Pain in palm of hand & fingers

[deebees]

Hi guys - I've been a long time reader of the forums and finally decided to join. I guess I'll get right to "talking tennis"...

I've recently developed a callus on the palm of my hand where the butt cap of my racket sits (exactly where Nadal has his). It was fine for a few months, but now is causing me serious pain in my hand, fingers, and wrist. I visited a doctor who took x-rays and tested for carpal tunes, but both came back as negative. My symptoms include numbness and tingling in my pinky and ring finger, difficulty making a tight fist, pain when pressure is applied on the callus area and once in a while pain/clicking in my wrist area located on the pinky side of my hand. I've been wearing a wrist brace, icing it and taking ibuprofen for about 3 weeks now. It's been 2 weeks since I last played tennis as well.

I have not changed my racket, strings, grip or anything like that. I've been playing a pure drive with big bangers@54lbs for a few years now. I have read about people changing strings, going to a softer racket, changing grip size etc. but never read anything about said persons symptoms.

Has anyone dealt with what I'm describing? My first guess is tendinitis or a pinched nerve. I am obviously going back to the doctor who mentioned he will most likely take an MRI, but I just wanted to post here for some feedback from you guys. Any input is appreciated!

 

[LeeD]

PD's are the stiffest playing rackets considered for good tennis.
Could it be a bone bruise in the heel of your hand?
Are you squeezing your racket too tight?
Is your grip old and hard?
Were you playing too much tennis for your tennis conditioning at the time?

 

[mawashi]

I'm no doctor but I have experienced similar pains when using very stiff frames n/or stiff strings combination.

It doesn't sound like carpal more like micro tissue fatigue damage. Similar to the numbness you get when you place your hand on a vibrating surface. The tiny shocks start to tear at the tissues.

Yes a softer frame and strings would be recommended.

 

[BlueB]

I'd suggest to start from gripping slightly up on the handle. Nadal is a bit extreme, where he holds his racquet. Higher grip would relief the troubled spot and at the same time reduce the movement of the wrist.