Arthritis In Hands

Hand arthritis is the most common form of arthritis that mainly affects the fingers. As in most forms of arthritis the joints become inflamed resulting in pain. Essentially, a joint is made up of two bones that are covered by cartilage and are conjoined together moving smoothly across each other. If this smooth surface becomes damaged or wears out over time, arthritis will result

Hand osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the hand joints over time resulting in inflammation and pain. Normally it is a result of this wear and tear, however it can also be the result of a specific hand injury. Hand osteoarthritis arthritis generally develops either along the bottom of the thumb, the wrist, the end joint that is closest to the tip of the finger and the middle joint of the finger.

When you consider how much we use our hands and how much we rely on our hands, if wear and tear causes degenerative types of arthritis, it is no wonder really. All joints get used but we use our hands probably more than any other joints on our entire body!

Physical therapy for hand arthritis has also proven to be very effective as a treatment option. There are specific exercises, which can help in loosening the stiffened joints caused by the hand arthritis. Steroids can also be injected locally into the affected area, however this is only a form of pain relief, and certainly not a long-term treatment option for hand arthritis.

Hand arthritis can be an extremely debilitating condition, however with proper diagnosis by your doctor or physician the symptoms can be effectively managed and rehabilitation can take place. Like most forms of arthritis early diagnosis is the key to aiding recovery in hand arthritis.