What Is Hand Arthritis?
Hand arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints in the hand. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones at the joints wears away, causing bones to rub together. This leads to pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, and sometimes joint deformity.
The hand has multiple joints, including:
- Distal interphalangeal joints (DIP) – near the fingertips
- Proximal interphalangeal joints (PIP) – middle of the fingers
- Metacarpophalangeal joints (MCP) – knuckles
- Thumb base (CMC joint) – the joint at the base of the thumb
Arthritis can affect any or all of these joints.
Types of Hand Arthritis
There are different types of arthritis, and each has distinct causes:
1. Osteoarthritis (OA)
- Most common type
- Caused by wear and tear over time
- Common in older adults and people who use their hands repetitively
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- An autoimmune disease
- The immune system attacks the synovium (lining of the joints)
- Leads to severe inflammation and joint deformity
- Can affect both hands symmetrically
3. Psoriatic Arthritis
- Associated with psoriasis
- Causes joint pain, swelling, and skin rashes
- May lead to sausage-shaped fingers (dactylitis)
4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis
- Caused by previous injuries like fractures, dislocations, or sprains
- Damage to joint surfaces leads to cartilage breakdown over time
Risk Factors
- Age (more common after 50)
- Family history of arthritis
- Repetitive hand movements (e.g., typing, knitting)
- Previous hand injuries
- Autoimmune disorders
- Obesity (increases inflammation)
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Symptoms of Hand Arthritis
The symptoms can vary based on the type and severity, but common signs include:
- Joint pain or aching
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling and tenderness
- Difficulty gripping or pinching
- Joint enlargement or deformity
- Warmth or redness around joints
- Weakness in the hands or fingers
- Reduced range of motion
In severe cases, joints may become misaligned or fused.
Diagnosis of Hand Arthritis
To diagnose arthritis in the hand, a doctor may use:
1. Physical Examination
- Checking for swelling, tenderness, deformity, and range of motion
2. X-rays
- Shows joint space narrowing, bone changes, and deformities
3. MRI or Ultrasound
- Detects soft tissue damage or early joint inflammation
4. Blood Tests
- Used for diagnosing RA or psoriatic arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP, CRP, ESR)
Treatment Options for Hand Arthritis
Although hand arthritis can’t be fully cured, its progression and symptoms can be managed effectively. Treatment depends on the type, severity, and impact on function.
1. Medications
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): Reduce inflammation and pain
- Corticosteroids: Given orally or as joint injections
- DMARDs: Used for autoimmune arthritis (e.g., methotrexate)
- Biologic Agents: For moderate to severe RA or psoriatic arthritis
2. Supportive Devices
- Hand braces or splints: Stabilize joints and reduce pain
- Compression gloves: Improve circulation and reduce stiffness
- Assistive tools: Jar openers, ergonomic pens, button hooks
3. Heat & Cold Therapy
- Heat therapy: Relieves stiffness and relaxes muscles
- Cold therapy: Reduces inflammation and numbness during flare-ups
4. Injections
- Corticosteroid injections: Provide temporary relief
- Viscosupplementation: Less common but used in some cases
5. Surgery
When pain and deformity severely affect hand function:
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Removes joint motion to relieve pain
- Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Replaces damaged joints with prosthetics
- Tendon repairs or soft tissue procedures
Physiotherapy for Hand Arthritis
Physiotherapy plays a major role in managing hand arthritis. It aims to improve strength, flexibility, function, and reduce pain through targeted exercises and techniques.
Physiotherapy Goals
- Relieve pain and stiffness
- Improve grip strength
- Maintain joint flexibility
- Prevent deformities
- Teach joint protection techniques
1. Range of Motion Exercises
Gentle exercises to maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness:
- Finger stretches
- Thumb circles
- Wrist rotations
2. Strengthening Exercises
Helps build muscle support around joints:
- Squeezing a soft ball
- Finger lifts
- Rubber band finger resistance
3. Hand Therapy Tools
- Therapy putty
- Exercise balls
- Finger extensor bands
4. Joint Protection Training
Therapists teach how to:
- Use larger joints to protect smaller ones
- Avoid repetitive strain
- Use ergonomic hand positions
5. Pain Management Techniques
- Paraffin wax bath: Provides soothing heat
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrotherapy (TENS)
FAQ’s
🔹 What does arthritis look like in the hands?
It often causes knobby finger joints, swelling, and twisted fingers. Images of arthritis in hands or rheumatoid arthritis hand x rays show visible deformity and joint narrowing.
🔹 How to prevent arthritis in hands?
Stay active, avoid repetitive hand strain, protect your hands, eat well, and keep a healthy weight.
🔹 How to stop arthritis in hands?
Use splints, take medications, practice hand exercises, and reduce inflammation through diet and therapy.
🔹 Can statins cause a flare up of hand arthritis?
Some people report joint pain with statins. If you notice new pain, consult your doctor.
🔹 How successful is hand surgery for arthritis?
Success rates are high in relieving pain and improving function, especially with joint replacement or fusion.
🔹 Can I get disability for arthritis in my hands?
Yes. If arthritis limits your ability to work or perform daily tasks, you may qualify for Social Security or VA disability.
🔹 How to use castor oil for arthritis in hands?
Warm the oil and gently massage into affected joints. Wrap in a cloth or wear gloves for 20–30 minutes.
🔹 Is Epsom salt good for arthritis in hands?
Yes. Soaking hands in warm water with Epsom salt can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
🔹 Can chiropractor help with arthritis in hands?
Some chiropractors trained in extremity care may help with pain relief and joint alignment. Results vary by case.
🔹 Can acupuncture help arthritis in the hands?
Yes, acupuncture may help reduce pain and improve mobility when combined with other treatments.
🔹 Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis in your hands?
No. Cracking knuckles doesn’t cause arthritis. It’s a common myth.
🔹 Can arthritis cause numbness in hands?
Yes. Swelling may compress nerves leading to numbness or tingling.
🔹 Can stress cause arthritis in hands?
While stress doesn’t directly cause arthritis, it can trigger flare-ups in autoimmune types like RA.
🔹 What is the best vitamin for arthritis in your hands?
Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids are often helpful in managing inflammation.
🔹 Does Molly Jong-Fast have arthritis in her hands?
There’s no verified public information confirming this.
🔹 Does exercising your hands help with arthritis?
Yes. Gentle exercises improve strength and flexibility. Look for hand arthritis exercises PDFs online.
🔹 Can you drive with arthritis in hands?
Yes, with the right tools like steering knobs, power steering, and hand grips.
🔹 Do hand massagers work for arthritis?
Yes. They increase circulation and reduce stiffness and pain.
🔹 Does heat help arthritis hands?
Yes. Heat therapy relaxes muscles and improves joint mobility.