Managing Arthritis in the Hands: Tips and Treatments

The hand has a complex interplay of bones, joints, muscles, and nerves that allows for both powerful grips and the most delicate of movements. When arthritis strikes this vital part of the body, the impact on daily life can be profound, turning simple tasks into frustrating challenges. This means a proactive approach is needed when it comes to pain management.

At Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, we are dedicated to providing outstanding care that helps our patients navigate the complexities of hand arthritis and regain control over their lives. We provide specialized hand and wrist care, integrated occupational therapy, and additional supportive treatments to help you regain control. Let us illuminate the path toward managing hand arthritis with insights into its development, diagnostic processes, and the spectrum of available solutions.

Hand Arthritis: What It Is and How It Develops

Hand arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions your joints begins to break down, causing bones to rub against each other during movement. This degenerative condition most commonly affects the joints in your fingers, thumbs, and wrists, where repetitive motion and daily wear take their toll over time. Simple tasks that you once performed without thinking, like opening jars, typing on a keyboard, or buttoning your shirt, can become increasingly difficult and painful.

The condition typically develops gradually, with symptoms including morning stiffness that lasts longer than usual, swelling around affected joints, persistent aching or throbbing pain, and noticeable reduction in your range of motion. You might also notice that your grip strength has weakened, making it harder to hold objects securely or perform tasks that require fine motor control.

Diagnosing Arthritis in the Hands

Receiving an accurate diagnosis is the foundational step toward effectively managing hand arthritis. To start the process, you will need to have a thorough discussion of your symptoms and medical history with a specialized physician. Your orthopedic doctor will conduct a detailed physical examination, carefully assessing your hands for signs of tenderness, swelling, and limitations in movement. 

To gain a clearer picture of the condition of your joints, imaging tests are often employed. X-rays are particularly useful for revealing cartilage loss and the formation of bone spurs, which are common indicators of osteoarthritis. In some cases, blood tests may be ordered to help distinguish between different types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disorder.

First-Line Therapies for Hand Arthritis Relief

The initial approach to managing hand arthritis typically focuses on non-surgical methods aimed at alleviating pain and improving function, allowing you to maintain your daily routines with greater ease. Your physician may recommend a combination of strategies, including the use of anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Physical or occupational therapy can be immensely beneficial, as well. These types of therapies provide you with targeted exercises to enhance flexibility and strength, as well as introduce you to adaptive equipment that can make tasks less strenuous.

Additionally, wearing a splint can provide support to the affected joints, offering rest and stability, while lifestyle adjustments, such as modifying activities that exacerbate your symptoms, can play a significant role in your overall comfort.

Surgical Treatments for Advanced Cases

When conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief and hand arthritis progresses to an advanced stage, surgical intervention may become a viable option to restore function and significantly reduce pain. The type of surgery recommended will depend on the specific joints affected and the severity of the arthritis.

One common procedure is joint fusion, also known as arthrodesis, which involves permanently joining the bones of a painful joint, thereby eliminating motion and the associated discomfort. Another surgical approach is joint replacement, or arthroplasty, where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial implant designed to replicate the joint’s natural movement.

Why See an Orthopaedic Specialist for Hand Arthritis

Hand arthritis affects a complex network of small joints, tendons, and ligaments that require specialized knowledge to be treated effectively. Our orthopaedic specialists have extensive training in hand and upper extremity conditions, giving us unique insight into how arthritis affects your entire arm function, not just your fingers.

We stay current with the latest research and treatment techniques, including minimally invasive surgical options and advanced non-surgical therapies that may not be available through general practitioners. We understand that every patient’s experience with arthritis is different, and we take the time to develop individualized strategies that fit your lifestyle, occupation, and personal goals.

Call to Receive Comprehensive Care for Arthritis in the Hands

Don’t let hand arthritis limit your ability to live the life you want. Our team combines years of specialized experience with a genuine commitment to helping you find relief and regain function in your hands and wrists.

Contact us now to schedule your consultation and find out how to manage your arthritis effectively. Your hands have carried you through countless tasks and experiences — let us help you keep them strong and functional for years to come.