Hand pain is often due to inflammation of the tendons or cartilage lining the inside of a joint. Cartilage is the smooth, gliding surface inside all joints. Joints are lubricated with a substance known as synovial fluid.

Injuries and arthritis commonly cause hand pain. Multiple injuries or overuse can overload joints and cause inflammation. Arthritis involves inflammation of the cartilage lining the joints.

Persistent joint inflammation will gradually destroy cartilage. This will eventually cause joint damage and chronic pain.