What Does It Mean When Your Dominant Hand Cramps?

Hand cramps occur for numerous reasons, especially in your dominant hand, as you use this extremity frequently and repetitively throughout the day. If you've noticed increased cramping in your dominant hand, several possible health conditions explain this occurrence. 

When your hand cramps, it's difficult to make a fist or bring your fingers together without pain. The cramping is treatable, though different options exist depending on what's causing the discomfort. According to Medical News Today, mild cases of hand cramping are treatable with rest, ice packs, and light strength training to build your muscles and prevent adverse effects of overuse. Be sure to stay hydrated throughout the day and add a Vitamin D supplement to your rotation, and you'll notice a significant decrease in cramping, per Healthline. But for more intense issues, like low magnesium levels or carpal tunnel syndrome, you'll need to acquire some supplies to treat the cramping properly.

Here are the reasons your hand might be cramping up — and how to help soothe it.

According to Healthline, hand cramps are caused by a variety of things including dehydration, low magnesium levels, carpal tunnel syndrome, poor circulation, and stiff hand syndrome. In more extreme cases the cramping may be caused by rheumatoid arthritis or kidney disease, but these occur less frequently than other common issues.

If you're dehydrated and this is causing cramps in your dominant hand, drink a sports drink without caffeine to boost your electrolytes (per Healthgrades). Cramps that have developed due to fatigue or overuse of your dominant hand are lessened when you take a break from the main activity causing the pain, such as typing.

If you're experiencing low levels of magnesium, purchase a magnesium supplement or leafy greens and add these to your existing diet, per Healthline. This boosts your daily levels and helps prevent uncomfortable side effects, such as hand cramping, dizziness, and fatigue. In instances where the hand cramping is accompanied by other symptoms, such as a swelling sensation or decreased grip strength, you're likely experiencing the first signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. Set up an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss possible treatment plans, which can include physical therapy and over-the-counter medications.