Finger pain

Common causes of finger pain include sprains, arthritis, trigger finger and carpal tunnel syndrome.

You can help ease finger pain by keeping the finger rested, putting an ice pack on it, strapping it to the finger next to it and taking painkillers.

Finger pain is often caused by bruising or injuring your finger, but there are lots of possible causes.

Do not try and diagnose the cause of your pain yourself.

If you see a GP about pain in your finger, they'll usually suggest you try these things:

• rest your finger when you can

• put an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) in a towel and place it on your finger for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours

• use painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen gel (or ibuprofen tablets if needed)

• stop or cut down activities that are causing the pain – for example, typing, using vibrating tools for work, or playing an instrument

• remove any jewellery on the painful finger

• strap the painful finger to another finger next to it – put a small piece of cotton wool or gauze between the 2 fingers and use tape to loosely strap them together

• think about using gadgets or tools to make difficult or painful tasks easier – for example, to open jars or chop vegetables

• do not use heat packs or have hot baths for the first 2 to 3 days after an injury

• do not lift heavy objects or grip anything too tightly

• do not stop using your finger completely – after a few days, do gentle hands and finger exercises to help ease any stiffness

You can ask a pharmacist about:

• the best painkiller to take
• splints to support your finger and ease pain – flexible rubber splints are available if you still need to use your finger
• if you need to see a GP

You have pain in your finger and:

• it's stopping you doing normal activities
• the pain is getting worse or keeps coming back
• the pain has not improved after treating it at home for 2 weeks
• you've noticed a tingling in your hand or your hand is starting to feel numb
• you have diabetes – hand problems can be more serious if you have diabetes

Refer yourself for back or joint help

In many areas you may be able to get help, such as physiotherapy, from NHS community musculoskeletal (MSK) services without needing a referral from a GP.

Get NHS help for back or joint problems