Swelling

Swelling in the hands and arms is common with many injuries and medical conditions. It is important to identify the cause so that appropriate treatment can be started and complications can be avoided.

Causes

Swelling can occur because of an injury to the hand or arm or because of a medical condition. Traumatic injuries, such as a crushing injury or broken bones, result in a lot of fluid rushing to the injured area. This is part of the body’s natural healing response. The body creates inflammation and delivers extra blood and fluid to the injury so that there are more cells and healing factors available for repair. Too much inflammation, however, can be painful and harmful.

Medical conditions can cause swelling as well. Arthritis commonly results in swelling of the hands, often in the morning upon waking up. Infections can also result in swelling, and these should be treated right away. More localized swelling from ganglion cysts or tumors should be looked at in your hand surgeon’s office.

Signs and Symptoms

Because of pressure build-up, swelling can cause pain and discomfort. In the hand, it can also temporarily reduce flexibility and mobility. If left for a long period of time, this can result in significant stiffness.

In certain cases, swelling can become so severe that it can reduce blood flow or injure nerves and muscles in the forearm and hand. This is especially true with severe fractures and infections.

Treatment

Swelling occurs mostly because of fluid buildup in spaces within the hand and wrist. This fluid often collects in areas that cannot be “pumped” out by the blood vessels. Keeping the hand and arm down allows gravity to keep the fluid in place and may allow more fluid to enter the hand.

Other steps that may help swelling include:

• Applying ice to the affected area or over the bandage, which can also help reduce pain
• Splinting or immobilizing, which can help stop more swelling from entering the hand or arm
• Taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen, when appropriate for your health
• Moving the fingers, wrist, and arm regularly if allowed with your condition
• Wearing compressive wraps, such as ACE™ wraps or Isotoner gloves, without applying them too tightly

If swelling is caused by an infection, call your hand surgeon or go to the emergency room for evaluation. If you develop numbness or tingling with swelling, especially after a traumatic injury, go to an emergency room immediately.

This mobile-friendly version is adapted from patient education content originally provided by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.