Pain in the forearm and hand — especially when it’s sharp and triggered by quick movements — may be due to irritation of the muscles or tendons near the outer elbow. This type of irritation often stems from overuse, such as repetitive gripping, lifting, or typing activities.
One helpful starting point is rest, along with the use of a supportive brace. When choosing a brace, look for one that:
- Offers stiff support on the palm side to gently extend the wrist.
- Can be adjusted with straps or Velcro for comfort and stability.
- Leaves the thumb and fingers free for functional use.
In addition to bracing, gentle stretching and soft tissue work including massage can help relieve tension in the muscles of the forearm and hand. A physical therapist can guide you in these treatments and may also use hands-on techniques, such as manual therapy or instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. For self-massage, focus on areas of firmness or tenderness, but avoid pressing hard enough to cause additional pain.
Once the pain begins to subside, strengthening exercises for the elbow, wrist, and hand are typically introduced. These exercises are designed to restore function, prevent reinjury, and support long-term recovery.
If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or worsen over time, it’s a good idea to consult a licensed physical therapist. They can evaluate your condition and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. At Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy, Shared Decision Making is one of the pillars of our approach to patient care, an approach that puts patients first and makes sure their voice is heard.
Most insurance companies cover physical therapy services without a referral (direct access), so you don’t have to wait to get better!
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Whether you’ve undergone surgery, are rehabilitating after an injury, or are focused on maintaining and enhancing your movement and performance, we are here to help.
