Arthritis literally means inflammation of one or more joints. Arthritis is frequently accompanied by joint pain and is commonly a source of hand/wrist pain. Pain and stiffness may develop from ‘wear and tear’ to the joints of the hands and wrists, resulting in damage to the articular cartilage. This can be degenerative in nature, be gradual in onset, and may become chronic. Hand/wist arthritis can be seen in all age groups but is most common in older patients, obese individuals, heavy laborers and individuals with previous injuries to the hands.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Joint pain that can vary from an ache, to sharp pain and or burning .sensation during movement.
- Decreased mobility in the joint causing stiffness especially in the mornings.
- Muscle weakness around the arthritic joint.
- Cracking or creaking of joints.
- Nodules forming in the finger joints.