- I am over the age of 18
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you recall any specific trauma (e.g. car accident, fall, direct impact, twisting injury, landing from a jump, sports related, etc.) that caused your wrist / hand pain to start?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDid you notice an abnormal shape in your wrist / hand?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDid you attend A&E or see your GP following this wrist / hand injury?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upHave you had an x-ray or any other investigations for this wrist / hand injury?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDid you sustain a fracture?
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upHave you noticed an unexplained lump that is increasing in size in the wrist / hand region with progressively worsening wrist / hand pain AND a do you have a previous history of cancer?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker.
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker because of your previous history of cancer.
If you are still under the care of the oncology service, please contact the department urgently today for further advice.
If you have been discharged from the oncology service or are unsure, please contact NHS 111 immediately and mention to the call handler that you have a previous history of cancer.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDid you have a fever around the time your wrist / hand pain started?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you have ANY of the following symptoms:
- Confusion, slurred speech or difficulty making sense / being understood
- Blue, grey, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue — on brown or black skin, this may be easier to see on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet
- A rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it, the same as meningitis
- Difficulty breathing, breathlessness or breathing very fast
- Yes to any
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker because of your symptoms, which need further medical assessment to rule out infection or sepsis.
Please contact 999 immediately for further advice and guidance.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker.
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker because of your wrist / hand pain and previous fever symptoms.
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you have any associated neck pain or stiffness and pins and needles, numbness or a burning-type pain radiating in the affected arm since your wrist / hand problem started?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you have ANY of the following?
- An underlying inflammatory joint condition (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis)
- The skin condition psoriasis
- Any inflammatory bowel conditions
- Uveitis, also known as iritis, a condition that involves inflammation at the front of the eye
- Any recent infections (e.g. stomach upset, diarrhoea, other gut, sexually transmitted infections)
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker.
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker.
Please contact your GP practice and mention your symptoms for further advice and guidance.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs your wrist / hand pain constant during every minute of the day, including when you are at rest and disturbing your sleep at night?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou may benefit from a course of anti-inflammatory medication or a local steroid injection.
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you have pins and needles or numbness (with or without pain) in the area shown in this picture?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles or numbness get worse in the night, resulting in you needing to shake your hand to ease the symptoms?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo your pins and needles get worse when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a common cause of wrist / hand pain with pins and needles or numbness into the palm of the hand (thumb index and middle finger).
Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common, with around 6% of adults experiencing symptoms at some point in their lives. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome often improve within 2 to 8 weeks, though moderate to severe cases may take much longer to get better. Corticosteroid injections or surgery may be offered if symptoms do not improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep. Carpal tunnel night splints may also be helpful.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYour wrist / hand symptoms are more likely to be a problem primarily coming from your neck rather than your wrist / hand.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upWhere do you feel the pain in your wrist or hand region?
1. Whole wrist (with or without hand pain)
2. Radial (inside) wrist
3. ANY finger or thumb (with clicking or locking)
4. ALL fingers- 1. Whole wrist, with or without hand pain
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing a flare-up of wrist and hand osteoarthritis.
Around 1 in 4 adults will develop osteoarthritis in their hands during their lifetimes. The most common joints affected are the base of the thumb and the middle and end joints of the fingers.
Most acute flare-ups of wrist and hand osteoarthritis settle within 2 to 6 weeks, but it can take much longer to improve or even get worse over time if it is not managed properly.
It is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, avoiding unsupportive footwear, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, wrist and hand osteoarthritis can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for completing the symptom checker. Based on the information you provided, you may have sustained a soft tissue injury to your wrist or hand.
Soft tissue injury includes mild injuries to muscles, tendons, or ligaments. This can commonly happen if you stretch too far, twist suddenly or the wrong way or put too much pressure on your wrist or hand, causing a sprain or strain.
Mild soft tissue injuries can improve within 1 to 3 weeks, but more significant injuries can take 6 to 12 weeks to improve. Injuries like this are best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise and pain relief (if required).
IMPORTANT - While many soft tissue injuries are mild and can be managed with relative rest and simple exercise, sometimes soft tissue injuries can happen alongside wrist and hand fractures, which require prompt medical assessment.
