Understanding Hand Arthritis
One of the most common concerns we hear from patients is about developing arthritis in their hands. Arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling, making everyday tasks—like gripping a cup, typing, or gardening—feel difficult.
At Freedom Physical Therapy Services, our occupational and certified hand therapists help patients understand what arthritis is, why it happens, and most importantly, what can be done to manage symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle. This article will help you in better understanding hand arthritis.
What Is Hand Arthritis?
Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, often causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the fingers or wrist. There are many types of arthritis, but osteoarthritis (caused by joint wear and tear over time) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune condition) are the most common in the hand.
Patients often ask:
“Why did I get arthritis?”
“Can I make it go away?”
While arthritis cannot be completely reversed, there are effective ways to reduce symptoms, protect joints, and preserve hand function.
Why Did I Get Arthritis?
We don’t always know exactly why one person develops arthritis and another doesn’t, but there are several risk factors that can increase your likelihood:
- Age: Arthritis becomes more common with aging as joints experience natural wear.
- Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop arthritis, especially after age 50.
- Genetics: Family history can play a strong role.
- Joint Injuries: Prior hand or wrist injuries can contribute to early joint changes.
- Occupation: Jobs involving repetitive hand use, gripping, or vibration (e.g., construction, assembly work) can increase risk.
- Obesity: Extra body weight can add strain to joints and contribute to inflammation throughout the body.
Can I Make Arthritis Go Away?
While there’s currently no cure for arthritis, the goal of treatment is to manage pain, reduce inflammation, and preserve mobility. With the right guidance, many people continue to do the activities they love.
Here’s how an Occupational Therapist (OT) or Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) can help:
1. Exercise and Range of Motion
Gentle hand exercises—such as tendon glides and stretching—help maintain mobility and reduce stiffness. A hand therapist can teach you the correct techniques and progressions for your needs.
2. Splints and Bracing
Custom or prefabricated braces can provide support and rest for inflamed joints during a flare-up or prevent irritation during daily tasks.
3. Joint Protection and Energy Conservation
Your therapist can teach strategies to reduce joint strain, such as:
- Using larger, cushioned handles on tools
- Avoiding tight or prolonged gripping
- Distributing effort between both hands
- Planning rest breaks during repetitive tasks
4. Inflammation Management
Talk with your healthcare provider about anti-inflammatory medications or topical creams that may help calm flare-ups.
Ways to Lower Your Risk of Arthritis
While you can’t completely prevent arthritis, you can lower your risk and support long-term joint health with small daily habits:
- Maintain a healthy weight – helps decrease overall joint load and inflammation.
- Exercise regularly – strengthens muscles that support your joints and improves flexibility.
- Choose joint-friendly activities – mix in swimming, yoga, or cycling with higher-impact exercise.
- Protect your hands – wear gloves or supports when using tools or lifting heavy items.
When to See a Hand Therapist
If you notice persistent stiffness, swelling, or aching in your fingers or wrist, it’s best not to wait. Early intervention with a Certified Hand Therapist can help you stay active, avoid worsening symptoms, and prevent unnecessary joint strain.
To learn more about how hand therapy can help manage arthritis, reach out to Freedom Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment.