I definitely feel for you --I love riding in the hoods and when I swapped my bike to a flat bar it felt very odd. If you are having hand pain I would possibly consider Ergon grips, or a knock off. The Ergons are a bit pricey but from my brief experience they are quite comfy. Do you have large or small hands? maybe you want thicker or thinner grips....and of course a more upright riding position would be easier on your hands.