Suggest Remedy For Painful Cramps On The Fingers

Posted on Sat, 9 May 2015

Question: It started in my feet, then I started getting painful cramps in my fingers when I am doing a task. Something like writer's cramp but it seems to be getting progressively worse. What is this? It's like the muscles contract and is very painful. It doesn't last long but is happening more often. Both hands and both feet. Today my left fingers have contracted multiple times. Should I see a doctor? What kind of doctor? Thank you

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (36 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
See a neurologist for proper management.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for your query.

After going through the description, I understand your concern regarding your symptoms. Most of the time, these cramps occur for no known reason, and they're usually harmless. In general, muscle cramps are likely to be related to muscle fatigue and nerve problems.

Infact, till date there is no clear cut evidence for the cause of muscle cramps. But the most common cited theories include -
- Altered neuromuscular control
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte depletion
- Poor conditioning
- Muscle fatigue
- Doing a new activity

Following measure will help-
*Drink fluid-An electrolyte imbalance can be the cause of muscle spasms, so rehydrating with an electrolyte drink can help restore balance.
*Stretch the affected muscle with a mild, static stretch.
*Use ice to numb the pain in a cramp, reducing inflammation and allowing the muscle to relax.
*Bring the affected muscle into a relaxed position and apply direct compression to the cramp.

If these cramps doesn't get better, see a neurologist for proper management.

I do hope that you have found something helpful and I will be glad to answer any further query.

Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Saurabh Gupta (2 hours later)

I don't think I articulated the cramps well. When I say they started in my feet, it started a couple years ago once in a while. A painful cramp would literally pull my toe in a different direction and if I straighted my toes it would eventually uncramp. Then about a year ago, the same thing started happening in my hands/fingers but they are more frequent to it's almost daily in my hands. They hand cramps are different; they only cramp if I'm doing something. My toes cramped when my feet were resting. For example, if I'm holding a book and I go to put it down then my fingers cramp up and don't release for a little bit. Very much like a writer's cramp except it could be writing, using a spoon to stir something, pick up an object. I'm not dehydrated, it isn't over use...it isn't that kind of cramp. Can't be muscle fatigue, I'm 54 but an active professional and this is just daily activities. It's odd. I don't have any health issues but I'm wondering if this is some early stage neurlogical disorder?

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (21 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Could occur due to altered neuromuscular control.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

These painful cramps in your hands could occur due to altered neuromuscular control. Seeing a neurologist will be helpful in your case.

Warm regards.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar