Arthritis of the Hand: Types, Causes and Treatment Options

The general term of “arthritis” means inflammation of the joints, and can occur anywhere in the body. As with many conditions, the cause of arthritis symptoms can vary and is often unknown.

While arthritis can cause difficulty in other areas of the body, arthritis of the hands can be particularly troublesome, as we use our hands for so many important activities and daily tasks.

Signs and symptoms of arthritis of the hand include:

• Pain or weakness in the hands and fingers
• Swollen or stiff joints in the hand/wrist
• Dull or burning pain with increased use
• Decreased range of motion or loss of function
• Red or inflamed skin
• “Popping” sound with joint movement
• Hand or finger deformities

TYPES OF ARTHRITIS OF THE HAND

There are different types of arthritis, and there are three main types that most commonly affect hands.

1. OSTEOARTHRITIS (OA)

What is it?

OA is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 32 million people in the US. Sometimes referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, it is a degenerative disease that occurs when protective cartilage wears down over time. It most commonly affects the hands, hips and knees.

What causes it?

OA symptoms are caused by a breakdown of cartilage, and there are factors that increase a person’s risk. The risk of OA increases with age, and women are more likely to develop it than men. Genetics and obesity can also increase risk. Joint injuries, repeated stress on the joint and bone deformities can also lead to OA.

What are the symptoms?

• OA symptoms in the hands include:
• Hands that ache when used
• Joint stiffness that is worse in the morning
• Difficulty moving fingers or a weak grip
• Swelling and tenderness, especially around the knuckles or wrist

2. RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS (RA)

What is it?

RA is a chronic autoimmune and inflammatory disease which causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue. The condition mainly affects joints, and often starts in the small joints of the hands and feet. About 40% of people with RA also experience other symptoms unrelated to their joints.

What causes it?

The cause of RA is unknown, though some researchers believe there is a genetic component to developing the disease. Women are more likely than men to have RA, and it generally starts in middle age. A family history of RA, smoking and being overweight can also increase a person’s risk.

What are the symptoms? Some symptoms of RA include:

Tender, warm or swollen joints; numbness or tingling in the fingers
Joint stiffness, especially if it’s worse in the morning or after periods of rest
Fatigue, fever and loss of appetite

3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

What is it?

PsA is a type of arthritis affecting people who have psoriasis, a disease that causes red patches and scaly skin. About a third of people who develop psoriasis go on to develop PsA, and the arthritis component often occurs years after developing psoriasis. Both are chronic conditions that tend to worsen over time.

What causes it?

The cause of psoriasis/PsA is not known, but many researchers believe genetics, age and environment all play a role in developing the condition.

What are the symptoms?

Nail changes are often an early sign, with tiny dents forming or nails becoming brittle and separating from the nail beds
Swollen fingers or deformed joints caused by inflammation

HOW CAN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY HELP?

Depending on the diagnosis, symptoms and lifestyle, each patient who comes our way has different needs. Your treatment team can develop a customized plan for your individual needs to help achieve the lifestyle goals that are important to you.

Though these types of arthritis have no cure, an experienced occupational or hand therapist can help in the following ways:

• Slowing the progression of symptoms
• Provide an exercise plan to increase strength and better support the joints
• Improve joint mobility and function
• Help control and reduce inflammation to prevent flare ups of symptoms
• Splinting and bracing as needed to properly rest or support joints
• Adaptions for activities oaf daily living to maintain independence and reduce pain, including recommendations for assistive devices as needed
• Surgical recovery in cases where surgery is needed
• Provide support and coping strategies for the emotional effects of arthritis

Renue offers experienced hand therapists who can recommend a treatment plan that is right for you. Learn more or request an appointment or free screening online at www.renuept.com/handtherapy.