Hand arthritis can impact nearly every part of daily life, turning simple tasks into challenging efforts. When arthritis affects the hands, even basic activities like typing or opening a jar can become difficult.
Among the over 100 types of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common in the hands. In the U.S., 53.2 million adults have an arthritis diagnosis, highlighting the importance of understanding these conditions.
Let us explore how osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis affect the hands. We will also provide insights for managing symptoms to improve quality of life.
What Is Osteoarthritis and What Causes It
Osteoarthritis, often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, results from the breakdown of cartilage that cushions the bones in the joints. This condition is most seen in the elderly, but it can affect younger individuals, too, especially those with joint injuries or a genetic predisposition. Osteoarthritis in the hands typically affects the small joints and can lead to stiffness, pain, and decreased range of motion.
The causes of osteoarthritis are numerous, ranging from age and genetics to obesity and physical activity levels. Repetitive hand activities like typing or manual labor might increase the risk as well.
Diagnosis usually involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests like X-rays. Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on managing pain and improving joint function. This may include medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies for OA
Treating osteoarthritis is not solely about medical treatment; lifestyle plays a crucial role. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and applying heat or cold to affected areas can relieve symptoms. Hand exercises such as squeezing a stress ball can strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
Home remedies also extend to diet. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods like fish, nuts, and leafy greens can help reduce symptoms. These simple changes can make a significant impact on daily life.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis and What Causes It
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can occur at any age and typically affects both hands simultaneously. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms often include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and fatigue. Unlike osteoarthritis, these symptoms can come and go, with flare-ups causing intense discomfort.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Smoking and certain infections might increase susceptibility. This knowledge guides both prevention and treatment strategies.
Doctors diagnose RA through physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies. Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in the hands usually involves medications to reduce inflammation. Biologics and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are commonly used to slow disease progression.
Lifestyle Modifications and Home Remedies for RA
Lifestyle modifications and home remedies help manage rheumatoid arthritis in the hands. Regular low-impact exercise improves joint flexibility and strength, while a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce inflammation. Incorporating anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and ginger into meals can also be beneficial.
Ergonomic tools can minimize strain during daily tasks. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses, relaxes muscles, while cold therapy can reduce swelling during flare-ups. Home remedies like Epsom salt baths and gentle hand massages provide further relief.
How Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Hands Differs from Osteoarthritis
While both conditions affect the joints, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis have distinct characteristics. Osteoarthritis progresses slowly, primarily affecting the cartilage in the joints. RA often leads to more severe joint damage and may cause deformities in the hands. Furthermore, RA often leads to joint warmth and redness, features seldom seen in osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is usually diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50. Rheumatoid arthritis is usually diagnosed in individuals between 35 and 50. Specific blood tests detect inflammation markers, and imaging studies reveal joint changes to accurately diagnose each condition.
Hand Therapy for Treating Arthritis in Hands
Occupational therapy for arthritis in the hands consists of specialized techniques to restore function and independence for those with upper extremity issues. A skilled hand/occupational therapist can enhance your quality of life.
Hand Therapy for Osteoarthritis
Hand therapy for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and preserving hand function. Therapists help strengthen the muscles surrounding the affected joints, which helps stabilize them and alleviate stress on the cartilage.
Additionally, they may recommend adaptive tools and joint-protection techniques to support patients in their daily activities. Key components of this therapy include:
- Strengthening Exercises: These exercises target muscles around the joints to improve stability.
- Adaptive Tools: These devices are designed to reduce discomfort and make daily tasks easier. Splinting is an example of an adaptive tool that supports proper joint alignment and protects the joints.
- Joint-Protective Techniques: These are strategies to minimize strain on joints during activities.
Occupational Therapy or Hand Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Occupational or hand therapy for RA aims to manage inflammation, protect joints, and maintain hand function during flare-ups. Therapists introduce gentle stretching and strengthening exercises that help prevent stiffness while avoiding overexertion of inflamed joints.
Education on energy-conservation techniques and adaptive strategies is also essential. Important aspects of therapy for RA include:
- Gentle Stretching: These exercises improve hand flexibility and reduce hand stiffness.
- Strengthening Exercises: These help build resilience without stressing already inflamed joints.
- Energy Conservation Techniques: These teach patients how to manage their energy for daily tasks.
- Adaptive Tools: These involve the use of specialized devices that reduce joint strain and enhance comfort. Ergonomic utensils, adaptive grippers, and lightweight cooking tools are examples.
If you are dealing with symptoms of hand arthritis, seeking professional treatment is one of the best decisions you can make. Orthopedic doctors are experts in treating arthritis in the hands.
Treatment for Arthritis in Hands in Bethesda, Germantown, and Rockville, MD
For expert arthritis treatment, visit us here at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Dr. Peter G. Fitzgibbons is our board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand treatments.
Dr. Fitzgibbons is highly regarded in the community for his knowledge, skill, and excellent bedside manner. He is committed to helping patients regain optimal hand function and improve their quality of life. Dr. Fitzgibbons’s focus is on personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs.
In all three locations, we offer comprehensive hand care which includes hand and occupational therapy. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Fitzgibbons, call us today at (301) 515-0900 or schedule an appointment online.
