When every hand hurts: osteoarthritis in hand and fingers

When opening a jam glass becomes a challenge, the cause is often not on the lid – but on the joint. Especially in the elderly, and especially in women, osteoarthritis in the hand and finger joints is a widespread problem. But it doesn’t always cause pain. The joint wear often begins quietly and remains unnoticed for a long time.

A creeping process

Arthrosis is a chronic joint disease in which the protective cartilage between the bones is slowly broken down. In the hand, it mainly affects the small joints of the fingers, the thumb saddle joint and less often the wrist itself.

At the beginning, the wear often remains unnoticed, because not every arthrosis immediately complains. However, when it shows up, it often manifests herself through stiffness, swelling or a feeling of tension in her fingers – especially in the morning after getting up.

Over time, pain is added to movements, later also in rest phases. Fine motor activities such as writing, buttons or lifting objects are particularly difficult. The mobility decreases, and in advanced cases the joints change visibly: knots, axis deviations and deformations occur.

Who is particularly affected?

Women suffer from osteoarthritis much more often than men – especially in and after menopause. Hormonal changes seem to play a role as well as the genetic predisposition. If, for example, the mother or grandmother has finger arthrosis, the risk of subsequent generations increases. Earlier joint injuries, overloading, inflammatory diseases such as gout or rheumatism and lack of exercise can also play a role.

That happens in the joint

A healthy joint works like a perfectly lubricated hinge. The cartilage acts as a shock absorber and ensures that the bones slide smoothly. With osteoarthritis, this protective layer becomes brittle, cracked and thinner. The burden on the bones underneath increases and conversion processes are created in which new bone extensions form.

These are intended to compensate for the pressure, but often lead to further movement restrictions. Inflammation in the inner skin of the joints are common side effects that additionally intensify pain and swelling.

The diagnosis begins with a thorough survey: what complaints exist? Are there family preliminary loads? Were fingers or wrists used to be injured? In the physical examination, the doctor checks the mobility and painful pressure points.

An X -ray image ultimately shows typical signs of arthrosis: snapped joint column, compression of the bones and bony excesses. In addition, an MRI or a joint fluid analysis can also make sense to exclude other diseases.

What helps against pain?

The therapy pursues several goals: relieve pain, maintain mobility and slow down the progress of the disease. It is not possible to cure osteoarthritis, but with targeted treatment, a lot of quality of life can be regained.

Even small changes in everyday life can help – such as special aids with a reinforced handle or ergonomically shaped cutlery. Occupational therapists show those affected how they can protect their hands in everyday life without completely calm.

Pain and anti-inflammatory medication such as NSAR is used for acute symptoms. Cortisone can also calm inflammation – specifically injected into the joint. The diet can be supportive: a balanced, rather low -meat food with lots of vegetables is recommended. Dietary supplements such as glucosamine are under discussion, but a clear benefit has not yet been clearly proven.

When an operation makes sense

If conservative measures are no longer sufficient, a surgical intervention may be necessary. Depending on the affected joint, various methods are used – from stiffening to the joint replacement.

A so-called resection suspension plastic is often carried out, especially on the thumb saddle joint, in which a small hand root bone is removed and the joint is stabilized with a tendon. The aim is always to reduce pain and to maintain the best possible function of the hand.

The earlier the disease is recognized, the better complaints can be obtained. Movement, targeted relief and individual therapy are crucial to maintain the quality of life. And even if a glass is sometimes difficult to open: With the right treatment, everyday life is easier to grip again.