Question: I am a 44-year-old female and both of my hands and feet ache all of the time. All blood tests, scans (CT scan), ultrasounds, and X-rays show no problem. What could be causing this and what can I do about it?
Dr. Hibberd’s answer:
Aching of the hands and feet can occur for many reasons, not just from arthritis. Try a topical liniment such as Zostrix for local pain control. Sometimes a low-dose NSAID painkiller will help (such as Aleve, 200 milligrams, three to four times a day) . If pain persists or any redness is noted, seek professional advice.
Often a warm pack or even a gentle massage will help ease pain. Osteoarthritis will commonly cause subtle aches in the small- and medium-sized joints of hands and feet. These stiff joints usually improve with activity and motion as the day proceeds.
Perhaps other causes need to be considered for you? The first thing a doctor would need to do is to establish which areas are painful, and to determine where this pain actually (joint, tendon, ligament, bone). Is this pain is confined to joint areas only, or does it seem to run up a tendon? Or is it more generalized — suggesting a circulation problem or perhaps even neuropathy? Has there been recent trauma or injury? Is there redness with swelling, which suggests inflammation or infection?
Many disorders can cause painful hands and feet. Determining the cause will guide your treatment — whether it be occupational or physical therapy, painkillers, topical liniments, or other therapies.
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