Wrist and Hand Arthritis
Arthritis in the Hand, Wrist and Fingers - Adelaide Orthopaedic Specialists
Multiple small joints work together within the hand and wrist to provide our range of motion. When one or more of these joints are damaged, the condition is classified as arthritis. Although there are over 100 forms of arthritis, the types that most commonly affect the hand or wrist are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Any joint in the fingers or wrist can be affected by arthritis. The condition frequently results in pain for those affected, and may also result in a reduced range of motion as joints become stiff and sore. Left untreated, arthritis can eventually result in joint deformity that cripples the hand and leads to functional loss.
For people affected by arthritis in the hand or wrist, many daily activities become increasingly difficult. Movements that require fine motor skills such as tying shoelaces, gripping objects and turning keys can become harder, affecting the sufferer’s independence.
What causes arthritis?
There is no single answer to this question – different types of arthritis have different causes; and these causes often act together.Â
That being said, the most common forms of arthritis are the result of ‘wear and tear’ of the joints, trauma or immune system dysfunction. Some people are genetically predisposed to develop the disease due to their genetics, whereas other cases are triggered by environmental conditions such as overuse or injury.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is the result of joint cartilage wearing away over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune disease that causes the joint lining (synovium) to swell, which causes pain and stiffness in the joint.
Symptoms of arthritis
Arthritis in the hand or wrist share a range of symptoms, including:
- Pain and stiffness, often accompanied by a burning sensation
- A red and/or swollen appearance after use
- The affected joint/s feeling warm to the touch
- Weakness of the hand or wrist due to pain and loss of motion
- Diminished ability to grip and pinch
- A grinding, clicking or cracking sound when moving the joint
- In advanced cases, joint/s may appear larger than normal
If arthritis is affecting the ends of the fingers, small mucous cysts within the joints may cause dents or ridges in the nail plate to appear.
How is arthritis of the hand or wrist diagnosed?
If you are experiencing symptoms of arthritis, you may want to visit one of our orthopaedic surgeons at Adelaide Shoulder and Upper Limb Clinic. During your consultation, our surgeons will physically examine your hands, and ask you questions about your symptoms and family history. X-rays are commonly used to diagnose arthritis. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, a blood test may also be used.
Treatment options for arthritis of the hand or wrist
A variety of treatment options exist to aid the management of arthritic conditions.
Treatment options for arthritis of the hand or wrist depend on the disease’s progression, how many joints are involved, your age and activity level and your personal lifestyle goals.
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is the result of joint cartilage wearing away over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an immune disease that causes the joint lining (synovium) to swell, which causes pain and stiffness in the joint.
Non-surgical treatments
When non-surgical measures do not adequately relieve symptoms, or when arthritis interferes too much with daily life, your surgeon at ASULC may recommend surgical intervention.
Surgical treatment options for arthritis of the hand or wrist
Surgical options aim to reduce symptoms and improve joint function. Adelaide Shoulder and Upper Limb Clinic's surgeons are locally and internationally trained orthopaedic surgeons, offering key-hole and reconstructive surgery. Our surgeons use minimally invasive treatments wherever possible so patients experience minimal physical trauma and can get back to their normal lives as quickly as possible.
Depending on your individual circumstances, you may consider the following surgical interventions for your condition:
Reconstructive surgery
This procedure involves removing the arthritic bone/s and replacing it with a piece of forearm tendon. It can be highly effective for reducing pain and restoring function, particularly in the thumb. This video shows the process of treating thumb arthritis with a tendon transplant.
Joint replacement
This procedure can be useful for those with rheumatoid arthritis. It involves replacing problematic joints with artificial ones. These artificial joints tend to wear down over time. Length of recovery differs depending on a number of factors including the type and severity of your arthritis, and the type of surgery performed. ASULC's surgeons will provide you with detailed information during your pre- and post-surgery consultations.
Joint fusion
Also called arthrodesis, this option involves fusing the joint to stabilise and strengthen it while also eliminating pain. The downside to this procedure is that the joint can no longer be bent afterward.
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