Wrist

Wrist arthritis refers to the inflammation and discomfort experienced within the wrist joint, characterized by symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness. The wrist joint, comprising numerous small bones connecting the hand and forearm, facilitates various hand movements. Arthritis in this area leads to painful swelling and inflammation, affecting daily activities. Common causes include osteoarthritis, resulting from cartilage wear over time, post-traumatic arthritis following wrist injuries, rheumatoid arthritis as an autoimmune condition, psoriatic arthritis often accompanying psoriasis, and gout triggered by excessive uric acid levels. Symptoms may include reduced range of motion, warmth, redness, and weakness in the wrist and hand. Diagnosis involves physical examinations, blood tests to identify inflammation markers, and X-rays to assess cartilage breakdown. Nonsurgical treatments include hot/cold compresses, splints, medications like NSAIDs, and steroid injections. Surgical interventions such as carpectomy, denervation, fusion, or joint replacement may be necessary for severe cases. Prevention strategies are limited, but wearing a splint can alleviate pressure on the wrist. While most individuals can manage symptoms with conservative measures, severe cases may require surgical intervention to improve quality of life. Regular consultation with healthcare providers is essential for monitoring and managing symptoms effectively.

Hands

Arthritis of the hand is a condition characterized by inflammation and deterioration of the tissues within the hand joints. This ailment affects various areas of the hand, including the base of the thumb, knuckles, and joints of the fingers. Common types of hand arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms typically manifest as pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity in the affected joints. The condition progresses as cartilage wears away, leading to bone-to-bone contact and subsequent discomfort. Risk factors for developing hand arthritis include age, gender (more common in women), ethnicity (more prevalent in white individuals), obesity, previous hand injuries, and genetic predisposition. Complications may arise, such as limited mobility, joint deformities, and chronic pain, impacting daily activities. Treatment options encompass splints or braces, medications, steroid injections, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, surgical interventions like joint fusion, joint replacement, or tendon transfer may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and restore hand function. Regular monitoring and management by healthcare professionals is essential for effectively addressing hand arthritis.