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Hand Arthritis(Joint Degeneration & Inflammation)

Comprehensive management guide for hand and wrist arthritis through evidence-based treatment, joint protection techniques, and functional rehabilitation.

27M
Adults affected in US
40+
Peak onset age
70%
Women affected
Ongoing
Management needed
Understanding Hand Arthritis

What is Hand Arthritis?

Hand arthritis involves inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the fingers, thumb, and wrist, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

Common Locations:

  • Base of thumb (CMC joint)
  • Finger joints (DIP, PIP)
  • Wrist joints
  • Knuckles (MCP joints)

Common Symptoms

  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Swelling and warmth
  • Reduced grip strength
  • Morning stiffness
  • Difficulty with fine motor tasks
  • Joint deformity in advanced cases

Types of Hand Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Wear-and-tear arthritis affecting joint cartilage

Symptoms:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Pain with use
  • Swelling
  • Reduced grip strength
  • Bone spurs

Treatment:

Conservative management, splinting, activity modification

Management:

Ongoing management

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation

Symptoms:

  • Morning stiffness
  • Joint swelling
  • Fatigue
  • Symmetric involvement
  • Warmth and redness

Treatment:

Disease-modifying drugs, anti-inflammatories, therapy

Management:

Lifelong management

Psoriatic Arthritis

Arthritis associated with psoriasis skin condition

Symptoms:

  • Joint pain and swelling
  • Skin psoriasis
  • Nail changes
  • Asymmetric pattern
  • Tendon inflammation

Treatment:

Biologics, DMARDs, topical treatments

Management:

Ongoing management

Management Phases

Phase 1: Acute Management (0-4 weeks)

Goals:

Control inflammationReduce painProtect joints

Key Interventions:

Anti-inflammatory medications as prescribed
Joint protection techniques
Splinting for support and rest
Ice therapy for acute flares
Activity modification to reduce stress
Patient education on condition management
Phase 2: Stabilization (4-12 weeks)

Focus on maintaining function while managing symptoms

Goals:

Maintain range of motionPreserve functionStrengthen supporting muscles

Key Interventions:

Gentle range of motion exercises
Strengthening exercises within pain limits
Occupational therapy for adaptive techniques
Ergonomic modifications
Heat therapy for stiffness
Joint protection education
Phase 3: Long-term Management (12+ weeks)

Ongoing strategies for optimal function and quality of life

Goals:

Maximize functionPrevent progressionMaintain independence

Key Interventions:

Maintenance exercise program
Adaptive equipment as needed
Regular monitoring and medication adjustments
Lifestyle modifications
Stress management techniques
Support group participation

Exercise & Activity Program

Range of Motion Exercises (Daily)

Finger Flexion/Extension

Gentle bending and straightening of fingers

Sets: 3 sets
Reps: 10-15 repetitions
Frequency: 2-3 times daily

Thumb Opposition

Touch thumb to each fingertip

Sets: 2 sets
Reps: 10 repetitions
Frequency: 2-3 times daily

Wrist Circles

Gentle circular movements of wrist

Sets: 2 sets
Reps: 10 each direction
Frequency: 2-3 times daily
Strengthening Exercises (As tolerated)

Grip Strengthening

Squeeze therapy putty or stress ball

Sets: 2-3 sets
Reps: 10-15 repetitions
Frequency: Daily

Pinch Strengthening

Pinch exercises with therapy tools

Sets: 2-3 sets
Reps: 10-15 repetitions
Frequency: Daily

Finger Extension

Resistance exercises against rubber band

Sets: 2 sets
Reps: 10-15 repetitions
Frequency: Daily

Wrist Strengthening

Light resistance exercises for wrist

Sets: 2 sets
Reps: 10-12 repetitions
Frequency: 3-4 times per week
Functional Activities (Daily living)

Fine Motor Skills

Activities like buttoning, writing, typing

Sets: As needed
Reps: Daily activities
Frequency: Throughout day

Adaptive Techniques

Using larger grips, jar openers, ergonomic tools

Sets: As needed
Reps: Daily activities
Frequency: Throughout day

Joint Protection

Techniques to minimize joint stress

Sets: Continuous
Reps: All activities
Frequency: Always
Management & Prevention Strategies
Maintain healthy weight to reduce joint stress
Stay physically active with low-impact exercises
Use proper ergonomics at work and home
Take frequent breaks from repetitive activities
Protect joints during activities
Manage stress and get adequate sleep
Follow prescribed medication regimens
Regular monitoring with healthcare providers
When to Seek Medical Attention
Sudden severe increase in pain or swelling
Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)
Complete loss of function in hand or fingers
Severe morning stiffness lasting hours
New numbness or tingling
Inability to perform daily activities
Medication side effects
Progressive deformity or instability
Recommended Products for Management

Hand Braces

Joint support & protection

Heat Therapy

Stiffness relief

Therapy Tools

Exercise & strengthening

Wrist SprainsWrist & Hand Conditions OverviewGanglion Cysts

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