Localizations

Pain in the metacarpals can occur in various areas. All the above-mentioned causes can also be the reason for pain in the area of the metacarpal bone of the middle finger. The middle and index fingers can also be affected by carpal tunnel syndrome, among other things.

The median nerve (nervus medianus) is chronically pinched in a carpal canal that is too narrow, a connective tissue structure on the border between the hand and forearm on the inside of the hand, which can lead to sensory disturbances such as tingling and sometimes burning pain, especially in the thumb, index and middle finger area. Shaking or massaging the hands often improves the symptoms. The constricting ligament can be split in an operation so that the pain and discomfort disappears.

In the case of the ring finger, too, all the reasons described under Causes can be considered, for example, a fracture of this very bone. Further examinations and possibly an x-ray must then be carried out to clarify the exact cause. As already described for “middle finger”, carpal tunnel syndrome is an alternative to the other causes and should be clarified in an interview, examination and testing.

The 5th metacarpal, which is located close to the little finger, is often affected by fractures, especially near the metacarpophalangeal joint. This fracture is also called “boxer’s fracture” because it often occurs in the context of punches against objects or the bones of other people (for example their skull). This fracture is treated in the same way as fractures of the other metacarpals.

Associated symptoms

In addition to pain in the area of the metacarpals, swelling can occur, usually as part of an inflammation or acute injury. Other sensations such as a tingling or electrifying sensation can also occur. This speaks for a nerve involvement.

A sensory disorder in certain areas of the hand must also be clarified – here there seem to be problems with the information conduction via the nerves. A hand redness is often of an inflammatory nature. A suspended functionality and overheating also speak for it.

Also the mobility can be changed. There may be stiffness in the adjacent joints or in the finger, which may be the result of joint wear and tear (arthrosis), or the area of the metacarpal bone may be abnormally mobile. In these cases, a fracture is suspected, which must be further clarified immediately. In the context of rheumatic diseases or tendosynovitis, palpable hardening can be found.