Common Causes of Hand and Finger Pain

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel. Causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. 

Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)

Inflammation of the tendon sheath, causing the finger to "catch" or "lock." Causes pain, stiffness, and a popping or clicking sensation. Common causes of trigger finger include repetitive hand and finger movements (i.e. pressing keyboards), forceful or prolonged grasping (i.e. musical instrument), or due to injury to the finger. 

De Quervain's Syndrome

Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Causes pain and swelling at the base of the thumb.

Hand Fractures

Trauma or a direct blow to the hand, resulting in a fracture, usually during a fall. Causes pain, swelling, deformity, and difficulty using the hand.

Arthritis (Rheumatoid or Osteoarthritis)

Both Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis can occur in the hand. Causes inflammation of the joints, resulting in hand and finger joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.

Hand Tendinitis

Inflammation of hand tendons, often due to overuse or repetitive motions. Causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the hand.

How Our Integrative Approach Works

We believe lasting hand and finger recovery requires both tendon healing and energy balance. Our TCM physicians and physiotherapists often collaborate to reduce inflammation, improve dexterity, and prevent recurring strain. TCM promotes circulation and nourishes tendons, while physiotherapy focuses on flexibility, grip strength, and ergonomic correction for sustainable results in carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and joint pain.

TCM for Hand Pain

Experience the ancient art of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), a natural and effective method for relieving hand pain and stiffness. 

Our experienced TCM Physicians use various techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping therapy, moxibustion, and Gua Sha to restore Qi flow, reduce inflammation, and promote natural healing, offering a minimally invasive and non-surgical approach to managing both acute and chronic hand pain.


How TCM Helps Hand Pain

In TCM, hand pain is often associated with stagnation of Qi and blood along the meridians of the arm and hand, commonly resulting from repetitive use, overexertion, “wind-cold-damp” invasion, or joint degeneration. By improving circulation, releasing tension, and rebalancing internal energies, TCM therapies relieve pain, restore movement, and improve grip strength and flexibility.

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Acupuncture reduces pressure on the median nerve, easing tingling and numbness. Cupping therapy and Gua Sha release fascia tension from prolonged typing or gripping, while herbal medicine calms inflammation and fluid retention. 
  • Trigger Finger - Acupuncture relieves tendon sheath inflammation and restores smooth tendon motion. Moxibustion provides warmth to reduce stiffness and support flexibility. Herbs promote tissue recovery and circulation. 
  • De Quervain’s Syndrome / Mummy’s Wrist - Cupping and Gua Sha along the thumb base reduce swelling and pain from overuse. Acupuncture enhances blood flow to tendons and relieves tightness. Ideal for parents, athletes, and office workers with repetitive wrist motions. 
  • Arthritis & Joint Stiffness - Moxibustion warms affected joints, reduces “cold-damp” pain, and restores dexterity. Herbal formulas strengthen the joints and improve long-term mobility. 
  • Tendonitis or Chronic Overuse - Acupuncture and Gua Sha clear stagnation, release deep tightness, and improve blood supply to tendons, ideal for those with repetitive strain injuries.


TCM Treatments for Hand Pain

  • Acupuncture: Stimulates key acupoints along the hand, wrist, and forearm to relieve pain, improve blood flow, and reduce inflammation. Especially effective for conditions like trigger finger, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Cupping Therapy: Enhances circulation and loosens tight fascia and muscles in the forearm and palm, easing tension caused by repetitive hand movements or prolonged computer use.
  • Gua Sha: Gentle scraping along the hands and forearms helps release muscle stiffness, improve microcirculation, and reduce inflammation. It is beneficial for joint stiffness, tendon strain, and chronic hand fatigue.
  • Moxibustion: Provides warmth to promote Qi movement and alleviate “cold-type” pain, commonly seen in arthritic or weather-sensitive hand pain.
  • Herbal Medicine: Customised herbal prescriptions reduce inflammation, nourish joints and tendons, and support long-term recovery from hand pain or stiffness.


Benefits of TCM for Hand Pain

  • Reduces inflammation and pain naturally
  • Improves hand flexibility and grip strength
  • Enhances blood and Qi circulation for faster recovery
  • Releases fascia and tendon tightness through Gua Sha
  • Supports joint health and reduces recurrence

At Regis Wellness, our TCM Physicians personalise every treatment plan to target the root cause of hand pain. Whether caused by repetitive work, sports, or chronic arthritis, our integrated approach, combining acupuncture, cupping, Gua Sha, and herbal therapy, to help restore comfort, mobility, and hand function naturally.

Physiotherapy for Hand Pain

Our physiotherapy provides customised rehabilitation programmes to relieve hand pain, restore strength, and improve flexibility in the fingers, wrist, and forearm. 

Whether your hand pain stems from repetitive work, overuse, or sports strain, our physiotherapists design individualised plans using evidence-based treatments such as ultrasound therapy, deep tissue massage, and hot/cold therapy to reduce inflammation, enhance mobility, and promote long-term recovery.


How Physiotherapy Helps Hand Pain

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Manual therapy and nerve-gliding exercises reduce compression. Ultrasound therapy decreases inflammation, while ergonomic guidance ensures long-term prevention. 
  • Trigger Finger - Gentle joint mobilisation and soft tissue release restore finger movement. Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises prevent recurrence. 
  • De Quervain’s Syndrome / Mummy’s Wrist - Deep tissue massage releases tight forearm muscles; tendon-gliding exercises restore thumb motion. Education on proper lifting and ergonomics helps protect recovery. 
  • Arthritis or Joint Degeneration - Heat therapy and mobility exercises reduce stiffness; grip-strengthening drills maintain function and dexterity. 
  • Tendonitis / Overuse Injury - Ultrasound and manual therapy reduce inflammation, while progressive resistance training rebuilds tendon strength and endurance.


Physiotherapy Treatments for Hand Pain

  • Ultrasound Therapy: Uses deep soundwave energy to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in muscles, tendons, and soft tissues, ideal for tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or repetitive strain injuries.
  • Deep Tissue Massage: Relieves muscle tightness and adhesions in the hand and forearm, improves blood flow, and releases tension caused by gripping, typing, or prolonged strain.
  • Hot/Cold Therapy: Alternating temperature treatments help reduce swelling, relax muscles, and alleviate stiffness or nerve irritation for both acute and chronic hand pain.
  • Manual Therapy: Gentle mobilisation techniques restore normal joint alignment and improve flexibility in the fingers and wrist, helping reduce stiffness and enhance range of motion.
  • Rehabilitation Exercises: Tailored strengthening and dexterity exercises build hand endurance, improve grip control, and prevent recurring pain from daily or occupational stress.


Sports Physio for Hand Pain

Our sports physiotherapy programmes are designed to address hand pain and discomfort experienced during tennis, rock climbing, golf, weightlifting, and various other sports. These activities often place repetitive load and stress on the fingers, wrists, and forearms. Our comprehensive approach targets these issues through soft tissue release, grip conditioning, and sport-specific strengthening.

  • Relieve pain during and after training or competition
  • Improve grip strength, flexibility, and endurance
  • Enhance coordination and finger dexterity
  • Reduce inflammation and overuse strain
  • Prevent recurring tendon or ligament injuries

Whether you are recovering from tendonitis, carpal tunnel, or joint stiffness, our physiotherapy team combines manual therapy, targeted exercise, and ergonomic guidance to restore full function and keep your hands strong and pain-free.

What Sets Regis Wellness Apart?

