Arthritis in hands can cause so much discomfort. People suffering from arthritis in their hands usually cannot do their daily activities anymore. Even a simple activity such as holding utensils when eating can be troublesome and difficult.
- Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that occurs in the hands.
- Osteoarthritis can be due to wear and tear of the joints brought about by old age.
- Osteoarthritis in the hands will form lumps or nodules around the knuckles.
- Rheumatoid arthritis and gout can also happen in the hands.
- Rheumatoid arthritis can cause hand deformations.
- Joints will be red and swollen if it is caused by rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
- Joint pains can worsen over time.
- Arthritis in the hands usually occurs in the carpometacarpal and the wrist joints.
- Arthritis in the hands is more common in women than men.
- Women are affected with arthritis at a younger age compared to men.
Prevention And Treatment Of Arthritis In Hands
It is difficult to cure arthritis in the hands, but there are ways on how one can prevent them. Here are also remedies that can help elevate pain in the hands.
- Take care of the joints while still young. It is important to start caring for the joints while still young.Avoid physical activities that can strain the joints.
- Maintain joint mobility. It is important to move the hands and fingers from time to time.
- Physical therapy can help restore mobility of the hands.
- Avoid hard, physical labor. Heavy physical labor can result to arthritis in the future.
- Maintain the ideal body weight. Obese and overweight people are prone to arthritis.
- Eat healthy diet and avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar.
- Avoid nicotine, alcohol and caffeine as they are said to increase the chance having arthritis.
- Cortisone injections may be prescribed by doctor that can help in the inflammation of the hands.
- Ice and heat treatment. This can help relax stiff joints, improve motions of the hands and reduce swelling.
- Taking in joint supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Both are necessary in the formation and rehabilitation of cartilage.
- Joint replacement surgery. This is necessary if the joints are eroding and causing friction to each other.
- Surgery. This can help correct hand deformities due to arthritis.