If you have sustained a significant injury within the past 24 to 48 hours and you have significant swelling or bruising or any change in appearance of your wrist or hand, then please attend A&E for URGENT assessment.
If your injury happened more than 48 hours ago but within the past 6 weeks and you still have severe pain or swelling, please contact your GP practice for URGENT advice or call 111. You may be seen by a first-contact physiotherapist at your GP practice.
If you do not think you have sustained a significant injury, have only mild swelling or pain and no change in appearance of your wrist or hand, then you can try to manage your soft tissue injury yourself.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful in your knuckle joints when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Based on the information you have provided, you are experiencing symptoms of widespread multiple joint pains. Unfortunately, this is a complex problem and has many causes which will need medical assessment to plan treatment.
Please contact your GP practice to book an appointment.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful in your knuckle joints when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Based on the information you have provided, you are experiencing symptoms of widespread multiple joint pains. Unfortunately, this is a complex problem and has many causes which will need medical assessment to plan treatment.
Please contact your GP practice to book an appointment.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing a flare-up of wrist and hand osteoarthritis.
Around 1 in 4 adults will develop osteoarthritis in their hands during their lifetimes. The most common joints affected are the base of the thumb and the middle and end joints of the fingers.
Most acute flare-ups of wrist and hand osteoarthritis settle within 2 to 6 weeks, but it can take much longer to improve or even get worse over time if it is not managed properly.
It is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, avoiding unsupportive footwear, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, wrist and hand osteoarthritis can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for completing the symptom checker. Based on the information you provided, you may have sustained a soft tissue injury to your wrist or hand.
Soft tissue injury includes mild injuries to muscles, tendons, or ligaments. This can commonly happen if you stretch too far, twist suddenly or the wrong way or put too much pressure on your wrist or hand, causing a sprain or strain.
Mild soft tissue injuries can improve within 1 to 3 weeks, but more significant injuries can take 6 to 12 weeks to improve. Injuries like this are best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise and pain relief (if required).
IMPORTANT - While many soft tissue injuries are mild and can be managed with relative rest and simple exercise, sometimes soft tissue injuries can happen alongside wrist and hand fractures, which require prompt medical assessment.
If you have sustained a significant injury within the past 24 to 48 hours and you have significant swelling or bruising or any change in appearance of your wrist or hand, then please attend A&E for URGENT assessment.
If your injury happened more than 48 hours ago but within the past 6 weeks and you still have severe pain or swelling, please contact your GP practice for URGENT advice or call 111. You may be seen by a first-contact physiotherapist at your GP practice.
If you do not think you have sustained a significant injury, have only mild swelling or pain and no change in appearance of your wrist or hand, then you can try to manage your soft tissue injury yourself.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist / hand pain worsen and feel stiffer when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful in your knuckle joints when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Based on the information you have provided, you are experiencing symptoms of widespread multiple joint pains. Unfortunately, this is a complex problem and has many causes which will need medical assessment to plan treatment.
Please contact your GP practice to book an appointment.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Based on the information you have provided, you are experiencing symptoms of widespread multiple joint pains. Unfortunately, this is a complex problem and has many causes which will need medical assessment to plan treatment.
Please contact your GP practice to book an appointment.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful in your knuckle joints when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Based on the information you have provided, you are experiencing symptoms of widespread multiple joint pains. Unfortunately, this is a complex problem and has many causes which will need medical assessment to plan treatment.
Please contact your GP practice to book an appointment.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms.
- 2. Radial wrist
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist pain worsen when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist pain worsen when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful when pressing over the area highlighted in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your wrist pain worsen when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful when pressing over the area shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful when pressing over the area shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker.
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing a flare-up of a condition called De Quervain's tenosynovitis, which is a common cause of pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist.
This happens when the tendons that control thumb movement become irritated or inflamed as they pass through a small, shared tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist.
Around 2% to 3% of people will experience De Quervain's tenosynovitis at some point in their lives, and women are 8 to 10 times more likely to get it than men. It is also common in new mums.
Mild cases of De Quervain's tenosynovitis often improve within 2 to 6 weeks if it is managed properly, though moderate cases may take between 6 to 12 weeks to improve and medication may be required. You will need to discuss this with a pharmacist if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Unfortunately, some cases can take 3 to 6 months or more to get better and require supportive physiotherapy rehabilitation, an injection or, in rare cases, surgery.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is best managed with an active approach which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), using a thumb spica splint, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, De Quervains Tenosynovitis can worsen over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful when pressing over the area shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
We are unable to complete the self-management symptom checker.
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing a flare-up of a condition called De Quervain's tenosynovitis, which is a common cause of pain and swelling on the thumb side of the wrist.
This happens when the tendons that control thumb movement become irritated or inflamed as they pass through a small, shared tunnel on the thumb side of the wrist.
Around 2% to 3% of people will experience De Quervain's tenosynovitis at some point in their lives, and women are 8 to 10 times more likely to get it than men. It is also common in new mums.
Mild cases of De Quervain's tenosynovitis often improve within 2 to 6 weeks if it is managed properly, though moderate cases may take between 6 to 12 weeks to improve and medication may be required. You will need to discuss this with a pharmacist if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Unfortunately, some cases can take 3 to 6 months or more to get better and require supportive physiotherapy rehabilitation, an injection or, in rare cases, surgery.
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is best managed with an active approach which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), using a thumb spica splint, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, De Quervains Tenosynovitis can worsen over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- 3. ANY finger or thumb, with clicking or locking
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs your finger(s) or thumb permanently stuck or locked into a flexed position, as shown in these images?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upCan you unlock your finger(s) or thumb and straighten it with help from your other hand, as shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your finger(s) or thumb lock or catch, as demonstrated in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing symptoms of trigger finger or thumb, which involves swelling and irritation of the tendons on the palm side of the hand.
About 2% to 3% of people will develop trigger finger or thumb at some point in their lives. It is much more common in people with diabetes (affecting 1 person in 10) and in those who do repetitive gripping or manual work like gardening.
Around half of trigger finger cases get better within 8 months, even without treatment, and the thumb is most likely to recover on its own. Mild cases can improve with rest and gentle exercise within 6 weeks. Moderate cases may need anti-inflammatory gel (please discuss this with a pharmacist) and a trigger finger splint or may require a steroid injection. If symptoms are severe and have not responded to treatment, surgery is sometimes required.
Trigger finger is best managed with an active approach which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), using a trigger finger splint, movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, trigger finger can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs there any visible thickening in the palm of your hand, as shown in this image?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture, which involves developing thickened fibrous cords in the palm of the hand.
Around 3 in 100 people will develop some symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture in their lifetimes. It is more common in males, those with a family history, northern Europeans and in people with diabetes or epilepsy. Lifestyle factors also play an important role, including smoking and drinking excess alcohol.
In most mild cases of Dupuytren's contracture, stretching the hands and addressing any contributing lifestyle factors is all that is required. However, if symptoms become bothersome, surgical treatment can be offered. This is usually when the deformity stops you from being able to put your hand flat on a table. If contractures are left to get too severe then surgical treatment is less likely to be successful.
If your fingers do start to contract, please read the self-help and decision-making advice and then contact your GP practice to discuss the most appropriate management plan.
Find self-help and decision-making advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, Dupuytren's contracture can get worse over time, and lifestyle factors can be a cause of this. Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing continuing pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDo you have a family history (blood relative) with Dupuytren's contracture?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely to be experiencing symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture, which involves developing thickened fibrous cords in the palm of the hand.
Around 3 in 100 people will develop some symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture in their lifetimes. It is more common in males, those with a family history, northern Europeans and in people with diabetes or epilepsy. Lifestyle factors also play an important role, including smoking and drinking excess alcohol.
In most mild cases of Dupuytren's contracture, stretching the hands and addressing any contributing lifestyle factors is all that is required. However, if symptoms become bothersome, surgical treatment can be offered. This is usually when the deformity stops you from being able to put your hand flat on a table. If contractures are left to get too severe then surgical treatment is less likely to be successful.
