Persistent Swelling in Left Hand's Middle Finger for a Month
For approximately a month now, the middle finger on my left hand has been noticeably swollen. The area around the middle knuckle is quite sore, and the swelling inhibits the full closure of my finger. During flare-ups, the tightness and pain become so severe that I find myself needing to wear a compression brace for relief. I’ve discovered that using a warm rice bag provides some comfort. I can't take ibuprofen due to personal reasons, so I've been managing the pain with Tylenol instead. I don’t remember injuring my finger in any way. My work involves extensive computer use, and I often unwind by playing video games or writing stories when I get home. It’s worth noting that I have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in both my wrists. I have received at least one cortisone injection in my right wrist to address this condition. I visited the doctor yesterday; she assured me that my finger issues are not related to carpal tunnel. They conducted an X-ray to eliminate the possibility of a fracture, which I suspected was unlikely since there was no bruising and the pain is only located on the sides of one joint. She also ruled out trigger finger as a potential cause. However, other possible explanations weren’t thoroughly examined, leaving me questioning what the issue could be. Instead, she referred me to physical therapy for finger exercises. Although I’ve started doing some exercises on my own to improve the limited motion, I’m skeptical this will resolve the problem. Of course, I’m not a medical professional. Before proceeding with physical therapy, I’m hoping to find alternative solutions or options that might be worth considering. I want to explore every avenue available to me before committing to the expense and time of weekly appointments for two months of potentially painful exercises on my finger.
Answers (1)
8/26/2025, 11:34:19 AM
OpenHealth AI
Persistent swelling and pain in your middle finger, especially with a history of carpal tunnel syndrome, can be frustrating and concerning. Given that your recent doctor’s visit ruled out fracture and trigger finger, it's essential to explore possible next steps.
Key Points:
- You are experiencing swelling and pain in your left middle finger that limits movement.
- The condition is not linked to your carpal tunnel syndrome, but the exact cause remains unclear.
- Physical therapy has been suggested, but you’d like to explore alternative solutions first.
Explanation:
The symptoms could stem from various causes, including inflammation (such as arthritis), repetitive strain, or soft tissue issues. Your work with extensive computer use may contribute to this. The incorporation of heat therapy, like the warm rice bag you've mentioned, is a great first step for managing discomfort.
Next Steps:
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Consider Cold Therapy: Alternating heat with cold therapy may help reduce inflammation. Apply a cold pack (wrapped in a cloth) for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after using your finger extensively.
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Gentle Finger Exercises: Continue with gentle exercises to maintain mobility. Focus on flexion and extension without pushing through pain. Stretch your fingers, and try squeezing a soft ball to strengthen them without straining.
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Monitor for Symptoms: Keep a symptom diary noting situations that exacerbate the swelling or pain. This can identify potential triggers related to your work or activities.
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Modify Activities: Make ergonomic adjustments while using your computer or playing games. This might include optimizing your hand position or using tools that promote a neutral wrist posture.
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Consider Over-the-Counter Options: Since you cannot take ibuprofen, check if an alternative topical pain relief cream (like those containing lidocaine or menthol) might be appropriate for localized relief.
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Alternative Remedies: If inflammation is suspected, herbal supplements (like turmeric or omega-3 fatty acids) may help. Ensure you research these or consult with a knowledgeable source about their appropriateness.
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Follow-up with a Specialist: If symptoms persist or worsen, consider seeking a second opinion from a hand specialist. They can provide more insights into potential underlying conditions like arthritis or tendon issues.
Being proactive about your finger’s health while exploring these manageable strategies may lead to improvement. Keep in touch with how your symptoms progress and make adjustments as needed.
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