Tendonitis in the hand is a common condition that can make everyday tasks—like gripping a coffee mug or typing on a keyboard—feel frustrating and painful. Whether it’s from overuse, repetitive motions, or a sudden injury, understanding how to treat hand tendonitis effectively is key to restoring mobility and avoiding long-term complications.
What Is Hand Tendonitis?
Hand tendonitis occurs when the tendons—fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones—become inflamed. This inflammation often results from repetitive hand or wrist movements and can affect anyone from athletes and musicians to office workers and manual laborers.
Symptoms typically include:
• Pain or tenderness along the wrist or back of the hand
• Swelling or warmth near the affected tendon
• Difficulty moving fingers or gripping objects
• A clicking sensation with certain motions
How to Treat Hand Tendonitis
When it comes to treating hand tendonitis, early intervention is crucial. Ignoring the signs can lead to more severe issues or even chronic pain. Here’s what our hand specialists typically recommend:
1. Rest and Activity Modification
One of the most effective first steps in treating tendonitis is giving the inflamed tendon time to heal. Avoid the activities that aggravate the pain and take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
2. Cold Therapy
Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and numb the discomfort.
3. Wrist or Hand Splints
A custom or over-the-counter splint can immobilize the area, giving the tendon time to recover and preventing further strain.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Medications
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can help decrease inflammation and relieve pain—especially in the early stages of tendonitis.
5. Hand Therapy
Our certified hand therapists at Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas can guide you through gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that promote healing without overstressing the tendon.
6. Advanced Treatments
If conservative methods aren’t enough, corticosteroid injections or minimally invasive surgical procedures may be recommended. Our board-certified hand surgeons offer advanced techniques that are designed to relieve pain and restore hand function with minimal downtime.
How Long Does Hand Tendonitis Take to Heal?
Recovery time depends on the severity of the tendonitis and how quickly treatment is initiated. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks, especially with rest and therapy. More persistent cases may take 6 to 8 weeks or longer, particularly if repetitive stress continues or if treatment is delayed.
At Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas, we work closely with each patient to create a custom recovery plan that fits their lifestyle and goals—so healing is as fast and complete as possible.
How to Prevent Hand Tendonitis
Preventing a recurrence is just as important as treating the condition. Here’s how to protect your hands moving forward:
• Stretch regularly, especially before and after repetitive tasks.
• Practice proper ergonomics—whether you’re typing at a desk or lifting at a job site.
• Avoid overuse by taking frequent breaks and rotating tasks when possible.
• Strengthen supporting muscles with exercises designed to increase flexibility and support.
When to See a Hand Specialist
If pain persists for more than a few days despite rest, or if symptoms worsen, it’s time to consult a hand specialist. Early treatment can prevent the condition from becoming chronic—and help you get back to doing what you love, pain-free.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
At Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas, we combine expert diagnostics, hand therapy, and state-of-the-art surgical techniques to provide comprehensive care for hand and wrist conditions like tendonitis.
Call today or request an appointment online to get started on your path to recovery.
