How Does Hand or Wrist Arthritis Progress Over Time?

Posted on August 18, 2025

Hand and wrist arthritis can be frustrating, limiting your ability to complete everyday tasks like opening jars, typing, or even turning a doorknob. Over time, this condition may gradually worsen, leading to more pain and stiffness. Understanding how arthritis progresses can help you protect your joint health and make informed treatment decisions.

Understanding the Stages of Hand and Wrist Arthritis

While the progression of arthritis can vary from person to person, it typically follows a predictable pattern:

• Early Stage: In the beginning, you may notice mild pain, stiffness, or swelling in your hand or wrist after activity. Symptoms often come and go, and many people dismiss them as minor overuse injuries.

• Moderate Stage: As arthritis advances, inflammation and joint damage become more pronounced. Pain may occur even during light activities or at rest. You might also notice reduced grip strength, joint clicking, or difficulty bending or straightening your wrist or fingers fully.

• Advanced Stage: In later stages, cartilage loss and bone changes can cause constant discomfort, significant stiffness, and deformity. Simple movements may become extremely difficult, and symptoms can affect both your work and quality of life.

When Conservative Treatments Are No Longer Enough

In the early stages of hand or wrist arthritis, conservative treatments such as splinting, activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy can often provide relief. However, as arthritis progresses, these methods may become less effective at controlling pain and preserving mobility. When symptoms persist despite these non-surgical measures, it may be time to explore other options.

Considering Arthroscopy for Hand or Wrist Arthritis

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions and a specialized camera to both diagnose and treat joint problems. For patients with hand or wrist arthritis, arthroscopy can:

• Remove inflamed tissue (synovectomy)

• Smooth rough joint surfaces (debridement)

• Evaluate cartilage damage and guide future treatment plans

You may be a candidate for arthroscopy if:

• Pain and stiffness continue despite non-surgical care

• Daily activities are significantly limited

• Mechanical catching or locking occurs in the joint

• Imaging shows damage that may be addressed arthroscopically

While arthroscopy will not cure arthritis, it can reduce pain, improve range of motion, and potentially delay the need for more extensive procedures like joint replacement or fusion.

Schedule Your Consultation with Our Specialist

Hand and wrist arthritis often starts subtly but can progress to significantly impact daily life if left untreated. By recognizing symptoms early and exploring all treatment options, you can better manage the condition and maintain function. When non-surgical care no longer offers relief, arthroscopy may be a valuable next step to restore comfort and mobility.

If you’re experiencing persistent hand or wrist pain, contact East Bay Hand & Upper Extremity to find our if arthroscopy or other treatments are right for you. Visit our office in Oakland, California, or call (510) 904-1100 to book an appointment today.