Types of Hand Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent form, occurring “when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears away over time, causing bones to rub against each other.” It typically affects the thumb base and finger joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where “the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation.” Unlike osteoarthritis, it can affect multiple joints symmetrically across both hands.
Symptoms of Hand Arthritis
Common symptoms include:
- Pain, especially during hand-intensive tasks like typing or gripping
- Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after inactivity
- Joint swelling and tenderness
- Reduced range of motion, making activities like opening jars difficult
- Weakened grip strength
- Visible deformities or nodules in advanced cases
Management Options for Hand Arthritis
Lifestyle Modifications
- Using assistive devices to reduce joint strain
- Avoiding repetitive motions and taking frequent breaks
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress
Non-Surgical Interventions
- Heat and cold therapy for pain and inflammation relief
- Topical treatments with capsaicin or NSAIDs
- Hyaluronic acid injections for lubrication
Surgical Options
For severe cases unresponsive to conservative treatment:
- Joint fusion to eliminate motion and provide stability
- Joint replacement using artificial implants
- Tendon repair to restore function
