Hand Arthritis

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Hand arthritis affects many people, particularly as they age. It commonly causes pain, stiffness, weakness, and loss of grip strength and flexibility in the fingers and hand. Fortunately, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can often alleviate symptoms and improve hand and finger mobility. While hand arthritis cannot be cured, appropriate treatment can significantly improve quality of life.

Symptoms

Hand arthritis can cause a variety of symptoms that may worsen over time. Common symptoms include:

Persistent pain in the joints of the fingers, thumb, or wrist
Pain may be sharp or aching
Stiffness or difficulty moving the fingers or thumb, especially after periods of inactivity (such as in the morning)
Swollen joints, which may appear red or feel warm to the touch
Reduced range of motion in the fingers, thumb, or wrist
Difficulty gripping objects or making a fist due to decreased flexibility in the fingers or wrist
Weakness and loss of grip strength, which can make it difficult to perform daily tasks like opening jars or holding utensils

If you experience any of these symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage the condition and prevent further joint damage.

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Types of Hand Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hand. The most common types include:

Osteoarthritis

The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. It commonly affects the joints at the base of the thumb, the ends of the fingers, and the wrist.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

This is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple joints in both hands, leading to pain, deformity, and loss of function.

Treatments

While hand arthritis cannot be cured, the following treatment options can help to alleviate symptoms and improve hand function:

Lifestyle Modifications: Individuals with hand arthritis will usually see improvement from limiting activities that put stress on the joints. This may mean modifying gripping techniques, avoiding certain activities, and/or using assistive devices, all of which can reduce pain and strain on the hands.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce swelling and provide temporary relief.
Splinting or Bracing: Wearing splints or braces can help support the affected joints, reduce pain, and improve function. Bracing is especially helpful for individuals with thumb arthritis.
Physical or Occupational Therapy: Some hand exercises can improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion for those affected by arthritis of the hand. A physical therapist can provide guidance on how to do these correctly as well as on adaptive techniques to reduce strain on the joints.
Surgery: For severe cases of hand arthritis that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be advised. Surgery aims to relieve pain and improve hand function. Techniques can include joint fusion, joint replacement, and procedures to remove damaged tissue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes hand arthritis?

Hand arthritis is often caused by wear and tear on the joints over time, particularly in cases of osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can also affect the hand and fingers. Genetics, previous injuries, and repetitive hand motions can increase the risk of developing arthritis.

How is hand arthritis diagnosed?

A thorough physical examination, including an assessment of joint flexibility and pain levels, is usually the first step in diagnosing arthritis. X-rays and other imaging tests can be used to determine the severity of joint damage. Blood tests may also be used to diagnose autoimmune forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Can hand arthritis be prevented?

While arthritis cannot always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding repetitive hand motions, and using proper ergonomic techniques during activities. Strengthening the muscles around the joints through regular exercise can also provide added support.

Is surgery the only option for severe hand arthritis?

For individuals with severe pain, loss of function, or joint deformity, surgical options may be recommended to improve quality of life. Surgery is usually considered only after conservative treatments (like medication, splinting, and physical therapy) have failed to provide relief.

How can I manage hand arthritis at home?

Home care for hand arthritis can involve using heat or cold therapy, taking over-the-counter pain medications, performing hand exercises, and using assistive devices to reduce stress on the joints. Modifying your daily activities to reduce strain on the affected joints can also be helpful.

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