{"id":5485,"date":"2025-07-01T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-07-01T09:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/uncategorized\/hand-and-wrist-arthritis-treatment\/"},"modified":"2025-07-01T13:22:27","modified_gmt":"2025-07-01T13:22:27","slug":"hand-and-wrist-arthritis-treatment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/deep-research\/hand-upper-extremity-restoring-function-and-dexterity\/hand-and-wrist-arthritis-treatment\/","title":{"rendered":"Hand and Wrist Arthritis Treatment"},"content":{"rendered":"

Management Options for Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h1>\n\n

<\/p>\n

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide<\/span> 1<\/sup><\/span>. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is particularly common in the hands and wrists. Hand and wrist arthritis can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as writing, opening jars, and buttoning clothes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Anatomy of the Wrist and Arthritis<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

The wrist is one of the most complex joints in the body. It is made up of eight small bones called carpals, which connect the bones of the forearm (radius and ulna) to the bones of the hand (metacarpals)<\/span> 1<\/sup><\/span>. Arthritis in the wrist may occur in different places where these bones connect:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Distal radioulnar joint arthritis:<\/b> <\/span> This is arthritis at the base of your wrist, where your two forearm bones, your radius and your ulna, meet. This joint allows you to turn your palm up.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Midcarpal joint arthritis:<\/b> <\/span> This is arthritis between the eight small carpal bones. These bones move together with your finger bones when they move.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Radiocarpal joint arthritis:<\/b> <\/span> This is arthritis at the point where your two forearm bones and your carpal bones meet. This joint allows you to rotate your wrist and flex and extend your hand.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Types of Arthritis<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

    There are a number of different types of arthritis that can affect the hand and wrist. The most common types are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

      \n
    1. Osteoarthritis<\/b> <\/span> is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in a joint breaks down. It can develop due to normal wear and tear in the wrist, particularly in older people and those who have a family history of arthritis<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>. Osteoarthritis in the wrist can also develop from Kienb\u00f6ck’s disease.<\/span><\/li>\n
    2. Kienb\u00f6ck’s disease<\/b> <\/span> occurs when the blood supply to one of the small bones in the wrist (the lunate) is disrupted, causing the bone to die and collapse. Over time, this can lead to osteoarthritis in the wrist<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
    3. Rheumatoid arthritis<\/b> <\/span> is an autoimmune disease that causes the body’s immune system to attack the lining of the joints. It often starts in smaller joints, such as those found in the hand and wrist<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>. Rheumatoid arthritis can cause tendon rupture, leading to deformity and loss of function in the hand<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>. Early surgical intervention may be more likely to be successful in treating rheumatoid arthritis of the hand and wrist<\/span> 3<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
    4. Psoriatic arthritis<\/b> <\/span> is a form of arthritis that affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

      The symptoms of hand and wrist arthritis can vary depending on the type of arthritis and the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:<\/span><\/p>\n

        \n
      1. Pain<\/span><\/li>\n
      2. Stiffness<\/span><\/li>\n
      3. Swelling<\/span><\/li>\n
      4. Warmth<\/span><\/li>\n
      5. Redness<\/span><\/li>\n
      6. Decreased range of motion<\/span><\/li>\n
      7. Weakness<\/span><\/li>\n
      8. Clicking or crackling sounds when the joint moves<\/span><\/li>\n
      9. Carpal tunnel syndrome (numbness or tingling in the wrist)<\/span> 1<\/sup><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

        There is no cure for arthritis<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>, but there are a number of treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include conservative measures, such as splinting, occupational therapy, and injections, as well as surgical procedures, such as joint fusion, joint replacement, and tendon transfer.<\/span><\/p>\n

        Conservative Treatment Options<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

        Conservative treatment options are often the first line of treatment for hand and wrist arthritis. These treatments can help to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. Conservative treatment options include:<\/span><\/p>\n

        Activity Modification<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

        One of the first steps in managing hand and wrist arthritis is to limit activities that worsen your pain<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>. This may involve avoiding repetitive motions or heavy lifting.<\/span><\/p>\n

