Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: September 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Palm of Hand Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is a common cause of palm and hand pain, especially if related to repetitive motion (PRM). Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand, particularly in the areas supplied by the median nerve.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI): Given the context of PRM, RSI is a plausible diagnosis. It encompasses a range of conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system due to repetitive tasks, which can cause pain in the hands and wrists.
  • Ganglion Cyst: A common condition that can cause hand pain, especially if the cyst is located on the palmar surface of the wrist. It's a benign lump that can be painful, especially if it presses on a nerve.
  • Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but involves the ulnar nerve. It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand, particularly affecting the little and ring fingers.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Infection (e.g., Abscess or Cellulitis): Although less likely, an infection in the hand can be serious and requires prompt treatment. Symptoms can include severe pain, redness, swelling, and warmth.
  • Osteoarthritis: While more common in older adults, osteoarthritis of the hand can cause significant pain and should not be overlooked. It can lead to pain in the joints of the fingers and wrist.
  • Gout: A form of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness. It often affects the joint at the base of the big toe but can also occur in the hands.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the hands. It's rare but can lead to pain and swelling in the hands and fingers.
  • Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet. It can be primary or secondary to another condition.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that most often affects one of the arms, legs, hands, or feet after an injury or trauma. It's characterized by intense burning or aching pain.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.