Hand arthritis is a condition that affects the joints in hand, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. It can occur in any of the joints in the hand, including those in the fingers, thumb, and wrist. This condition is commonly seen in individuals over 50 and affects more women than men.

Early detection and hand arthritis prevention strategies are essential to managing this condition. If left untreated, hand arthritis can cause significant pain and discomfort, hampering daily activities. In severe cases, it can cause disability and loss of functionality in the affected hand.

Let’s discuss the symptoms of hand arthritis and some detection and prevention strategies discussed in detail below.

Symptoms of Hand Arthritis

Here are the most common symptoms of hand arthritis:

Pain: Pain in the hands and fingers is a common symptom of hand arthritis. This pain can be dull or excruciating and can worsen with increased use of the hands.

Swelling: Joint swelling of the hands and wrists is another common symptom of hand arthritis. It can result in stiffness and decreased range of motion.

Weakness: Weakness in the hands is a symptom of hand arthritis. It can make it difficult to grip, grasp, or pinch objects.

Morning stiffness: Morning stiffness in the hands is another symptom of hand arthritis. Moving the hands and fingers after waking up can be uncomfortable.

Diagnosis of Hand Arthritis

One of the most common diagnostic methods for hand arthritis is undergoing a physical examination. Your doctor identifies your symptoms and medical history and then carefully examines your hands for signs of swelling, stiffness, and deformity. They may also ask you to perform a series of movements to assess your range of motion and joint function.

Another important diagnostic tool is imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans. These tests can help your doctor visualize the bones and joints in your hands, allowing them to identify any signs of joint damage or degeneration. 

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

• Rest and Joint Protection Techniques

Rest is essential to managing hand arthritis symptoms. When the hands are overused or subjected to repetitive motions, it can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. It can also help in hand arthritis prevention for further damage to the joints. 

Joint protection is another effective technique for managing hand arthritis symptoms. Joint protection involves taking steps to reduce the stress on the joints in the hands. Assistive devices are one such joint protection techniques that various health centers employ. 

• Exercise And Physical Therapy

The range of motion exercises involve moving the joints in hand and wrist to help reduce stiffness and improve flexibility. For instance, a physical therapist may have a patient perform finger flexion and extension exercises to help increase the range of motion in the fingers.

Strengthening exercises also help prevent hand arthritis. These exercises aim to increase muscle strength, reduce pain and improve functionality. An example of a strengthening exercise would be using a grip strengthener to improve grip strength.

• Medications

Medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also reduce pain and inflammation. OTC pain relievers are also helpful, including acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.

Surgical Treatment Options

One common surgical option is joint fusion or arthrodesis. This procedure involves the fusion of two bones in the joint so they no longer move independently. Joint fusion aims to reduce pain and increase stability in the affected joint. If a patient has arthritis, a surgeon may recommend fusing the bones in the wrist joint to reduce pain and improve function.

Another surgical option is joint replacement or arthroplasty. This procedure involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial metal, plastic, or ceramic joint. Joint replacement is often used for larger joints, such as the hip or knee, but is also used in hand. When a patient has severe arthritis in their thumb joint, a surgeon may recommend a joint replacement to alleviate pain and improve functionality.

Prevention Strategies

Making lifestyle changes is an effective way to reduce the risk factors for hand arthritis. One such change is incorporating exercises and stretches into your daily routine to maintain hand mobility. Another important lifestyle change is to make ergonomic adjustments to reduce hand strain. It can include using tools with larger handles, improving grip, and reducing hand pressure.

It can also involve adjusting the height and position of your workspace to reduce strain on the hands and wrists. For instance, raising your computer monitor to eye level can reduce the strain on your neck and shoulders, alleviating hand pain.

Maintaining a healthy weight is also important in reducing the risk factors for hand arthritis. Excess weight puts pressure on the joints, leading to wear and tear over time. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on your hands and other joints.

Early Detection Strategies

One of the most important strategies for early hand arthritis detection is regular screening tests. These tests can help identify the condition in its early stages, allowing for prompt hand arthritis treatment and management. 

Besides the screening tests, other diagnostic tools can also help detect hand arthritis early. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide detailed images of your joints and surrounding tissues, making it easier to identify early signs of arthritis. Ultrasound is another diagnostic tool that can help detect inflammation and other joint changes.

Early hand arthritis detection can also be achieved through self-monitoring. Paying attention to changes in your hands and fingers can identify early signs of arthritis and seek hand arthritis treatment before the condition worsens. For example, if you notice swelling or stiffness in your fingers or have difficulty gripping objects or performing everyday tasks, it may be time to see a doctor.

Conclusion

Hand arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is important to detect the early signs of hand arthritis and take hand arthritis prevention measures to minimize the risk of further damage. 

Performing exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding repetitive hand movements can help prevent hand arthritis from developing or progressing. If you believe you may be experiencing hand arthritis symptoms, seek medical advice and begin implementing preventive measures today. 

With the right approach and early detection, you can protect your hands and continue to enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle.