Hand and finger arthritis can be a very incapacitating ailment that impairs daily functioning. Expert in orthopedic solutions Dr. Vivek Mahajan will share his thoughts on the many forms of arthritis affecting the hands and fingers, along with information on their causes, symptoms, and therapeutic options.
Types of Arthritis in the Hand and Fingers
1) Osteoarthritis (OA): The most prevalent kind of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA), is a degenerative joint condition that causes pain, swelling, and limited movement in the hands and fingers as a result of the cartilage between joints deteriorating over time.
2) Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease that results in inflammation of the joints as a result of the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues. Smaller joints, such as the hands and fingers, are frequently the first to be affected by RA.
3) Psoriatic arthritis: An inflammatory skin disorder that affects some persons who have psoriasis. It may result in nail and finger abnormalities and edema.
4) Post-Traumatic Arthritis: This kind of arthritis arises following a hand or finger injury that may cause irreversible joint damage.
Signs and symptoms
1) Hand and finger joint pain, either continuous or sporadic.
2) Reduced range of motion, particularly following periods of inactivity, is referred to as stiffness.
3) Swelling: Swollen and sensitive-to-the-touch joints are possible.
4) Deformities: Joints may exhibit noticeable deformities with time.
5) Weakness: Difficulty using fine motor skills and decreased grip strength.
Causes
1) Age: As people age, their chance of acquiring arthritis rises.
2) Gender: Certain kinds of arthritis, like RA, are more common in women.
3) Genetics: The onset of arthritis may be significantly influenced by family history.
4) Injury: The chance of developing arthritis is increased by prior hand or finger injuries.
5) Occupation: Arthritis can develop over time in jobs that need repeated hand motions.
Handling and Medical Interventions
According to Dr. Vivek Mahajan, effective management of hand and finger arthritis includes a combination of medical treatment and lifestyle changes:
1) Medication: Anti-inflammatory, painkillers, and disease-modifying antirheumatic (DMARD) medications for RA-related disorders.
2) Physical therapy: Hand exercises to increase dexterity and strength while easing soreness and stiffness.
3) Braces and splints: To lessen strain on the joints while engaging in activities.
4) Using heat or cold packs to relieve pain and reduce inflammation is known as “hot and cold therapy.”
5) Lifestyle modifications include eating an anti-inflammatory diet, staying away from activities that aggravate symptoms, and maintaining a healthy weight.
6) Surgical Options: In more severe situations, a joint replacement, fusion, or repair may be required.
Tips for Managing Daily Activities
Dr. Vivek Mahajan stresses the significance of making useful modifications to reduce the strain on hands affected by arthritis:
1) Employ Assistive Devices: You can simplify your daily duties by using gadgets such as ergonomic culinary utensils, button hooks, and jar openers.
2) Change Your Circumstance: To reduce needless strain, place commonly used objects in an accessible location.
3) Take Breaks: To avoid overusing your hands, rest them periodically.
Conclusion
It might be difficult to live with hand and finger arthritis, but people can still have fulfilling lives if they use the appropriate management techniques. Seek medical advice from a physician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan if you have continuous discomfort in your hands or fingers. With his expertise, Dr. Vivek Mahajan emphasizes the significance of controlling arthritis with a complete approach that incorporates both medicinal therapies and doable lifestyle changes.
For More Information Contact: Hand and Finger Arthritis specialist Dr. Vivek Mahajan