Arthritis is an umbrella term describing more than 100 unique medical conditions that affect the muscle and skeletal system – particularly the joints. The two most common forms of arthritis found in the hand are osteoarthritis – most commonly the result of years of wear and tear; and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease that affects the synovial membranes surrounding the joints. No matter the type of arthritis you have, you can usually expect pain and discomfort. Here are some of the more common treatments you can use for arthritis in your hands.
At-Home Treatments for Hand Arthritis
Sometimes, simply avoiding certain activities is enough for the pain to go away. However, no one wants to avoid the things they love to do. When there is discomfort, try an over-the-counter pain reliever to reduce the inflammation that causes pain. A healthy diet void of sodium, fats and preservatives and rich in fruits and vegetables can be helpful to reduce inflammation and flare ups, especially with gout. Topical forms of capsaicin, an extract from chill peppers, massaged into an arthritic joint can bring temporary relief, as have soaks in Epsom salts and therapeutic massage. Aquatic therapy in a heated pool can be soothing for the whole body and takes the stress off the joints. When it comes to hands, be wary of exercises that add strain – focus on stretching and strengthening exercises instead. Consider also supplements, especially glucosamine and chondroitin, which have proven effective in relief for damaged joints. And finally, relax! Meditation and relaxation work wonders for easing the stress on tired joints.
Medical Treatment for Hand Arthritis
A medical doctor can perform procedures that can alleviate pain and provide range of motion, however, treatments like cortisone injections to reduce pain and inflammation are only temporary and should not be relied on for long-term relief. Occupational and physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles surround the joints, and also provide instruction on the proper way to perform common and work-related activities and tasks. Acupuncture has also proven effective in relieving pain by blocking the pain pathways that connect to the brain.
Surgical Options
When non-surgical treatments can no longer provide relief, your orthopedist may recommend a surgical option. And because arthritis is a degenerative and progressive disease, waiting too long may mean your condition will only worsen with time. Depending on the type of condition you have and its severity, your orthopedist may recommend removing the damaged or diseased joint lining, or realigning the joints. Fusion surgery is used to fuse the bones in the joint together to create a stronger, more stable joint, but offers little flexibility. Your orthopedist may also recommend replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one, which can provide relief from pain and also restore the shape of the hand, especially at the knuckle. Thumb CMC (carpometacarpal) arthroplasty is used to reconstruct the thumb joint. Replacements are also effective to restore functionality at the base of the hand to allow for gripping and twisting.
When to Seek a Hand Specialist
If you have arthritis, you should seek a doctor’s consult for proper diagnosis, monitoring, and care. And when more conservative treatments have proven ineffective, or your hand arthritis is such that a regular orthopedist is not providing the specialized care you need, then it’s time to see a hand specialist.
If you or a loved one is suffering from arthritic pain in the hands and are seeking specialized care, contact the team at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder by calling (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online. With seven locations across Maryland, we are ready to work with you, hands down.
