What is the Most Effective Treatment for Hand Arthritis?
Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. When it affects the hands, it can significantly impact daily activities. Finding the most effective treatment for hand arthritis is crucial to alleviating pain and improving hand function.
Dr. Chaitanya Karande Patil is a renowned hand surgeon in Pune, known for his expertise in treating hand and upper limb conditions. With extensive experience and a compassionate approach, Dr. Chaitanya Karande Patil is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for patients with hand arthritis.
What is Hand Arthritis?
Hands can get arthritis. This happens when the cushion between your hand bones wears down. It makes your hands sore, stiff, and hard to use for everyday things. There are different types of arthritis, like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, that can cause this.
Symptoms of Hand Arthritis
Pain and tenderness in the joints
Swelling and stiffness
Difficulty in gripping or holding objects
Reduced range of motion
What is the treatment for Hands Arthritis?
Non-Surgical Treatments
Medications:
Medicines that your doctor gives you can help with pain and swelling in your hands.
Therapies:
Physical or occupational therapy can improve hand strength and flexibility.
Splinting:
Wearing a splint or brace can support the hand and alleviate symptoms.
Lifestyle Changes:
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding repetitive hand movements can ease arthritis symptoms.
What are the surgical treatments for Hand Arthritis?
When non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical intervention might be considered. A hand surgeon can evaluate the condition and recommend the most suitable surgical options, such as:
Joint fusion (arthrodesis):
Dr. Chaitanya Karande, an arthritis treatment in Pune, sometimes recommends a procedure called arthrodesis for certain joint problems in the hand. During this procedure, the bones of the affected joint are fused together. This helps to relieve pain by preventing the bones from rubbing against each other. However, it also means that the joint will no longer be able to move. Arthrodesis is often used for joints like the base of the thumb or the small finger, where pain and instability are common issues.
Joint replacement (arthroplasty):
This procedure involves removing the damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial implant. Joint replacement is typically used for the larger joints in the hand, such as the knuckles. While it can help to relieve pain and improve function, artificial joints in the hand are not as durable as those in larger joints, such as the hip or knee, and may need to be replaced over time.
Tendon Repair:
Tendon repair surgery fixes torn tendons. Tears can happen from sudden injuries, overuse, or degenerative conditions. Surgery typically involves stitching the torn ends together. In some cases, a tendon graft from another part of your body may be needed. After Tendon repair surgery, expect to wear a splint and attend physical therapy for recovery, which can take weeks or months.
Hand arthritis can make everyday activities painful and difficult. Treatment options range from medications and therapy to surgery. Non-surgical treatments like medicine, therapy, and splints can help manage symptoms. If these don’t work, surgery might be needed, like joint fusion or replacement, or tendon repair. Dr. Chaitanya Karande Patil, a skilled hand surgeon in Pune, specializes in treating hand arthritis and offers compassionate care to improve patients’ quality of life.
