Patient Education
Hand Cramps (Focal Dystonias)
Hand cramps, sometimes referred to as writers' cramps or musicians' cramps, are types of nerve disorders. Unwanted movements, such as spasms, or muscle aches, such as cramps, of hand muscles may occur when writing or playing a musical instrument. They may also occur during other specific, fast-moving hand tasks. Technically, hand cramps or spasms are called task-specific focal dystonias.
Hand cramps and muscle spasms are much more common in men than women. Professionals may be more prone to hand cramps because they play at higher intensity, for a longer duration, and with more complex pieces. This may create more cycles of movement that irritate the nerve to the hand.
Causes
Several factors can play a part in hand cramps. Common causes include:
- Increase in time playing an instrument, such as piano or guitar, or performing a specific task
- Increase in more complicated motions
- Increase in the amount of writing
- Increase in the force required for writing, such as multiple carbons
- Increase in the type of pen or pencil while writing
- Change in the technique of practicing the same instrument or task
- Change in the size of the same kind of instrument or tool
- Increase in anxiety
- Some genetic factors
In general, intense and repetitive activities can result in hand cramps or spasms. In many cases, hand cramps occur after doing the same activity for years. The unwanted movement may begin only after a long, intense practice or writing session. Over time, the hand cramps may occur more and more quickly. When symptoms are more severe, just picking up a pen, instrument, or other object can cause the hand cramps.
Signs and Symptoms
Hand cramps are usually painless. They are not the same for everyone and may come in different forms, including:
- A finger straightening and losing grip on the pen or pencil, which is common in writers' cramps
- Finger or fingers feeling uncoordinated, which is common in piano and guitar players
- A finger either straightening or bending at the wrong time
For musicians, symptoms may also include anxiety and fear of performing. Some musicians have to restrict their performance style by playing with only the unaffected hand. Those who are paid to play may be more at risk than people who play for fun.
Treatment
People often seek medical attention for hand cramps if the symptoms are seriously interfering with important tasks. Hand cramps can be treated by neurologists, psychologists, rehabilitation specialists, hand surgeons, and hand therapists. Many times, these professionals use a combined approach to diagnosis and therapy. These services may be advertised as a clinic for the performing artist.
Treatment for hand cramps is variable. Because the problem typically lies within the brain and nerves, hand surgery usually does not help these cramps. Prevention is the best form of treatment. This may mean evaluating hand position during work or avoiding intense or prolonged practice, writing sessions, or the repetitive task that is causing the cramps. Sometimes resting from the aggravating work and doing other activities is helpful, similar to cross-training with different movements.
Other Treatment Options
Rehabilitation through motor training is another treatment option that has improved symptoms. Even touching many different objects or textures may help. Brain stimulation alone has not given predictable results and is still considered experimental.
You should discuss the best treatment option for you with your doctor and/or therapist.