Osteoarthritis is a condition caused by wear or damage to the cartilage that usually serves to relieve the pressure of bone movement at the joints. This can cause pain in the joints and can also lead to a retention of fluids that makes the area swell, increasing the level of pain. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, and when present in the hand, can lead to heat in the joint area, a grinding feeling during movement or the formation of cysts in the fingers above affected joints. Fortunately, there are treatment options available to relieve the symptoms of hand osteoarthritis.
Home Remedies
For mild cases of osteoarthritis in the hand, steps that can be taken by patients at home include applying heat to the affected hand joint with a hot water bottle, heat pack or heating pad. Patients are also encouraged to exercise the joint by taking it through its full range of motion by stretching and bending. Proper nutrition and adequate sleep are also prescribed for patients suffering from osteoarthritis in the hand. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines and pain relievers such as Advil and Tylenol can also be used to combat pain. It is very important not to utilize any home remedies without first consulting with a doctor.
Medications
In addition to over-the-counter medicines, there are prescription drugs and dietary supplements available to those with hand osteoarthritis. The medication most widely prescribed is Celebrex, a type of non-steroidal anti-Inflammatory (NSAID) drug. Celebrex has a number of side effects, including intestinal problems and possible heart complications. Because of the potential cardiovascular risks, doctors may select an alternate type of medicine such as a prescription acetominophen like Tramadol or Ultracet. In the case of severe pain, opioids like Vicodin, OxyContin, Roxicodone, and Ultram may be used, but because these drugs can be habit forming, they are infrequently prescribed. Some patients have found relief taking glucosamine and chondroitin, two dietary supplements that form the building blocks of cartilage. These supplements have not been scientifically tested on osteoarthritis of the hand.
Injections
In moderate to severe cases of hand osteoarthritis, injections of anesthetics and steroids may be given. These shots usually provide pain relief for weeks or months and are administered in a doctor's office. While the injections may be performed in a series, they cannot be given indefinitely due to the possibility of side effects. Extended usage of steroid injections can cause a weakening of tendons and poses a risk of infection.
Splinting
Splinting may be used to relieve the pain of hand osteoarthritis, as a single treatment or in conjunction with injections. For osteoarthritis patients, a metal splint is used to restrict the mobility of the affected joints. This helps support the joint and reduces the amount of stress placed upon it. Because splinting can affect the quality of a person's day to day life, it is typically only employed for limited time periods to relieve severe pain.
Surgery
In some cases, joints can be repaired from damage caused by the loss of cartilage with surgery. Joint fusions involve stabilizing joints so that they no longer move. This prevents further wear and relieves pain and pressure, but results in a loss of mobility, which requires an adjustment on the part of the patient. A final surgical option is joint replacement, which involves removing the bone and replacing it with a prosthetic. This option allows for movement and relief from pain; however, the procedure is relatively new and may not be performed by all doctors.
Tags: hand osteoarthritis, affected joints, dietary supplements, joints This, osteoarthritis hand, severe pain