Arthritis is a disease that attacks the tissues of your joints.
Arthritis often affects the hands due to their complex structure of 27 bones, making numerous joints.
These joints are small, and the complex movement between them allows our dexterity.
This also means they are susceptible to wear and tear, and inflammatory changes will often affect multiple joints and lead to restricted function.
Our hands work hard every day. Frequent, repetitive movements put extra strain on the joints. Certain joints in the hand are more susceptible to arthritis than others. The joint at the base of the thumb and joints at the end of the fingers are common sites for arthritis.
Types of Arthritis affecting the hands
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type of arthritis in the hands, often referred to as “wear & tear” as the cartilage that cushions the joints deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling.
Rheumatoid arthritis
This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the joint lining causing pain, inflammation and damage to the joints.
Psoriatic arthritis
This is an arthritis associated with psoriasis, a skin condition. It can cause swelling in the joints of the fingers leading to pain and stiffness.
What are the symptoms?
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Decreased range of movement
• Nodules or bumps
• Wasting of muscles of hand particularly around the thumb.
• Crepitus
• Warmth and redness
• Deformities: swan neck deformity or boutonniere deformity
How can phystiotherapy help
Click here to see our video of some hand care exercises
Give those hard-working hands some love and make sure they are happy!
If you have any questions or would like some help and advice, please do contact us at the clinic.
