Overview
Pain in the palm of the hand refers to discomfort, soreness, or aching in the central part of the hand, often affecting grip, fine motor skills, and daily activities. This symptom may arise from muscle strain, nerve compression, inflammation, or systemic conditions.
Pain in the palm is not a disease itself but can be a warning sign of underlying conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, arthritis, trauma, or infection. In Korea, advanced orthopedic and hand surgery departments, as well as physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, provide comprehensive care to treat and manage palm pain effectively.
➤ Discomfort or pain localized to the palm of the hand
➤ Can interfere with gripping, lifting, or fine motor tasks
➤ Early evaluation prevents chronic pain and functional impairment
Key Facts
➤ Pain in the palm can be acute or chronic, depending on cause.
➤ Common causes include nerve compression, tendon inflammation, arthritis, trauma, or infection.
➤ Associated symptoms may include numbness, tingling, swelling, or stiffness.
➤ Korean hospitals offer state-of-the-art diagnostics, minimally invasive treatments, and rehabilitation.
➤ Early intervention can prevent long-term functional limitations.
What is Pain in the Palm of the Hand?
Pain in the palm occurs due to damage or irritation to muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, or joints in the hand. It may be:
➤ Acute: Sudden pain due to injury, trauma, or infection.
➤ Chronic: Persistent pain from repetitive strain, nerve compression, or arthritis.
➤ Localized: Central palm or near the base of fingers.
➤ Radiating: Pain extending to fingers, wrist, or forearm.
The sensation can be sharp, dull, throbbing, burning, or aching, affecting hand function and dexterity.
What Symptoms Are Related To
Pain in the palm may be accompanied by other signs depending on the cause:
➤ Swelling or tenderness in the palm.
➤ Stiffness or limited range of motion.
➤ Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation (nerve involvement).
➤ Weak grip or difficulty holding objects.
➤ Redness, warmth, or bruising (trauma or infection).
➤ Pain aggravated by repetitive tasks, typing, or lifting.
➤ Visible deformity in chronic conditions such as arthritis or Dupuytren’s contracture.
What Causes / Possible Causes
Pain in the palm can stem from musculoskeletal, neurological, or systemic conditions. Common causes include:
➤ Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
➤ Compression of the median nerve at the wrist.
➤ Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain radiating into the palm and fingers.
➤ Tendonitis / Tenosynovitis
➤ Inflammation of tendons due to repetitive movements or overuse.
➤ Often affects flexor tendons, causing palm pain and swelling.
➤ Arthritis
➤ Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis affecting hand joints.
➤ Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the palm and finger bases.
➤ Trauma / Injury
➤ Sprains, fractures, or contusions from falls, sports, or accidents.
➤ Infections
➤ Bacterial infection (paronychia, abscess) causing localized swelling and pus formation.
➤ Systemic Conditions
➤ Diabetes or peripheral neuropathy causing nerve-related palm pain.
➤ Autoimmune conditions causing inflammation in hand joints and soft tissue.
When Should I See My Doctor
Seek medical attention if palm pain is accompanied by:
➤ Sudden or severe pain without obvious cause.
➤ Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers.
➤ Swelling, redness, or warmth indicating infection.
➤ Limited ability to grip, lift, or perform daily tasks.
➤ Chronic pain lasting more than a few weeks or worsening over time.
➤ Visible deformity or abnormal hand posture.
Early evaluation is essential to prevent chronic pain, permanent nerve damage, and loss of hand function.
Care and Treatment
Treatment of palm pain depends on the cause, severity, and patient needs.
➤ Conservative Care
➤ Rest and avoidance of activities that worsen pain.
➤ Ice or heat therapy to reduce inflammation and pain.
➤ Splints or braces to immobilize the hand in cases of nerve compression or injury.
➤ Physical therapy focusing on hand stretching, strengthening, and ergonomic education.
➤ Medical Treatment
➤ Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for pain and swelling.
➤ Corticosteroid injections for tendonitis or arthritis.
➤ Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
➤ Surgical Treatment
➤ Carpal tunnel release for severe median nerve compression.
➤ Tendon repair or joint surgery in traumatic or chronic degenerative conditions.
➤ Lifestyle and Preventive Measures
➤ Ergonomic adjustments at work or during daily activities.
➤ Strengthening exercises for hand and forearm muscles.
➤ Maintaining healthy weight and managing systemic conditions like diabetes.
Treatment Options in Korea
Korea provides comprehensive care for palm pain, combining medical, surgical, and rehabilitative approaches.
➤ Top Hospitals for Hand & Orthopedic Care
➤ Asan Medical Center (Seoul): Advanced hand surgery and nerve decompression procedures.
➤ Samsung Medical Center: Minimally invasive treatment for tendon injuries and arthritis.
➤ Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH): Specialized care for chronic hand pain and neuropathies.
➤ Yonsei Severance Hospital: Multidisciplinary approach including orthopedic, neurology, and rehabilitation services.
➤ Advanced Diagnostic Tools
➤ MRI and ultrasound for tendon, nerve, and joint evaluation.
➤ Electromyography (EMG) for nerve function assessment.
➤ X-rays for fractures or joint degeneration.
➤ Modern Interventions
➤ Minimally invasive hand and wrist surgery.
➤ Corticosteroid or PRP injections for tendonitis or arthritis.
➤ Guided physical therapy and occupational therapy for rehabilitation.
