Arthritis & Degenerative Conditions

Arthritis and degenerative conditions affect the joints, cartilage, and soft tissues of the hand and wrist, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and loss of function. Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions through both non-surgical and surgical approaches to improve mobility and quality of life.

Types of Arthritis & Degenerative Conditions

Osteoarthritis (OA) – Wear & Tear Arthritis

• Caused by cartilage breakdown due to aging, repetitive use, or previous injuries.
• Most commonly affects the base of the thumb (CMC joint arthritis) and finger joints.
• Symptoms: Joint pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced grip strength.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) – Autoimmune Arthritis

• A chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the joint lining (synovium), causing inflammation and deformities.
• Symptoms: Joint pain, swelling, warmth, deformities (ulnar drift, swan-neck, boutonnière deformities).

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

• Develops after fractures, dislocations, or ligament injuries that damage cartilage.
• Symptoms: Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling similar to OA.

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

• Associated with psoriasis, leading to joint inflammation and deformities.
• Symptoms: Swollen fingers, pitted nails, morning stiffness.

Gout & Crystal-Induced Arthritis

• Caused by uric acid buildup in joints (gout) or calcium deposits.
• Symptoms: Sudden severe pain, swelling, redness in the fingers or wrist.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications: NSAIDs, corticosteroid injections, DMARDs (for RA), and uric acid-lowering drugs (for gout).
• Splinting & Bracing: Reduces joint stress and supports weak joints.
• Physical & Occupational Therapy: Improves range of motion, grip strength, and daily hand function.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, joint-friendly exercises, and dietary changes.

Surgical Treatments

• Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): Stabilizes painful joints by fusing bones together, often used in severe arthritis.
• Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty): Damaged joints are replaced with artificial implants, commonly done for thumb arthritis.
• Synovectomy: Removal of inflamed joint lining in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Tendon Repairs & Transfers: Used for deformities caused by RA or post-traumatic arthritis.

Rehabilitation & Long-Term Management

• Post-Surgical Hand Therapy: Helps regain movement and strength.
• Assistive Devices: Adaptive tools for daily activities.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Monitor disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.