Comprehensive Guide to Hand Arthritis and Management Options

Posted on 10/30/2024

Comprehensive Guide to Hand Arthritis and Management Options

Hand arthritis is a common and often painful condition that affects the small joints in your hands, leading to stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Whether caused by wear and tear (osteoarthritis), autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, or other factors, arthritis can significantly impact your daily life.

Types of Hand Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hand, but the two most common are. Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form of arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away over time, causing bones to rub against each other. In the hands, OA typically affects the base of the thumb, the joints closest to the fingertips, and the middle joints of the fingers.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation. Unlike OA, RA can affect multiple joints at once and tends to occur symmetrically, meaning it can impact both hands simultaneously.

Symptoms of Hand Arthritis

Hand arthritis can manifest in various ways, depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

•          Pain: Persistent pain, especially after using your hands for tasks like typing, gripping, or writing.

•          Stiffness: Difficulty moving the fingers or thumb, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

•          Swelling: The joints in the hands may appear swollen or tender to the touch.

•          Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the fingers, making tasks like opening jars or holding objects challenging.

•          Weakness: Grip strength may be reduced, making it harder to perform daily tasks.

•          Visible Deformities: In advanced cases, the joints may become misaligned, causing noticeable deformities, such as nodules at the finger joints.

Management Options for Hand Arthritis

While there is no cure for hand arthritis, a variety of treatments can help manage symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance quality of life. Below are some of the most effective management strategies:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

•          Joint Protection: Using assistive devices like jar openers or ergonomic tools can help reduce strain on the joints.

•          Activity Modification: Avoiding repetitive hand motions and taking frequent breaks can help minimize flare-ups.

•          Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress on joints, particularly in rheumatoid arthritis.

2. Non-Surgical Interventions

•          Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat can help relax muscles and alleviate stiffness, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and swelling.

•          Topical Treatments: Creams containing capsaicin or NSAIDs can be applied directly to the joints for pain relief.

•          Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Injections of hyaluronic acid, which helps lubricate the joints, can provide relief in some cases of osteoarthritis.

3. Surgical Options

For those with severe hand arthritis who do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be an option. Some surgical procedures include:

•          Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): In this procedure, the bones of a joint are fused together, eliminating motion in the joint but providing pain relief and stability.

•          Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Damaged joints are replaced with artificial implants, allowing for improved movement and pain reduction.

•          Tendon Repair: In cases where arthritis has damaged tendons, surgical repair can help restore function and mobility.

Schedule a Consultation with East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity Today

Hand arthritis doesn’t have to define your life. With the right combination of treatment options, lifestyle changes, and professional support, you can manage your symptoms and maintain a high quality of life. At East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity, our team of specialists is dedicated to providing personalized care and innovative solutions to help you live pain-free.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of hand arthritis, contact East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options. Visit our office in Oakland, California, or call (510) 904-1100 to book an appointment today.