Hand Arthritis

What Is Hand Arthritis?

Hand arthritis is a condition that causes pain, stiffness and swelling in the joints of the hands and fingers. Over time, it can make simple tasks like gripping objects, typing or buttoning clothes, painful or difficult.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the hand, but it’s most common in the base of the thumb, and at the ends of the fingers. There are several types, but osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune arthritis) are the most frequent causes.

While there is no cure, early treatment and joint protection strategies can greatly improve comfort and hand function.

What Causes Hand Arthritis?

Hand arthritis can develop for a variety of reasons, depending on the type of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis):

• Caused by gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage over time.
• Often associated with aging, overuse or previous injuries.
• Most common in the thumb base and finger joints.
  

Rheumatoid Arthritis (Autoimmune Arthritis):

• Occurs when the immune system attacks joint lining (synovium), causing inflammation and joint damage.
• Can affect both hands symmetrically and may lead to deformity if untreated.
• This is a systemic condition, which affects other organs like the eyes, lungs, heart, skin and the spine.
  

Other Contributing Factors:

• Genetics: Family history of arthritis increases risk.
  
• Repetitive hand use: Activities that strain the joints, such as manual labor and gripping tools, may contribute.
  
• Injuries: Past fractures or joint trauma can lead to early-onset arthritis.
  
• Gender and age: Women and adults over 50 are more likely to develop arthritis in the hands.

Signs and Symptoms of Hand Arthritis

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of arthritis but generally include:

• Persistent joint pain or aching in the fingers, thumb or wrist
• Swelling or warmth around affected joints
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest
• Decreased grip strength or difficulty performing fine motor tasks
• Visible changes in the shape of the fingers or knuckles
• Clicking or grinding sensations during movement

In rheumatoid arthritis, additional symptoms like fatigue, low-grade fever and symmetrical joint pain in both hands may also occur.

How Is Hand Arthritis Diagnosed?

A hand and wrist specialist will evaluate symptoms, medical history and perform a physical exam to assess joint flexibility and tenderness.

Common Diagnostic Tests Include:

• X-rays: To detect bone changes, joint space narrowing or bone spurs.
  
• Blood tests: To check for markers of inflammation or autoimmune activity, especially for rheumatoid arthritis.
  
• MRI: To visualize early joint damage or inflammation not visible on X-ray.

An accurate diagnosis helps guide the best treatment plan and may prevent progression of the disease.

How to Treat Hand Arthritis

Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving joint mobility and slowing disease progression.

Nonsurgical Treatments:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (ibuprofen) help manage inflammation and pain.
  
• Topical creams or gels: Applied directly to painful joints for localized relief.
  
• Splints or braces: Provide joint support, especially for thumb arthritis.
  
• Heat and cold therapy: Heat relaxes muscles; cold reduces swelling and pain.
  
• Corticosteroid injections: Used to decrease inflammation in the joint to improve range of motion and decrease pain.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active and avoiding repetitive hand strain.

Surgical Treatments:

If nonsurgical options don’t relieve symptoms, surgery may be recommended.

• Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Stabilizes and reduces pain but limits motion.
• Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Damaged joints are replaced with artificial implants for improved mobility.

Treatment options depend on which specific joint is being considered for surgery – some do well with fusion, some arthroplasty, and some do best with resection (altering the joint). Your hand and wrist specialist will determine the most appropriate option based on joint damage, pain level and lifestyle needs.

How to Reduce the Risk of Hand Arthritis

While not all cases can be prevented, certain habits can help protect your joints and reduce your risk of developing or worsening arthritis.

Helpful Prevention Tips:

• Protect your joints: Use ergonomic tools and take frequent breaks during repetitive activities.
  
• Exercise regularly: Strengthen muscles around the joints and maintain flexibility.
  
• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can contribute to inflammation throughout the body.
  
• Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: Foods rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamins support joint health.
  
• Seek early treatment: Addressing joint pain early can prevent long-term damage.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, stiffness or swelling in your hands, schedule an appointment with a hand and wrist specialist. Early evaluation can lead to effective management and help preserve hand strength and function.

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