        Splinting<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

        Splints are devices that are worn to support and protect the joints. Splints can be helpful for people with hand and wrist arthritis by:<\/span><\/p>\n

          \n
        1. Resting the joint<\/span><\/li>\n
        2. Providing support<\/span><\/li>\n
        3. Reducing pain<\/span><\/li>\n
        4. Improving joint alignment<\/span><\/li>\n
        5. Lessening strain on the joint<\/span> 5<\/sup><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

          There are two main types of splints: resting splints and working splints<\/span> 6<\/sup><\/span>. Resting splints are worn at night or during rest periods to help reduce inflammation and pain<\/span> 6<\/sup><\/span>. Working splints are worn during activities to support the joints and reduce pain<\/span> 6<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Occupational Therapy<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

          Occupational therapy can help people with hand and wrist arthritis to learn new ways to do everyday tasks that may be difficult because of their arthritis. Occupational therapists can also teach people how to protect their joints from further damage.<\/span><\/p>\n

          Occupational therapy can help with hand and wrist arthritis by:<\/span><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Providing advice on using your joints without straining them<\/span><\/li>\n
          2. Providing splints to support your joints while working or resting<\/span><\/li>\n
          3. Helping with choosing tools and equipment to help with your activities, including assistive devices<\/span> 7<\/sup><\/span><\/li>\n
          4. Teaching techniques to help with planning your activities, pacing yourself, and relaxation<\/span><\/li>\n
          5. Providing exercises to improve hand and wrist strength and mobility<\/span><\/li>\n
          6. Providing advice on driving, mobility problems, and\/or home adaptations if needed<\/span><\/li>\n
          7. Providing support to help with work activities<\/span><\/li>\n
          8. Providing fatigue management advice<\/span> 7<\/sup><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Pain Medications<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

            Pain medications can be used to relieve the pain and inflammation associated with hand and wrist arthritis.<\/span><\/p>\n

              \n
            1. Over-the-counter pain relievers<\/b> <\/span>, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can be helpful for mild to moderate pain<\/span> 8<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
            2. Topical pain relievers<\/b> <\/span>, such as creams and gels, can also be helpful<\/span> 9<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
            3. For more severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain medications, such as opioids<\/span> 8<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
            4. Other medications that may be used to treat hand and wrist arthritis include<\/span> corticosteroids<\/b> <\/span> (oral or injected) and<\/span> biologic agents<\/b> <\/span>8<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

              Hot and Cold Packs<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Applying hot and cold packs to the affected joints can help to reduce pain and swelling<\/span> 1<\/sup><\/span>. Cold packs can help to numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Heat packs can help to relax the muscles and increase blood flow to the area.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Contrast Soaks<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Contrast soaks involve alternating between soaking the affected hand or wrist in warm and cold water. This can help to reduce swelling and improve circulation<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Injections<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              There are two main types of injections that may be used to treat hand and wrist arthritis: corticosteroid injections and hyaluronic acid injections.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Corticosteroid Injections<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h4>\n\n

              Corticosteroid injections are injections of a steroid medication into the joint. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications that can help to reduce pain and swelling. Corticosteroid injections are often used for people who have not responded to other conservative treatments.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Cortisone shots might be most effective in treating inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis<\/span> 10<\/sup><\/span>. However, there is a risk of a “flare” after a cortisone shot, where the pain may get worse for 1 to 2 days before the steroid takes effect<\/span> 11<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Hyaluronic Acid Injections<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h4>\n\n

              Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that is found in the fluid that lubricates joints. Hyaluronic acid injections can help to replace the lost hyaluronic acid in the joints and reduce pain and stiffness. Hyaluronic acid injections are most commonly used for people with osteoarthritis.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Hyaluronic acid injections, also called viscosupplementation, help replace the lubricant lost to breakdown in osteoarthritis<\/span> 12<\/sup><\/span>. Different brands have different dosing schedules, usually one injection per week for three or five weeks<\/span> 12<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h4>\n\n

              Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are a newer treatment option for hand and wrist arthritis. PRP is made from your own blood and contains a high concentration of platelets, which are cells that help with healing. PRP injections may help to reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing<\/span> 1<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Surgical Procedures<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

              Surgical procedures are usually considered for people with hand and wrist arthritis who have not responded to conservative treatments. Surgical procedures can help to relieve pain, improve joint function, and correct deformities. Surgical procedures for hand and wrist arthritis include:<\/span><\/p>\n

              Joint Fusion<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Joint fusion is a surgical procedure in which the bones in a joint are fused together. This procedure can eliminate pain, but it also eliminates movement in the joint. Joint fusion is typically used for people with severe arthritis who have a lot of pain and limited range of motion.<\/span><\/p>\n

              During the procedure, the surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and then uses pins, plates, or screws to hold the joint in a permanent position<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>. Bone grafts may also be used to help the bones fuse together<\/span> 13<\/sup><\/span>. In some cases, the surgeon can perform a partial fusion, in which just some of the bones are fused together. This addresses the damaged joint surfaces but leaves the healthy joints intact to preserve some wrist motion<\/span> 2<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Joint Replacement<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Joint replacement is a surgical procedure in which the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial joint. This procedure is typically used for people with severe arthritis who want to maintain movement in the joint. Joint replacement can relieve pain and improve joint function, but it is a more invasive procedure than joint fusion.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Patient selection for wrist replacement surgery is very important to ensure a good outcome<\/span> 14<\/sup><\/span>. There is also a possibility of tendon rupture as a complication of joint replacement surgery<\/span> 15<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Tendon Transfer<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Tendon transfer is a surgical procedure in which a tendon is moved from one part of the hand to another. This procedure is typically used for people who have lost function in a tendon due to arthritis or injury. Tendon transfer can help to restore function to the hand. Tendon transfer surgery is often a last resort after other treatments have failed<\/span> 16<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Tendon transfer involves moving a functioning tendon from its original attachment to a new one to restore the action that has been lost<\/span> 17<\/sup><\/span>. The time from rupture to surgery should be considered when performing a tendon transfer<\/span> 17<\/sup><\/span>. In some cases, tendon grafts can be used as an alternative to tendon transfer<\/span> 17<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Synovectomy<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Synovectomy is a surgical procedure in which the inflamed lining of the joint (synovium) is removed. This procedure is typically used for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Synovectomy can help to reduce pain and swelling. The procedure may be performed by open surgery or arthroscopic surgery<\/span> 3<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Synovectomy is not a permanent solution for rheumatoid arthritis, as the inflammation can return<\/span> 18<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Tenosynovectomy<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h3>\n\n

              Tenosynovectomy is a surgical procedure in which the inflamed lining of the tendon sheath (tenosynovium) is removed. This procedure is typically used for people with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions that affect the tendons. Tenosynovectomy can help to reduce pain, swelling, and tendon weakness<\/span> 3<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/p>\n

              Risks and Benefits of Treatment Options<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

              Each treatment option for hand and wrist arthritis has its own risks and benefits. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option with your doctor to determine which treatment is right for you.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
              Procedure<\/b> <\/span><\/th>\n Benefits<\/b> <\/span><\/th>\n Risks<\/b> <\/span><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
              Splinting<\/span><\/td>\nReduces pain, rests the joint, supports the joint, improves joint alignment, lessens strain on the joint<\/span> 5<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nSkin irritation, pressure sores, nerve compression<\/span> 19<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Occupational therapy<\/span><\/td>\nImproves function, reduces pain, protects joints, helps with choosing assistive devices<\/span> 7<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nMay not be effective for all people<\/span> 20<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Pain medications<\/span><\/td>\nRelieves pain<\/span> 8<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nSide effects, such as stomach upset, drowsiness, and addiction<\/span> 21<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Corticosteroid injections<\/span><\/td>\nReduces pain and inflammation<\/span> 10<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nCartilage damage, joint infection, tendon weakening, pain flare<\/span> 10<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Hyaluronic acid injections<\/span><\/td>\nReduces pain and stiffness<\/span> 12<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nPain, swelling, and stiffness at the injection site<\/span> 12<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Joint fusion<\/span><\/td>\nEliminates pain, improves stability<\/span> 22<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nLoss of mobility, risk of nonunion<\/span> 22<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Joint replacement<\/span><\/td>\nRelieves pain, restores movement<\/span> 23<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nImplant loosening, infection, nerve damage, tendon rupture<\/span> 23<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Tendon transfer<\/span><\/td>\nRestores function<\/span> 17<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nInfection, bleeding, nerve damage<\/span> 24<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Synovectomy<\/span><\/td>\nReduces pain and swelling<\/span> 18<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nInfection, stiffness<\/span> 25<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
              Tenosynovectomy<\/span><\/td>\nReduces pain, swelling, and tendon weakness<\/span> 3<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\nPostoperative adhesions<\/span> 26<\/sup><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

