Hand cramps can occur for many reasons and cause significant discomfort in some people. They are typically the result of muscle spasms or injury.
Often, hand cramps are caused by muscle spasms, which are described as an uncontrollable or involuntary muscle contraction. These spasms or contractions do not allow the muscle to become relaxed and can become excruciating in some cases.
Spasms, or cramps, are involuntary contractions that can occur in the hands. When spasms or cramping occur in one body part, health experts may refer to it as focal dystonia.
Under usual circumstances, muscle contraction is the result of normal processes within the body, including communication between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles.
When there is an interruption in the process of muscle contraction, muscle spasms and cramping can occur. Often, this pain resolves within minutes. Muscle twitching may also accompany muscle spasms or cramps and can be present during periods of rest or following a muscle contraction.
Possible causes of hand cramps include:
- electrolyte imbalances
- dehydration
- exercising in high temperatures
- overuse injuries
- diabetic stiff hand syndrome
- arthritis
The following sections describe these causes.
Electrolytes are substances in the body that are responsible for maintaining normal bodily functions, such as nerve and muscle activity, hydration, blood pH, blood pressure, and tissue repair.
Muscles require a harmonious electrolyte balance to function correctly, and an alteration in these levels can lead to muscle contractions and hand cramps.
For example, vital electrolytes for muscle function include calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium. Changes in these electrolytes can not only cause painful hand cramping due to muscle spasms but can also be life threatening in certain situations.
Electrolyte imbalances can be caused by several conditions, including but not limited to:
- kidney disease
- severe dehydration
- prolonged vomiting from bulimia, pregnancy, or other causes
- excessive heat
- pH imbalances
- congestive heart failure
- cancer treatments
- specific medications for blood pressure or water retention
Treatment for electrolyte imbalances will depend on several factors, including the cause and severity of the condition. Doctors will discuss a detailed plan of care to address this condition.
An overuse injury in the hand is often called writer’s cramp and may be associated with specific or general movements of the affected muscles that are used in fine motor movements.
Activities that may increase a person’s risk for developing writer’s cramp or an overuse injury include things, such as:
- writing or typing for a long period
- playing a musical instrument
- using an excessive grip on things, such as a pen, utensil, shovel, tools, or smartphone
- excessive wrist flexion
- elevation of the elbow
- finger extension
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the body attacks its healthy cells, causing pain in the affected joints and other parts of the body.
RA often affects the hand joints, which can lead to symptoms, such as:
Treatment for RA may include medications called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or biological response modifiers called biologicals.
Additionally, joint-friendly, low-impact exercises, such as swimming, walking, and biking, may benefit those with RA.
Those with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at risk for developing a condition called diabetic stiff hand syndrome. Also known as diabetic cheiroarthropathy, this condition limits finger movement and can cause spontaneous extension of the fingers due a complication of diabetes.
Sometimes, those with diabetic stiff hand syndrome experience:
- weakened hand joints
- diminished hand function
- finger stiffness and inability to bring fingers the together
- thickened, tight and waxy skin on the back of the hand
Managing blood sugar levels and keeping them within target ranges may prevent a person with diabetes from developing diabetic stiff hand syndrome.
Treatment options may include physical therapy, stretching, and exercises that promote hand flexibility and strength, such as throwing and catching a ball.
Preventing hand cramps depends on the cause of the condition. For example, if dehydration following intense workouts in excessive heat cause hand cramps, consider exercising in cooler temperatures and staying hydrated.
Other ways to prevent hand cramps include:
- stretching adequately
- avoiding dehydration
- practicing muscle-strengthening exercises
- undertaking low impact exercises, such as cycling, swimming, or walking
- using the correct hand tools to avoid exerting excessive force
Doctors will have recommendations on preventing hand cramps depending on the specific cause of the condition.
Underlying conditions should be addressed and treated by a qualified professional.
Home remedies may help relieve symptoms. These include:
- stopping any activity that causes hand cramps
- stretching the muscles
- massaging or rubbing the muscles
- applying heat or cold
- taking certain vitamins and supplements, although this will depend on the cause and a person’s medical history
- increasing fluid intake
As with any medical condition, evaluation and treatment by a doctor are recommended to treat the underlying cause of the condition. A doctor can also provide recommendations for treatment based on a person’s individual medical and health history.
In most cases of hand cramps, the cause is minor and not life threatening. However, there are some cases in which hand cramping is due to a more serious condition, such as Lou Gehrig’s disease, nerve irritation, or other diseases and conditions.
Hand cramps are involuntary contractions of the hand muscles. They can cause significant discomfort and limit hand function.
Hand cramps occur for many reasons, such as overuse, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or as a complication of other conditions.
People can try to manage and prevent hand cramps by maintaining hydration, stretching adequately, and stopping activities that cause cramping. If cramping continues, a person may wish to contact a doctor.