If you experience pain or discomfort in your hands while knitting, there can be several contributing factors, including the motions you’re using to make your stitches.  However, your knitting needles can also contribute to hand strain while knitting.  High-quality metal needles, like stainless steel, allow your stitches to glide smoothly without tiring your hands as quickly.
I recommend switching to interchangeable circular knitting needles.  Interchangeable knitting needles do not require your hands to support the weight of your entire project like straight needles do.  They are easier on the hands and easier to maneuver.
Another significant factor when addressing hand strain while knitting is the material your needles are made from.  Bamboo needles, for example, have a lot of surface friction, which does not allow the stitches to glide smoothly.
Plastic needles have quite a bit of surface friction as well.  Switching to a slick needle with very little surface friction allows the stitches to glide much more easily, which requires less effort from your hands and wrists.
Stainless steel is one of the best slick needle materials, and can be a wonderful upgrade if you experience discomfort in your hands and wrists while knitting.