              Recovery Process<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

              The recovery process for hand and wrist arthritis treatment varies depending on the treatment option. Conservative treatments, such as splinting and occupational therapy, typically have a shorter recovery time than surgical procedures.<\/span><\/p>\n

                \n
              1. Splinting:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for splinting may take 6+ months<\/span> 27<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              2. Occupational therapy:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for occupational therapy may take up to 3 months<\/span> 28<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              3. Pain medications:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for pain medications may take 3 to 5 days<\/span> 29<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              4. Corticosteroid injections:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for cortisone shots may take 24 hours to a week<\/span> 30<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              5. Joint fusion:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for joint fusion may take 3 to 12 months<\/span> 31<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              6. Joint replacement:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for joint replacement may take 6 to 12 weeks<\/span> 32<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              7. Tendon transfer:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for tendon transfer may take 1 to 2 months<\/span> 17<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n
              8. Synovectomy:<\/b> <\/span> Recovery time for synovectomy may take 3 to 6 weeks<\/span> 33<\/sup><\/span>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                After surgery, you will need to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing. You may need to wear a splint or cast for several weeks, and you may need to participate in physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion.<\/span><\/p>\n

                Conclusion<\/b> <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\n\n

                Hand and wrist arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition. However, there are a number of treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments range from conservative measures, such as splinting and occupational therapy, to surgical procedures, such as joint fusion and joint replacement. Each treatment option has its own set of benefits and risks. It is important to work with your doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan that is right for you, taking into account your specific needs and circumstances. Medical studies have shown that early intervention and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes for people with hand and wrist arthritis. If you are experiencing symptoms of hand and wrist arthritis, it is important to seek medical attention to discuss your treatment options.<\/span><\/p>\n

                Works cited<\/b><\/span><\/h4>\n\n

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                32. Hand Arthritis Treatment Seattle | Wrist Arthritis Bellevue, WA – Dr Wayne Weil, accessed February 17, 2025, https:\/\/www.seattlehandandelbow.com\/arthritis-of-hand-wrist-hand-wrist-surgeon-seattle-bellevue-wa.html<\/a><\/p>\n

                33. Synovectomy, Tendon Sheath, Radical (Tenosynovectomy), Flexor Tendon, Palm and or Finger, each Tendon – St George Surgical Center, accessed February 17, 2025, https:\/\/www.stgeorgesurgical.com\/procedure\/synovectomy-tendon-sheath-radical-tenosynovectomy-flexor-tendon-palm-andor-finger-tendon\/<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                Management Options for Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide 1. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is particularly common in the hands and wrists. Hand and wrist arthritis can […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5484,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[531],"tags":[869,334,162,871,159,872,813,873,853,870],"class_list":["post-5485","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-hand-upper-extremity-restoring-function-and-dexterity","tag-hand-arthritis","tag-joint-pain","tag-osteoarthritis","tag-psoriatic-arthritis","tag-rheumatoid-arthritis","tag-stiffness","tag-surgery","tag-swelling","tag-treatment-options","tag-wrist-arthritis"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5485","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5485"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5485\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5484"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5485"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5485"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.orthogate.org\/press\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5485"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}