We use our hands every day for almost everything we do. We use them to accomplish complex tasks or something as simple as tying our shoes. However, hand and wrist pain can make these everyday tasks seem impossible.
If you currently find yourself in this situation, our experts can assist you! Schedule an appointment at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Marietta and Atlanta, Georgia today!
Hand arthritis is a common disorder that affects the joints in your hand, causing pain and inflammation. Due to the many joints within our hands, arthritis is common. If you develop arthritis in your hands, you may experience joint pain and swelling. It can also result in a deformity.
Common locations where arthritis can develop in your hand include:
There are many different types of arthritis that can affect your hands. The most common of these include:
Depending on the severity of your arthritis, it can affect you in several ways. Over time, as this condition progresses, many have found it hard to use their hands to accomplish tasks or perform daily activities essential for life that they never had an issue with in the past.
To diagnose arthritis of the hand and rule out other conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor will perform a physical examination of your hand. They will also take X-rays of your hand to identify any loss of bone cartilage and/or the formation of bone spurs.
Additionally, if your doctor suspects that you may have inflammatory arthritis, they may order a blood test to detect the presence of rheumatoid factor or other antibodies. This test can help determine whether or not the source of your pain is from rheumatoid arthritis.
They will also review your medical history and combine their findings to make an accurate diagnosis as to whether or not you have arthritis.
There are several factors that can have an impact on the treatment that you receive. The treatment your receive to reduce pain will depend on the following factors:
The following non-surgical treatments for hand arthritis can be used to provide pain relief:
We strive to treat hand pain without the need for hand surgery. However, sometimes a fusion or joint reconstruction surgery may be necessary.
If your hands do not respond to non-surgical treatments, then hand surgery may be required. Your doctor may recommend one of the following surgical approaches to reduce discomfort:
Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis. However, mild to moderate symptoms can be managed. You can do this by:
Schedule an appointment at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Marietta and Atlanta, GA today to learn more. Our specialists are ready to give you the attention you deserve. Contact us today!
Randall Alexander, MD