The base of the thumb, the second joint and top joint of the fingers, and the knuckles are common sites for hand arthritis. If you are experiencing symptoms of hand or wrist arthritis, non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available.
What is Hand and Wrist Arthritis?
Arthritis is a disease that targets and attacks the tissues of the joints (where two bones meet). Arthritis can also attack the lining of the joint (cartilage). Over time, the cartilage will break down, and the ends of the bones will become exposed, rubbing against each other and wearing away. There are various types of arthritis that can affect the hands, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
Symptoms of hand and wrist arthritis include:
- Swelling and stiffness.
- Dull or burning joint pain.
- Deformity.
Individuals who are more likely to develop arthritis in the hand and wrist include those who are over the age of 50, are female, are overweight, have had previous injuries to the hand, or have inherited genes that cause arthritis.
Treatment Options
To diagnose arthritis of the hand and wrist, your doctor will examine your hand with X-rays. X-rays can show the loss of bone cartilage and the formation of bone spurs. A blood test is also available to determine if the cause is rheumatoid arthritis. Overall treatment depends on the type of arthritis, the stage of arthritis, and how it has affected your hand.
Schedule a Consultation
Salem hand surgeons Dr. Keith C. Neaman, Dr. Dustin Christiansen, and Dr. Pete Tsai have extensive training and experience in the treatment of hand and wrist arthritis. To schedule your personal consultation, please call Neaman Hand Surgery at 844-338-5445. There are numerous non-surgical and surgical options to help provide pain relief and increased strength.
