After classes today, my left hand has been cramping and aching, particularly if I open/close it. Feeling better but not perfect after a short power nap. Not sure if it's a result of just being sore after 2 hours of classes where I spent most of the time holding mitts, or if these are the first signs of me inheriting my mom's arthritis early.
I imagine you already know this but the sensation of a muscle cramp, tendon/ligament injury, and a bone related pain are different.
A cramping muscle is akin to an uncontrolled contraction. When I do a lot of hand work, my fingers will cramp both in contraction and extension. Hurts like a b***h. One finger can be bent in a fist shape and the adjacent finger can be trying to open. Extended fence work is probably the worst for me.
Tendons/ligaments tend to sting or burn. I have flaring tendonitis/bursitis from time to time. The sting is real.
Bone or arthritis pain can also be a burning sensation but usually mine is just a consistent ache that may worsen in certain positions or ROM. Cold makes it worse for me as well. You will know if/when you get bone on bone (hopefully never). I have numerous Colles fractures (boxer fractures) in both wrist, I assume from years of punching hard targets and my fair share of hard falls. I definitely know when this area inflames.
Are you staying well hydrated (more than just water)? Good diet? Do you have to grip the mitts or are they the open hand style? Specifically, where are your hands hurting?
A quick test to see if it is true cramps is when you have the sensation, chug a large dose of mustard. My cramps ease up in a matter of seconds/minutes. From what I read, this is an indication of excess inflammation and/or mineral deficiency (specifically potassium & magnesium). Another test is simple ibuprofen. More of an inflammation reducer than pain blocker. Alternately, Acetaminophen is more of a pure pain blocker (yes, I am using blocker rather loosely).
A new 'pain' for me it an intense pressure sensation. I have had known back injuries for decades but they never gave me much issue until the last couple years. In my right buttock and heel, I get an extreme 'pressure' that is quite painful. Completely skips my leg somehow. Some kind of Sciatic nerve issue I assume.
Wishing you quick recovery.
