Introduction
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, affecting millions of people in the UK. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and deformities in the fingers, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. In this blog, we will discuss how to manage and treat osteoarthritis of the fingers, with a focus on treatment options available in the UK.
What is Osteoarthritis of the Fingers?
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the joints. In the fingers, it can cause the joints to become painful, swollen, and stiff. Over time, osteoarthritis can lead to bony growths, called nodes, which may cause the fingers to become misshapen.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis in the Fingers
• Pain and Stiffness: The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and stiffness in the affected joints. The pain may be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Swelling and Tenderness: The joints in your fingers may become swollen and tender to the touch.
• Bony Growths: In some cases, osteoarthritis can cause bony growths, called Heberden’s or Bouchard’s nodes, to form on the finger joints. These growths can make the fingers look enlarged and misshapen.
Managing Osteoarthritis at Home
• Hand Exercises: Regular hand exercises can help maintain joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Simple exercises, such as squeezing a stress ball or stretching the fingers, can improve mobility and reduce pain.
• Pain Relief: Over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. These medications are widely available at UK pharmacies.
• Splints: Wearing a splint on the affected finger can help support the joint and reduce pain during activities. Splints are available through the NHS or can be purchased privately.
Medical Treatments Available in the UK
• Steroid Injections: If over-the-counter medications are not providing enough relief, your GP may recommend corticosteroid injections. These injections can reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from pain. Steroid injections are available through the NHS and private healthcare providers.
• Physiotherapy: NHS physiotherapists can provide exercises and manual therapy to help improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Physiotherapy can be especially helpful for those dealing with severe osteoarthritis.
• Surgery: In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joints. Common surgical procedures include joint fusion and joint replacement, both of which are available in the UK through the NHS and private healthcare providers.
Conclusion
Osteoarthritis of the fingers can be a painful and frustrating condition, but there are many treatments available to help manage the pain and maintain joint function. From home remedies to advanced medical treatments, it is possible to live a full and active life with osteoarthritis. If you are experiencing persistent pain or stiffness in your fingers, contact your a hand surgeon to explore your treatment options.