How Arthritis Treatment Works on Hands & Wrists
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Arthritis treatment of the hands and wrists is largely geared towards the preservation of function. Without our hands, wrists and fingers, we would be essentially non-functional. There are a few commonly utilized treatment modalities that we'll discuss. One form of treatment can include aquatic therapy, which is therapy performed in a pool environment. Typically, these pools are warmer than most recreational pools and offer better comfort and mobility to stiff joints in general. In the water, the pressure exerted on the hands by the water helps reduce any swelling that might be present, and the higher temperature improves motion.
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Non-invasive, Occupational Therapy (O.T.) is a widely used form of treatment for hand and wrist arthritis. Commonly used modes of treatment can include such activities as paraffin baths (hands are dipped in warm paraffin wax; the warmth increases blood supply to the hands and fingers, bringing much needed healing oxygen to the areas. It also helps to loosen stiff joints). Other O.T. activities can include "activities of daily living," or A.D.L.'s, which focus on performing such things as daily grooming and meal preparation to keep hands, wrists and fingers nimble.
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When non-invasive conservative treatment is just not enough, occasionally the use of surgery to improve movement and quality of life is necessary. Procedures can include tendon transfers, which provide improved strength and functionality. Other more involved procedures can include joint implants in the wrist and finger joints. These implants are typically made from material called Silastic (silicone-based) and are used when joints are severely degenerated and motion is greatly restricted.
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One surgical procedure that is occasionally used in the most severe cases of wrist arthritis is called a wrist fusion, or "arthrodesis." This can often involve the removal of some of the smaller bones of the wrist, and the wrist joint made permanently stiff. While motion is lost, if it was there to begin with, so is the pain. The wrist is usually "fused" in a position of maximum comfort and function.
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