Arthritis in Hands: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Arthritis in the hands occurs when the joints become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. The most common types affecting the hands are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Types of Hand Arthritis

  1. Osteoarthritis (OA) – “Wear and Tear” Arthritis

    • Most common type, due to cartilage breakdown.
    • Often affects the base of the thumb, finger joints, and wrist.
    • Causes bone spurs and joint deformities.

  2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Autoimmune Disease

    • The immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium), causing inflammation.
    • Affects both hands symmetrically (both wrists, same finger joints).
    • Can lead to joint deformities over time.

  3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

    • Linked to psoriasis (skin condition).
    • Causes swelling in fingers (“sausage fingers”) and nail changes.

  4. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

    • Develops after an injury, such as fractures or dislocations.

Symptoms

  • Pain & Stiffness – Worse in the morning or after activity.
  • Swelling & Tenderness – Joints may feel warm.
  • Reduced Grip Strength – Difficulty holding objects or opening jars.
  • Clicking or Grinding (Crepitus) – Due to cartilage loss.
  • Joint Deformities – Fingers may bend abnormally (e.g., swan neck deformity in RA).

Diagnosis

  • Physical exam (joint movement, swelling, deformities).
  • X-rays (shows cartilage loss, bone spurs).
  • MRI or Ultrasound (detects early joint damage).
  • Blood tests (for RA or PsA, checking for inflammatory markers).

Treatment Options

  1. Medications

    • Pain relievers: Acetaminophen, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen).
    • Steroid injections: Reduces inflammation in severe cases.
    • DMARDs & Biologics (for RA & PsA): Slow disease progression.

  2. Lifestyle & Home Remedies

    • Hand exercises: Improves flexibility & strength.
    • Hot & cold therapy: Heat loosens joints, cold reduces swelling.
    • Assistive devices: Adaptive grips, jar openers, ergonomic tools.

  3. Surgery (for severe cases)

    • Joint fusion (stabilizes but reduces motion).
    • Joint replacement (for thumb/wrist).

Prevention & Management Tips

  • Maintain a healthy weight (reduces joint stress).
  • Use ergonomic tools to protect joints.
  • Avoid repetitive strain (take breaks when using hands frequently).
  • Strengthen hand muscles with gentle exercises.