Finger stiffness and pain
Finger stiffness and pain are common symptoms that can make everyday tasks difficult, such as making a fist, writing, or opening a jar. The symptoms may appear, for example, in the morning on waking, when the fingers feel stiff and painful, but they often ease somewhat during the day as you move around. Stiffness and pain may also be accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth in the joints.
The most typical causes of finger stiffness and pain in Finland are long-term inflammatory joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, in which the finger joints in particular may be tender, swollen, and stiff, especially in the morning. Other possible causes include osteoarthritis, overuse injuries, accidents, and rarer causes such as benign tumors (e.g. pyogenic granuloma). Sometimes the symptoms may also be related to other underlying illnesses or overuse.
The symptom is concerning if it is associated with severe swelling, warmth, redness, limited movement, or general symptoms such as fever. Prolonged or rapidly worsening pain and stiffness that interfere with everyday life should also be examined at a healthcare professional’s appointment.
Practitioners – Finger stiffness and pain
Aapo Nummi
Physiotherapy
Aapo Talonpoika
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aarne Kivioja
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aaron Matilainen
Physiotherapy, Sports physiotherapy
Adrienn Pardo
Internal medicine
Ahti Nordberg
Orthopaedics and traumatology
Aino Haarala
Physiotherapy
Aino Lepistö
Physiotherapy
Aino Pirttilä
Internal medicine
Aira Korhonen
Physiotherapy
Frequently asked questions
My fingers are stiff and painful in the morning – what could be causing this?
Morning stiffness and pain may be related to joint inflammation or strain, for example. If the symptoms continue or worsen, seek professional assessment.
When does finger pain and stiffness require a doctor’s examination?
If the fingers have severe pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or limited movement, it is advisable to see a doctor. Prolonged symptoms should also be checked.
Can finger pain and stiffness be prevented?
Regular exercise and caring for the joints can help with prevention. If symptoms occur, it is a good idea to discuss them with a healthcare professional.
Can finger stiffness be caused by something rare?
Finger stiffness can sometimes be caused by rarer reasons, such as benign tumors or other conditions. If the symptoms are unusual or sudden, seek professional assessment.