Arthritis of the hand and wrist can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, but treatment options are available to manage symptoms and improve function. The treatment prescribed depends on various factors, such as:
- The progression of the arthritis
- The number of joints involved
- The individual’s age, activity level, and overall health
- Whether the dominant or non-dominant hand is affected
- The patient’s personal goals, support structure, and ability to follow the therapy plan
Common forms of arthritis affecting the hand and wrist include:
- Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease): Caused by wear and tear, often affecting older adults. Cartilage breaks down, causing painful friction between bones.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks tissues, damaging cartilage and softening bones.
- Posttraumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury, such as a fracture, which can cause cartilage breakdown over time.
Treatment Options for Hand and Wrist Arthritis
Treatment for hand and wrist arthritis is tailored to the individual, considering the type of arthritis, the severity of symptoms, and personal goals. Key treatment options include:
- Activity Modification: Discontinue activities that exacerbate pain. This helps prevent further inflammation and joint damage. You may need assistance with tasks that strain your hands and wrists.
- Immobilization: Wrist or finger splints can provide relief and stability, allowing the joints to rest. However, prolonged use of splints can cause muscle weakness. For this reason, the braces are mainly recommended during bedtime while they can be used as needed during day time. It’s important to follow your doctor’s guidance on wear time.
- Exercise: Gentle exercises can improve range of motion and strengthen muscles around the affected joints. Working with a physical therapist can help you develop an effective regimen while avoiding overuse. Manipulation during physical therapy can aggravate the symptoms and is not routinely recommended as a nonoperative modality for arthritis.
- Medications: Acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections can reduce pain and inflammation. Always consult your doctor before taking any medications.
- Surgery: When conservative treatments fail, surgery can be considered. Joint replacement, joint fusion, or joint reconstruction can help restore function and alleviate chronic pain. Postoperative recovery may include rest, splinting, medications, and physical therapy which may take up to several months.
When to Seek Specialized Care
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, worsening of symptoms, or difficulty with daily tasks due to arthritis, seeking treatment from a specialist is recommended. At Rothman Orthopaedics, our Hand and Wrist specialists offer comprehensive care to help you manage symptoms and restore function.
Schedule Your Appointment
Don’t let arthritis limit your ability to perform everyday tasks. The experts at Rothman Orthopaedics are here to help you manage your arthritis and regain control of your hand and wrist function. To schedule an appointment or learn more about treatment options, contact us at 1-800-321-9999.
