Arthritis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, but the most common types that affect the hands are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the “wear and tear” type of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. It is the most common form of arthritis and often affects the joints at the base of the thumb, the middle of the fingers, and the joints closest to the fingertips.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is an autoimmune disease, which means that your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In the case of RA, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and swelling. RA often affects the small joints of the hands and wrists and can lead to joint deformity if left untreated.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This type of arthritis can develop after a hand injury, such as a fracture or dislocation. The injury can damage the cartilage in the joint, leading to premature wear and tear.
No matter the type, hand arthritis can cause a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe.
Common Symptoms and Causes
The symptoms of hand arthritis can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain: This is the most common symptom of hand arthritis. The pain may be a dull ache or a sharp, burning sensation. It may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Stiffness: You may experience stiffness in your hand joints, especially in the morning or after holding your hand in one position for a long time.
- Swelling: The joints in your hands may become swollen and tender to the touch.
- Weakness: You may notice a decrease in your grip strength, making it difficult to open jars or hold onto objects.
- Creaking or Grinding: You may hear or feel a creaking or grinding sensation in your joints when you move your fingers.
- Bony Nodules: In some cases of osteoarthritis, small bony bumps may form on the joints of the fingers.
The exact cause of hand arthritis is not always known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. In the case of osteoarthritis, the primary cause is the breakdown of cartilage over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an autoimmune disorder, and post-traumatic arthritis is caused by a previous injury.
Common Risk Factors
While anyone can develop hand arthritis, there are certain factors that can increase your risk. These include:
- Age: The risk of developing hand arthritis increases with age, especially for osteoarthritis.
- Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis of the hands.
- Family History: If you have a family member with hand arthritis, you may be more likely to develop the condition yourself.
- Previous Injuries: A previous hand injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, can increase your risk of developing post-traumatic arthritis.
- Repetitive Motions: Certain jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive hand motions can put extra stress on your joints and increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis.
- Obesity: Being overweight can put extra stress on your joints, including the joints in your hands.
When to See a Doctor
If you are experiencing persistent pain, stiffness, or swelling in your hands, it is important to see a doctor to get an accurate diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to manage your symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
At California Pacific Orthopaedics, our hand specialists will perform a thorough physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as X-rays, to determine the extent of your arthritis. We will then work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Treatment Options at California Pacific Orthopaedics
There is no cure for hand arthritis, but there are many effective treatments available to help manage the symptoms and improve your hand function. At California Pacific Orthopaedics, we offer a wide range of treatment options, from conservative, non-surgical treatments to advanced surgical procedures.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications, such as corticosteroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
- Splinting: Wearing a splint can help to support your joints and reduce pain, especially during activities that put stress on your hands.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: A physical or occupational therapist can teach you exercises to improve your hand strength and flexibility. They can also show you how to perform daily activities in a way that puts less stress on your joints.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the affected joints.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatments are not effective, your doctor may recommend surgery. The type of surgery will depend on the type and severity of your arthritis, as well as your individual needs and goals. Some of the most common surgical procedures for hand arthritis include:
- Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): This procedure involves fusing the bones of the affected joint together to create a single, solid bone. This eliminates pain but also eliminates movement in the joint.
- Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): In this procedure, the damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial implant. This can help to relieve pain and restore function to the joint.
- Tendon Transfer: In some cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the tendons that control finger movement can become damaged. A tendon transfer procedure can help to restore function to the fingers.
Our hand surgeons at California Pacific Orthopaedics are highly skilled and experienced in performing a variety of surgical procedures for hand arthritis. We use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Your Local Hand Arthritis Experts in San Francisco
If you are living with hand arthritis in the San Francisco Bay Area, you don’t have to suffer in silence. The team of hand specialists at California Pacific Orthopaedics is here to help. We are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to help you find relief from your pain and get back to living your life to the fullest.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our hand specialists at our San Francisco or San Rafael location. We look forward to helping you on your journey to a pain-free life.
