Finger joints are complex structures enabling the hand’s dexterity, from gripping to delicate tasks. Each finger has three joints (thumb has two). Pain in these joints can significantly hinder daily activities. Understanding the causes of finger joint pain is crucial for managing discomfort and maintaining hand health.
Common Arthritis-Related Causes
Arthritis is a frequent contributor to finger joint pain, manifesting in several distinct forms.
Osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear” arthritis, results from cartilage breakdown. It commonly affects the joints closest to the fingertips (DIP joints) and the middle joints (PIP joints), sometimes causing bony enlargements called Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium), leading to inflammation, pain, and swelling. It often affects joints symmetrically, including those in the fingers. Early signs include tenderness or pain in small finger or toe joints. Untreated RA can cause cartilage damage and joint deformities.
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an inflammatory condition linked to psoriasis, a skin condition. PsA can affect the finger joints, sometimes causing an entire finger to swell, appearing sausage-like (dactylitis). It can also cause fingernail changes like pitting or crumbling.
Gout is another type of arthritis resulting from uric acid crystal accumulation in a joint. This triggers sudden, intense pain, swelling, and redness. Though often affecting the big toe, gout can also impact finger joints, including the thumb’s carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.
Injuries and Overuse Conditions
Mechanical factors, including acute injuries and repetitive strain, also contribute to finger joint pain.
Acute injuries can occur from sudden incidents like falls, sports impacts, or crushing forces. Common finger injuries include sprains (damage to joint ligaments) and fractures (breaks in finger bones). Dislocations occur when joint bones are forced out of alignment.
Overuse and repetitive strain can lead to inflammatory conditions affecting tendons and their surrounding structures.
Tendonitis is tendon inflammation, often caused by repeated motions that irritate tendons. This results in pain and tenderness, sometimes radiating into the hand or forearm.
Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is an overuse condition where inflammation narrows the tendon sheath in the affected finger. This narrowing can cause the finger to catch, lock, or pop when bending or straightening. A palpable nodule may be felt at the base of the affected finger, along with morning stiffness.
Other Potential Contributors
Beyond arthritis and injuries, several other factors can cause finger joint discomfort.
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps often developing near hand joints or tendons. They can cause pain if they press on a nerve or interfere with joint movement. Their exact cause is unknown, but they may be linked to joint or tendon irritation or arthritis.
Infections can also lead to finger joint pain, though less common. Bacterial or fungal infections (septic arthritis) can spread to a joint, causing rapid, severe pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. This usually affects only one joint.
Systemic lupus erythematosus (Lupus) is an autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation, including in the finger joints. Joint pain is common, often affecting smaller joints symmetrically. Unlike some arthritis forms, lupus-related joint problems typically do not cause permanent damage or joint deformity.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
Consult a healthcare professional if finger joint pain persists or worsens. Seek medical attention for severe pain, sudden onset, or pain following an injury. Other concerning signs include swelling, redness, warmth, or visible finger deformity.
Difficulty bending or straightening a finger, numbness, or tingling also warrants medical evaluation. If pain accompanies fever or general illness, seek prompt medical advice. Early diagnosis allows for timely, effective treatment, preventing potential long-term complications or joint damage.