Patient-Centric Care
At Regis Wellness, you're not just a patient; you're a valued individual. Our team takes the time to listen, understand your concerns, and work collaboratively with you to achieve optimal health outcomes.
Holistic and Integrative Approach
We believe in the power of integrative medicine, combining traditional and alternative therapies for a comprehensive and holistic approach to Hand pain management.
Professional and Expert Team
Regis Wellness medical practitioners have years of experience in pain management. Our commitment is to guide you on the path to relief and recovery with personalised attention and medical expertise.

Our Team

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Take the first step toward a pain-free life by scheduling a consultation with our expert team at Regis Wellness. Let us guide you on the path to relief and recovery.

Don't Let Hand Pain Hold You Back – Trust Regis Wellness for Comprehensive Care!

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FAQ

Accessibility & Support

What are Regis Wellness locations and opening hours?

Regis Wellness Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road Singapore, 427650

Click here to view our opening hours
Does Regis Wellness provide physiotherapy for kids?
No. Regis Wellness does not provide physiotherapy services for kids
Does Regis Wellness physiotherapists provide home visits?
No. Regis Wellness physiotherapists do not provide home visit services at the moment. However, please stay tuned for future service updates.

Appointment

How do I book an appointment?  

You can book an appointment via WhatsApp here. You may also call our hotline @ +65 9851 3720 to book an appointment.

What are Regis Wellness’s cancellation and refund policies?
You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment.
What happens if I miss my appointment?
No refund will be issued for missed appointments.
Can I do walk-in for treatment?
No, all services at Regis Wellness are currently by appointment only. Please book your appointment at least 24 hours in advance.

Finance

What are the modes of payment accepted at Regis Wellness?
We accept NETS, VISA/MASTER/AMEX Card, GrabPay, Paylah, Paynow. Alipay. Unionpay, ApplePay.
Can I receive subsidies using CHAS, Merdeka, or Pioneer cards?
Physiotherapy services provided by Regis Wellness are not eligible for government subsidies.
Can I make insurance claims for my visits to Regis Wellness?
Please check with your insurer about your physiotherapy coverage as well as the terms and conditions for reimbursement. Not all insurance covers physiotherapy, Regis Wellness cannot submit insurance claims for you.

Hand Pain Related Enquiries

When should I seek treatment for hand pain?
You should seek treatment if your hand pain lasts more than a week, worsens with activity, or affects your ability to grip, hold, or perform daily tasks. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications.
What is the best treatment for hand pain in Singapore?
The best treatment depends on your condition. Physiotherapy helps restore strength, mobility, and function. TCM treatments help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. A combination of both often provides the most effective and long-lasting results.
Is physiotherapy effective for hand pain?
Yes, physiotherapy is highly effective for hand pain. It helps improve grip strength, restore mobility, and correct movement patterns. It is commonly used for tendonitis, trigger finger, and post-injury rehabilitation.
Does acupuncture help with hand pain?
Acupuncture is widely used in Singapore for hand pain. It helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relieve nerve compression, especially in conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
How many sessions are needed for hand pain treatment?

The number of sessions depends on severity.
Mild conditions may require one to three sessions.
Moderate conditions may require four to eight sessions.
Chronic cases may require more sessions.

How much does hand pain treatment cost in Singapore?
Physiotherapy sessions typically start from $160. TCM consultation starts from $55, with subsequent consultations at $35. TCM treatments start from $65. At Regis Wellness, pricing is transparent with no packages or hard selling.
Can hand pain go away on its own?
Mild hand pain may improve with rest, but conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or trigger finger may worsen without treatment. If symptoms persist, professional care is recommended.
Do I need a referral for physiotherapy in Singapore?
No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist. You can book directly for assessment and treatment.
What causes hand pain from typing?
Hand pain from typing is usually caused by repetitive strain, poor ergonomics, and prolonged use. This can lead to tendon inflammation or nerve compression such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Is it better to choose TCM or physiotherapy for hand pain?
Both treatments are effective but serve different purposes. TCM focuses on pain relief and inflammation reduction. Physiotherapy focuses on rehabilitation and strengthening. Combining both approaches often provides the best long-term results.