Arthritis in the hand and wrist is a common condition that can significantly impact daily life, limiting the ability to perform simple tasks such as gripping, writing, or lifting. As the hands and wrists are essential for most activities, arthritis in these areas can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced functionality. At Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation, interventional pain management techniques provide effective relief and help restore quality of life for patients.
Types of Arthritis Affecting the Hand and Wrist
Two primary types of arthritis commonly affect the hand and wrist:
- Osteoarthritis (OA):
- This degenerative condition results from the wear and tear of cartilage, which serves as a cushion between bones.
- Common in the base of the thumb, wrist joints, and finger joints.
- Symptoms include joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and difficulty gripping objects.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA):
- An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium).
- Causes inflammation, swelling, pain, and eventual joint deformity.
- RA tends to affect the same joints on both sides of the body and can occur in conjunction with other systemic symptoms like fatigue.
Symptoms of Hand & Wrist Arthritis
- Pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest.
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling and tenderness around the joints.
- Weakness in grip strength.
- Reduced range of motion.
- Visible changes, such as enlarged knuckles or a shifted thumb base.
Interventional Pain Management for Arthritis
When conservative treatments such as over-the-counter medications, splints, and physical therapy fail to provide adequate relief, interventional pain management can be a game-changer. These minimally invasive techniques aim to reduce pain and inflammation, improve function, and slow disease progression.
Here are some approaches used in treating hand and wrist arthritis:
- Corticosteroid Injections:
- These injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joints, providing relief from pain and swelling.
- Results can last several months, allowing patients to regain mobility and perform daily activities more comfortably.
- Viscosupplementation (Hyaluronic Acid Injections):
- While primarily used for larger joints like the knee, this therapy is sometimes applied to small joints in the hand to improve lubrication and reduce stiffness.
- It’s most effective in the early stages of osteoarthritis.
- Nerve Blocks:
- Targeted injections that block pain signals from specific nerves in the hand or wrist.
- Provide immediate relief and can help identify the source of pain.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy:
- PRP uses a patient’s blood to extract platelets rich in growth factors.
- When injected into arthritic joints, PRP may promote healing, reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of arthritis.
- Ultrasound-Guided Procedures:
- Imaging technology ensures precision during injections or minimally invasive treatments, enhancing effectiveness and safety.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Managing Arthritis
In addition to interventional pain management, adopting specific lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms and prevent the progression of arthritis:
- Ergonomic Tools: Using larger grips can reduce strain on arthritic joints.
- Joint Protection Techniques: Avoid activities that strain the hands or cause repetitive stress.
- Exercise and Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises improve joint mobility and muscle support.
- Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Incorporating omega-3-rich foods, leafy greens, and whole grains may reduce inflammation.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience persistent hand or wrist pain that interferes with daily activities, it’s time to consult a specialist. Untreated arthritis can lead to joint deformity and irreversible damage, making early intervention critical.
Advancements in Interventional Treatments
At Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation, advancements in pain management technologies allow for personalized treatment plans. These approaches provide a less invasive alternative to surgery and aim to optimize patient outcomes. For instance:
- Regenerative Therapies: Emerging treatments like stem cell therapy show promise in repairing damaged tissues and managing arthritis symptoms.
- Neurostimulation Devices: These devices target nerve pathways to modulate pain, offering hope for chronic arthritis sufferers.
Living Well with Hand & Wrist Arthritis
While arthritis is a chronic condition, effective management can greatly enhance your quality of life. Combining interventional pain management with lifestyle modifications empowers patients to regain control over their symptoms and their lives. Whether it’s reducing inflammation, preserving joint function, or minimizing pain, the right approach can make a world of difference.
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in Richmond Hill – Queens, and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Queens office at (718) 215-1888 or (516) 419-4480 for the Long Island office to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialists, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko or Dr. Sonny Ahluwalia.