Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. When arthritis affects the hands, wrists, and fingers, it can severely impact a person’s quality of life. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various tips and strategies for treating and managing arthritis in the hands.
Understanding Arthritis in the Hands
Arthritis is a term used to describe inflammation in the joints. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hands, including osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Each type has its unique characteristics and symptoms.
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and often affects the hands. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Common symptoms of OA in the hands include:
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- Dull or intermittent pain that can become sharp and constant over time
- Pain that worsens with use and improves with rest
- Stiffness and reduced motion
- Cracking or grinding sensations when moving the joints
- Swelling, tenderness, and bony lumps (nodes or nodules) at the finger joints
- Changes in the shape of the hands and fingers
- Difficulty using the hands for gripping and pinching tasks
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the joints. In the hands, RA can cause inflammation, pain, and deformity. Common symptoms of RA in the hands include:
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- Pain and swelling at the wrist and finger joints
- Soft and doughy feeling in the joints
- Stiffness, especially in the morning, lasting over an hour
- Reduced motion and grip strength
- Thickening and swelling of the tendons
- Changes in the shape of the hands due to persistent inflammation
- Fatigue, fever, and a general feeling of being unwell
Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that often occurs in people with psoriasis. It can affect the joints in the hands, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced movement. Common symptoms of PsA in the hands include:
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- Pain and inflammation
- Sausage-like swelling (dactylitis) in the fingers
- Changes in skin color and nail abnormalities
- Reduced movement in the joints
Identifying Symptoms of Arthritis in the Hands
Recognizing the symptoms of arthritis in the hands is crucial for early intervention and effective management. While specific symptoms may vary depending on the type of arthritis, there are some common signs to watch out for:
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- Pain in the hands, fingers, and wrists, which may worsen with movement or at rest
- Joint swelling, stiffness, and deformity
- Weakness in grip strength and reduced hand function
- Changes in the shape of the fingers, hands, and wrists
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Arthritis in the Hands
While there is no cure for arthritis, various treatment options can help alleviate symptoms and improve hand function. The optimal treatment approach will depend on the type and severity of arthritis. A healthcare professional will guide you in developing a personalized treatment plan. Here are some common treatment options for arthritis in the hands:
Hand Exercises
Hand exercises play a crucial role in maintaining flexibility, improving joint range of motion, and reducing pain. Physical therapy can be beneficial, as specialists can guide you in developing an exercise plan tailored to your needs. Here are a few exercises that may help:
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- Knuckle Bend: Start by holding your hand and fingers straight and close together. Bend the middle joints of your fingers, keeping your knuckles straight. Repeat this exercise several times with each hand.
- Fist Stretch: Hold your hand and fingers straight and close together, resting your forearm, wrist, and hand on a flat surface. Close your fingers into a gentle fist, wrapping your thumb around the outside. Repeat this exercise with each hand.
- Thumb Stabilization: Hold your hand and fingers straight and close together, gently curving your fingers as if holding a can or bottle. Repeat this exercise several times with each hand.
- Fingertip Touch: Hold your hand and fingers straight and close together, forming a circle by touching your thumb to each fingertip. Touch each finger to your thumb, holding for five seconds before releasing. Repeat this exercise with each hand.
- Finger Walk: Rest your hand on a flat surface, palm facing down. Move your thumb away from your fingers, then move each finger up and toward your thumb one at a time. Repeat this exercise with each hand.
Remember to perform these exercises slowly and smoothly, without causing pain. If you experience pain, stop the exercises and rest. Consult your healthcare professional or a physical therapist for further guidance.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Applying hot and cold packs can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis in the hands. Cold packs can be used to reduce swelling, while warm packs can alleviate stiffness and discomfort. Paraffin wax treatments may also provide relief. Consult your healthcare professional for guidance on the safe and appropriate use of hot and cold therapy.
Splinting and Support
Splinting and other forms of support can help manage pain and stabilize the joints. Protective braces, sleeve braces, and kinesiology tape can provide support and relieve pressure on the affected joints. Consult your healthcare professional or physical therapist for recommendations on using splints and supports effectively.
Topical Treatments
Topical treatments, such as capsaicin creams, can be applied directly to the affected joints to alleviate pain. Capsaicin, derived from cayenne pepper, has analgesic properties. However, it’s essential to use capsaicin creams cautiously and avoid applying them to broken or cut skin. Consult your healthcare professional before using topical treatments, as their suitability may vary depending on the type of arthritis.
Medications
In some cases, healthcare professionals may recommend medications to manage arthritis symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can help reduce pain and inflammation. Topical NSAIDs are also available for direct application to the affected joints. Other medications, such as acetaminophen or duloxetine, may be prescribed for pain relief. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics may be used for treating RA and PsA. Oral steroids or steroid shots can be administered to reduce inflammation. Discuss medication options with your healthcare professional to determine the most suitable approach for your specific condition.
Surgical Interventions
In severe cases of hand arthritis, surgery may be considered. Joint fusion and joint replacement surgeries are among the surgical interventions that can provide long-term relief and improve hand function. However, surgery is typically reserved for cases where conservative treatment options have been unsuccessful. Your healthcare professional will evaluate your condition and discuss surgical options if necessary.
Arthritis in the hands can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Understanding the different types of arthritis and recognizing the symptoms is essential for early intervention and effective management. By implementing a comprehensive treatment plan that includes hand exercises, hot and cold therapy, splinting, topical treatments, medications, and lifestyle modifications, individuals with arthritis can find relief and improve hand function. Remember to consult your healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations. With proper care and management, individuals with arthritis in the hands can lead fulfilling and active lives.
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About Tristate Arthritis and Rheumatology
Tristate Arthritis and Rheumatology is the first and largest Rheumatology practice in the Northern Kentucky area. Founded by Dr. Arthur Kunath in 1986, our rheumatology practice now consists of six doctors who are board certified in both Internal Medicine and Rheumatology and a Physician Assistant. Patients see one doctor (except in emergencies), thereby assuring continuity of care and an individualized docteor-patient atmosphere giving the physician the ability to establish personalized and detailed relationships. Our doctors have received numerous awards, including being listed as “Top Doctors” in Cincinnati Magazine, receiving the Patient’s Choice Award, the Most Compassionate Doctor Award, and the American College of Rheumatology’s “My Doc Rocks” award.
