Finger Arthritis
Hand, Wrist & Finger Arthritis
Finger arthritis is a common condition that affects the small joints of the hand and wrist, leading to stiffness, pain, and reduced movement. Among the many forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types affecting the fingers.
Osteoarthritis develops as cartilage gradually wears away, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that inflames the lining of the joints. If left untreated, finger arthritis can worsen over time, causing visible deformities and limiting fine motor skills needed for daily activities like turning keys, typing, or buttoning clothes.
Causes of Arthritis
Arthritis in the fingers often develops from several contributing factors. Age-related “wear and tear” is the most common cause of osteoarthritis, while autoimmune conditions are responsible for rheumatoid arthritis.
Previous injuries, repetitive hand use, and family history can also increase the risk. Over time, these factors damage the cartilage and joints, leading to pain and functional limitations in the hands.
Symptoms of Arthritis
The symptoms of finger arthritis vary depending on the severity and progression of the condition:
- Joint stiffness and pain
- A burning feeling in joints
- Hand/wrist redness or swollenness after use
- Joint warmth
- Hand/wrist weakness and restricted movement abilities
- Inability to perform pinching or gripping movements
- Cracking, clicking or grinding sounds when engaging in joint movement
- For complex, prolonged arthritis cases, joint(s) may be noticeably larger
Arthritis at the finger's ends leads to nail plate ridges or dents due to mucous cysts in the affected joints.
Diagnosis of Arthritis
Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most effective treatment plan. Dr. Oscar Brumby-Rendell, an orthopedic surgeon based in
Adelaide, conducts a detailed assessment that includes a review of the patient’s medical history and a physical examination. Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays is often used to detect cartilage loss, bone changes, or narrowing of the joint space. Blood tests may also be performed to confirm or exclude rheumatoid arthritis.
Can you get arthritis in your hand at a young age?
Individuals of all ages can experience arthritis, but this condition is more prominent in individuals over 60. Studies indicate that by 75 years old, approximately 80% of people will have arthritis in their joints. Arthritis can be developed in both men and women; however, this disease is more prominent in women.
Treatments
Arthritis can be treated through various conservative and surgical options. The best course of action depends on your condition's progression, the number of joints affected, and your lifestyle preferences, age and activity level.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Medications
Anti-inflammatories (including Ibuprofen) are generally used to treat arthritis. These medications cease the body's production of chemicals that lead to pain and swelling of the joint.
Applying heat or ice
Pain and swelling can be reduced through ice application, and joints can be loosened through heat.
Resting the affected area
Inflammation can be eased by reducing or ceasing your involvement in pain-inducing activities. A splint can also be worn to allow the affected area to rest; however, it can deteriorate muscles if worn for a prolonged period.
Dietary supplements
Cartilage building is supported by the compound glucosamine, which often reduces arthritic symptoms. However, there is little evidence to indicate that this treatment actually helps.
Exercises
Therapeutic exercises often reduce arthritic symptoms and allow for proper joint healing. A hand therapist can provide these exercises.
Cortisone injections
Symptoms can be relieved by injections, which administer steroidal solution into the joints. This treatment option cannot be used long-term but may be repeated a limited number of times for symptom relief.
Surgery may be recommended by Dr Brumby-Rendell if conservative measures are ineffective or if an individual's arthritis strongly inhibits their everyday activities.
Surgical Treatments
Surgical intervention aims to increase joint function and decrease pain. Locally and internationally trained Dr Brumby-Rendell has a special interest in reconstruction and keyhole procedures. He implements minimally invasive techniques to reduce trauma and quicken healing times. The following surgical procedures may be beneficial depending on your specific condition.
Reconstructive surgery
In this surgery, Dr Brumby-Rendell replaces the arthritic bone(s) with a part of a forearm tendon. This procedure aims to increase function and decrease pain, especially that of the thumb, and generally brings highly effective results. To see a tendon transplant, which relieves thumb arthritis, view this video.
Joint fusion
This surgical procedure, also known as arthrodesis, aims to increase joint stability and strength and decrease pain by fusing the joint. A side effect of this surgery is that the joint loses its ability to bend.
Joint replacement
Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with this surgery, which replaces affected joints with artificial joints. Over time, these new joints begin to wear.
Recovery
With extensive experience in upper limb diagnosis, treatment, and surgery, Dr. Oscar Brumby-Rendell provides comprehensive care for patients with hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder conditions.
Recovery from finger arthritis depends on the treatment chosen. Non-surgical approaches aim to reduce symptoms and slow disease progression, while surgical recovery may involve splinting, hand therapy, and specific exercises to regain mobility and strength.
Dr. Brumby-Rendell provides personalized rehabilitation guidance, ensuring each patient has the best chance at restoring function and maintaining long-term hand health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals of all ages can experience arthritis, but this condition is more prominent in individuals over 60. Studies indicate that by 75 years old, approximately 80% of people will have arthritis in their joints. Arthritis can be developed in both men and women; however, this disease is more prominent in women.
How Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell can help
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell provides consultation and treatment in Adelaide for various hand and wrist conditions.
Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell has extensive upper limb experience in areas of diagnosis, treatment and surgery. In your consultation, Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell will develop a treatment plan with you to ensure the best possible results for your hand or wrist condition.
Click for more information regarding shoulder, hand, wrist, and elbow conditions which Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell has experience in treating.
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