Arthritis occurs when the cartilage in your joints wears down over time. This can happen in any joint of the hand or fingers, leading to pain, stiffness and reduced function.
Hand arthritis is common, especially as people age, after repeated use of the hands, or following injuries. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, also frequently affects the hands.
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Hand Arthritis Symptoms
Not everyone with arthritis experiences noticeable symptoms. Common signs include:
- Pain in the joints of the hand or fingers
- Swelling around the joint
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Weakness in the affected joint
Symptoms may make everyday activities such as opening jars, turning keys or gripping objects difficult.
Causes of Hand and Finger Arthritis
A healthy joint has smooth cartilage covering the ends of bones, allowing them to glide easily. When this cartilage wears down, bones no longer fit together properly, and arthritis develops. Other factors that can cause arthritis include:
- Injury to the joint (post-traumatic arthritis)
- Infection in the joint
- Gout or other metabolic conditions
- Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis
- Chronic wear and tear from repetitive hand use
The most commonly affected joints in the hand are:
- Basilar joint: At the base of the thumb where it meets the wrist
- Distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint: Closest to the fingertip
- Proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint: Middle joint of the finger
Treatment for Arthritis in the Hands and Fingers
Nonsurgical Options
While there is no cure for arthritis, several treatments can relieve pain and improve function:
- Avoiding motions that aggravate symptoms
- Wearing a splint or brace to support the joint
- Hand therapy exercises to maintain mobility and strength
- Heat therapy to soothe stiffness
- Anti-inflammatory drugs or steroid injections to reduce pain and swelling
The goal of these treatments is to minimize pain, maintain as much hand function as possible and protect the joints from further wear.
Surgical Treatment Options
Surgery is considered when nonsurgical treatments no longer relieve symptoms of arthritis or when function is severely limited. Surgical options include:
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Worn cartilage is removed, and bones are fused. The joint no longer moves but is pain-free.
- Joint reconstruction or replacement: Rough joint surfaces are smoothed or replaced with tissue or implants, restoring motion and function.
The type of surgery depends on the joint affected, the severity of arthritis and your activity level.
Hand Arthritis Treatment at OrthoNebraska
Need relief from hand and finger arthritis in the Omaha area? At OrthoNebraska, we want to make sure that our patients feel understood, safe and confident to take on an appropriate treatment plan. With proper management, we can help you reduce pain levels and improve quality of life.
