In short, finding relief from hand arthritis is possible with the right specialist.
- Early intervention works. Visiting a specialist sooner can prevent permanent joint damage.
- Surgery is optional. Many patients find relief through medication and therapy alone.
- Lifestyle changes help. Simple adjustments to daily habits reduce strain on your hands.
Finding a skilled orthopedic doctor for the hands is the first step toward reclaiming your quality of life from arthritis. Our hands are our primary tools for interacting with the world. We often take their complex function for granted until pain strikes.
Arthritis can turn simple tasks like buttoning a shirt or turning a doorknob into painful challenges. This guide explores the various treatment avenues available to you. We will cover everything from conservative management to surgical intervention.
What Is Hand Arthritis?
Arthritis involves inflammation of one or more joints. It causes pain and stiffness that often worsen with age. The two most common types affecting the hands are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis involves wear and tear damage to the cartilage of your joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joint lining. Both conditions can lead to significant discomfort and loss of function.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor for Your Hands?
You might wonder when it is time to seek professional help. Do not wait until your pain becomes unbearable. Consult an orthopedic doctor if you experience swelling or stiffness.
Persistent pain that does not go away with rest is also a warning sign. You should also seek help if you have difficulty moving your fingers. A sensation of grating or grinding in the joints is another common symptom.
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management. An orthopedic doctor for the hands can identify the specific type of arthritis you have. This ensures you receive the most appropriate treatment plan.
How Is Hand Arthritis Diagnosed?
Your journey to relief begins with a comprehensive evaluation. Your doctor will examine your hands for signs of swelling or deformity. They will assess your range of motion and grip strength.
Imaging tests are standard for confirming a diagnosis. An X-ray – not MRI – is typically the first imaging tool used. It reveals bone spurs and the narrowing of joint spaces.
Blood tests may be necessary if rheumatoid arthritis is suspected. These tests look for specific markers of inflammation in your body. An accurate diagnosis allows your doctor to rule out other conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
What Are the Nonsurgical Treatment Options?
An experienced orthopedic doctor for the hands will likely begin with conservative treatments. These methods aim to reduce pain and preserve function without surgery. They are often highly effective for early to moderate arthritis.
Medications
Medications are often the first line of defense. Analgesics help reduce pain but do not reduce inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help relieve both pain and inflammation.
Common over-the-counter options include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Your doctor may prescribe stronger NSAIDs if necessary. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used specifically for rheumatoid arthritis.
Splinting and Injections
Splinting helps support the joint and ease the stress placed on it. Wearing a splint during periods of heavy use and at night can protect the hand.
Injections offer targeted relief for severe inflammation. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory medications. They can be injected directly into the affected joint.
Physical Therapy
Specialized therapy is a cornerstone of nonsurgical treatment. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint. This improves stability and reduces pain.
When Is Surgery Recommended?
Surgery is usually a last resort when other methods fail. An orthopedic doctor for the hands will consider surgery if pain is disabling. It is also an option if you have a severe deformity or loss of function.
Joint Fusion
Joint fusion is also known as arthrodesis. This procedure involves removing the damaged cartilage. The surgeon then fuses the two bones together.
The fused joint will no longer move. This eliminates pain caused by the bones rubbing together. It helps provide stability and strength to the hand.
Joint Replacement
Joint replacement is also known as arthroplasty. This procedure involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one. The artificial joint may be made of plastic, ceramic, or metal.
This option preserves more joint movement than fusion. It is commonly performed on the knuckle joints. Recovery times vary based on the complexity of the procedure.
Can Lifestyle Changes Help Manage Symptoms?
Lifestyle modifications play a vital role in long-term management. Protecting your joints reduces the risk of further damage. Small changes can make a big difference in your daily comfort.
- Use assistive devices. Jar openers and button hooks reduce strain on your fingers.
- Modify your grip. Hold objects with your palm rather than your fingers.
- Apply heat or cold. Heat soothes stiff joints while cold reduces acute swelling.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also beneficial. It reduces overall inflammation in the body. This can have a positive impact on arthritis symptoms.
Orthopedic Doctor for the Hands in Plantation, FL
Choosing the right specialist is critical for your recovery. At Baylis and Brown Orthopedics, we specialize in comprehensive hand care. We understand the unique challenges arthritis poses to your daily life.
We utilize the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques. Our goal is to restore function and alleviate pain. We create personalized treatment plans for every patient for the most effective results.
If you are looking for an expert orthopedic doctor for the hands in the Plantation area, look no further. We are committed to helping you return to the activities you love. Do not let arthritis dictate your life.
Contact Baylis and Brown Orthopedics today by calling us at (954) 476-8800 or send us an appointment request to schedule your consultation.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/7082-arthritis-of-the-wrist-and-hand
https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/arthritis-of-the-hand/