If your fingers do start to contract, please read the self-help and decision-making advice and then contact your GP practice to discuss the most appropriate management plan.
Find self-help and decision-making advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, Dupuytren's contracture can get worse over time, and lifestyle factors can be a cause of this. Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing continuing pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker.
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your finger(s) or thumb lock or catch, as demonstrated in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs it painful when pressing over the area highlighted in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing symptoms of trigger finger or thumb, which involves swelling and irritation of the tendons on the palm side of the hand.
About 2% to 3% of people will develop trigger finger or thumb at some point in their lives. It is much more common in people with diabetes (affecting 1 person in 10) and in those who do repetitive gripping or manual work like gardening.
Around half of trigger finger cases get better within 8 months, even without treatment, and the thumb is most likely to recover on its own. Mild cases can improve with rest and gentle exercise within 6 weeks. Moderate cases may need anti-inflammatory gel (please discuss this with a pharmacist) and a trigger finger splint or may require a steroid injection. If symptoms are severe and have not responded to treatment, surgery is sometimes required.
Trigger finger is best managed with an active approach which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), using a trigger finger splint, movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, trigger finger can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs there a small lump in any of the areas shown in this image?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing symptoms of trigger finger or thumb, which involves swelling and irritation of the tendons on the palm side of the hand.
About 2% to 3% of people will develop trigger finger or thumb at some point in their lives. It is much more common in people with diabetes (affecting 1 person in 10) and in those who do repetitive gripping or manual work like gardening.
Around half of trigger finger cases get better within 8 months, even without treatment, and the thumb is most likely to recover on its own. Mild cases can improve with rest and gentle exercise within 6 weeks. Moderate cases may need anti-inflammatory gel (please discuss this with a pharmacist) and a trigger finger splint or may require a steroid injection. If symptoms are severe and have not responded to treatment, surgery is sometimes required.
Trigger finger is best managed with an active approach which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), using a trigger finger splint, movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, trigger finger can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upAre both of your hands equally affected?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upAre all of your fingers affected?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upDoes your pain worsen when performing the test shown in this video?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upAre your finger joints hot, red or swollen to touch?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upAre all of your fingers affected?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upHave your fingers changed in appearance with thickening or deformity around the joints of your hand?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upYou are likely experiencing a flare-up of wrist and hand osteoarthritis.
Around 1 in 4 adults will develop osteoarthritis in their hands during their lifetimes. The most common joints affected are the base of the thumb and the middle and end joints of the fingers.
Most acute flare-ups of wrist and hand osteoarthritis settle within 2 to 6 weeks, but it can take much longer to improve or even get worse over time if it is not managed properly.
It is best managed with an active approach, which includes relative rest (resting just enough to allow symptoms to settle but staying active to maintain your movement and strength), movement, exercise, pain relief (if required) and addressing lifestyle factors such as weight loss, avoiding unsupportive footwear, quitting smoking and seeking help for any problems with mental health or poor sleep.
Find further self-help advice and suggested exercises
(You will need to enter 2025 where asked to 'Enter your year of birth')
Unfortunately, wrist and hand osteoarthritis can get worse over time if it is not properly managed and develop into persistent pain, which is complex and harder to treat. Persistent pain is complex and can be associated with lifestyle or psychological factors.
Find tips and advice on how to improve your overall health and wellbeing and reduce your risk of developing persistent pain on the NHS Better Health website.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice to discuss making an appointment with a GP or a first-contact physiotherapist.
You need a further assessment to provide an accurate diagnosis for your condition and for advice on how you can manage this.
You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- 4. ALL fingers
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upThank you for using the symptom checker
Please contact your GP practice for further advice and guidance, and mention your symptoms. You may need tests to rule out any rheumatological conditions.
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs your pain constant (24 hours) and / or worse at night?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upIs there any pain when you press in the area shown in this picture?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
Back upHave you had any left-sided or central chest pain or arm symptoms (e.g. pain or tingling) in the last 24 hours?
- Yes
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- No
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- I am over the age of 18
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18
- I am under the age of 18
- I am over the age of 18I am under the age of 18