How Can Prolonged Arthritis Cause Permanent Damage to Your Hands?

Posted on 04/28/2025

Arthritis is often a chronic condition that, over time, can significantly impact your quality of life. When arthritis affects the hands, it can interfere with even the most basic daily tasks, such as opening a jar, buttoning a shirt, or holding a pen. Left unmanaged, prolonged arthritis can cause permanent damage to your hands, affecting both their function and appearance.
 

The Long-Term Effects of Untreated Arthritis in the Hands

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hands, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Regardless of type, the result of chronic inflammation in the hand joints is gradual but progressive damage to cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and bone. Over time, this can lead to:
 

• Joint Deformity: Persistent inflammation may alter the alignment of joints, leading to visible deformities like swan neck or boutonnière deformities.

• Loss of Motion: Damage to the cartilage and joint structures can restrict movement, making the hand feel stiff or frozen.

• Muscle Weakness: Inactivity due to pain or stiffness can cause surrounding muscles to weaken and atrophy.

• Bone Erosion and Fusion: Particularly in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the bone may begin to erode or fuse, leading to irreversible joint dysfunction.

• Chronic Pain: As damage progresses, pain may no longer be associated with activity and could become constant.

What is Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat joint problems. It involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to view the joint interior in real-time and treat damaged tissue simultaneously. In the hands and wrists, arthroscopy can be used to remove inflamed tissue, smooth worn cartilage, or correct mechanical issues contributing to pain and dysfunction. Because it requires smaller incisions and less tissue disruption than traditional open surgery, arthroscopy often leads to shorter recovery times and less postoperative discomfort, making it a valuable option for those looking to regain function and reduce arthritis-related pain.
 

When Should You Consider Arthroscopic Surgery?

While conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications can slow progression and manage symptoms, they may not be enough in advanced cases. Arthroscopic surgery becomes a viable option when:
 

• Non-surgical treatments fail to relieve pain or improve function.

• Joint damage is visibly progressing and limiting mobility.

• You experience persistent swelling or instability in the hand or wrist.

• Diagnostic imaging reveals cartilage loss, loose bodies, or other correctable structural damage.

Take the First Step Toward Relief and Restored Function

Arthritis in the hands isn’t just a nuisance - it can be a progressive, damaging condition if not properly managed. If you’re experiencing chronic pain, swelling, or difficulty using your hands, it’s important to seek evaluation early. Timely diagnosis and intervention can slow progression and preserve function. In some cases, arthroscopic surgery can offer relief and restore movement before the damage becomes permanent.
 

At East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of hand and wrist conditions, including arthritis. If you’re struggling with ongoing pain or stiffness in your hands, schedule a consultation to explore your treatment options and see if arthroscopic surgery might be right for you. Visit our office in Oakland, California, or call (510) 904-1100 today.