Arthritis of hand and wrist joints can be inflammatory or degenerative.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder where the joint cartilage is worn down due to loss of ligamentous joint stability. It can lead to joint pain, stiffness or deformity. The most commonly affected joints in the hand are at the base of the thumb (near the wrist) and the end joint of the index finger (close to the fingertip). Osteoarthritis commonly develops in people with a history of a joint injury or long term heavy hand use, but can also have a genetic origin.
Inflammatory arthritis is considered a (systemic) joint disease. Rheumatoid arthritis affects multiple joints, and can particularly affect hand and wrist joints. In advanced cases, joint swelling, instabilty, deformity and stiffness develops.
Treatment
Our hand therapist will assess your hands carefully before designing an appropriate treatment plan. Taking your daily activities into account, the therapist may fabriate a custom made splint for your fingers, hand or wrist to support the affected joints.
Also, a gentle strengthening program can improve the muscles needed to support your affected joints.
A personally tailored therapy program can greatly improve hand function and reduce pain.
Splints for arthritis support
A well-made splint or premade orthosis can alleviate pain and increase hand strength and function.