Treating Hand Arthritis Without Surgery
Hand arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the inflammation of the joints in the hand, which makes everyday activities like grasping objects, opening jars, or typing on a keyboard difficult and painful. If left untreated, hand arthritis can lead to chronic pain and disability and, in severe cases, may require surgery. However, there are non-surgical treatments available that can help manage the symptoms of hand arthritis and improve your quality of life. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most effective non-surgical treatments for hand arthritis.
1. Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by hand arthritis. However, it's essential to talk to your doctor before taking any medication, as some drugs may interact with other medications or have adverse side effects.
2. Hand therapy
Hand therapy is a type of physical therapy that focuses on restoring the function and mobility of your hand. A hand therapist will teach you specific exercises and stretches to improve your hand function, reduce pain, and prevent further damage to your joints. Hand therapy may also include the use of specialized tools or splints to help protect your hand and reduce stress on your joints.
3. Injections
Corticosteroid injections can help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by hand arthritis. The doctor will inject a corticosteroid medication directly into the affected joint, which may provide immediate relief. However, corticosteroid injections are not a long-term solution, and frequent injections can weaken your joint and cause additional damage.
4. Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by hand arthritis. A warm moist towel or heated pad can help improve blood flow and reduce stiffness in your hand. Conversely, a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel can help reduce swelling and numb pain in your hand.
5. Lifestyle changes
Making changes to your lifestyle can help manage the symptoms of hand arthritis. For instance, reducing the amount of stress on your hands by using assistive devices like jar openers or using thicker pens or pencils can help reduce joint stress. Moreover, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet can help reduce inflammation in your body and minimize the symptoms of hand arthritis.
Conclusion
Hand arthritis can be a debilitating condition that affects your quality of life. While surgery may be the only solution in severe cases, non-surgical treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent further joint damage. If you are experiencing hand arthritis symptoms, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for your condition. At Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute, we have a team of experienced orthopedic specialists who can help diagnose and treat your hand arthritis symptoms effectively. If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon in Altamonte Springs, FL, contact us today to learn more about our services.