain or tenderness on the back of the hand
• Swelling or redness in the affected area
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the wrist or fingers
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hand or fingers
• Weakened grip strength

Diagnosis

Diagnosing the cause of dorsal hand pain typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging studies (X-rays, ultrasound, MRI) to evaluate bone, tendon, and ligament integrity
• Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) for suspected nerve-related conditions
• Blood tests to rule out systemic diseases like arthritis or infections

Treatment

Treatment for dorsal hand pain depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for acute injuries
• Pain management with over-the-counter or prescription medications
• Physical therapy to improve range of motion, strength, and function
• Orthotics or splints to support the hand and wrist
• Surgical intervention for conditions like ganglion cysts, severe tendon injuries, or advanced arthritis