Hand and wrist arthritis can be debilitating, making many daily tasks difficult or impossible. Fellowship-trained hand surgeon Anisa Yalom, MD, in northern San Diego, California, sees many patients with hand arthritis. Her goal is to help you find relief and improved function despite the condition. Call today or use the online tool to schedule a consultation.
Hand arthritis is a condition characterized by the inflammation and degeneration of the joints in the hand. It often affects the joints at the base of the thumb, fingers, and wrists.
As arthritis progresses, it can lead to pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty performing everyday tasks like gripping, typing, and even simple hand movements.
There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hand. They include:
Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis affect people of various ages.
The exact causes of hand arthritis varies based on the type. Osteoarthritis is often linked to aging and overuse, while rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis have genetic and autoimmune components. Other risk factors include a family history of arthritis, previous hand injuries, and certain lifestyle factors.
Symptoms of hand arthritis may include:
Grasping objects, performing fine motor tasks, and even dressing oneself can become challenging. In more advanced cases, joint deformities can develop.
Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of the arthritis and its impact on daily life. Dr. Yalom may offer conservative, nonsurgical treatments, including pain management, anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, and hand therapy. She may recommend joint-friendly ergonomic interventions and gentle hand exercises to maintain flexibility and relieve pain.
When conservative measures are unable to help you manage pain and dysfunction, surgical interventions like joint fusion or joint replacement might be considered.
While some factors contributing to arthritis are beyond your control, you can be proactive. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid overuse of your hands, and diligently manage underlying health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Regular hand exercises and ergonomic practices can also help keep the joints functional.
If you’re struggling with hand arthritis, reach out to the office of Anisa Yalom, MD. Call today or use this website to schedule your visit.