Arthritis in the hand and wrist is a common condition that causes inflammation, pain and stiffness within the joints. Over time, the protective cartilage that cushions the joints can gradually wear away, leading to friction between the bones and reduced joint movement.

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This process is similar to arthritis affecting larger joints such as the hips or knees, but because the hands and wrists are involved in almost every daily activity, symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and hand function.

Hand and wrist arthritis may affect:

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• the fingers

• thumb joints

• wrist joints

• grip strength and dexterity

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The condition can develop gradually over time and may worsen without appropriate management or treatment.

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What Are the Symptoms of Hand & Wrist Arthritis?

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Symptoms can range from mild stiffness to persistent pain and reduced hand function.

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Pain and Stiffness

Many patients experience a deep aching pain in the joints, particularly:

• first thing in the morning

• after periods of inactivity

• following repetitive hand use

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Stiffness may improve slightly with movement but can return later in the day.

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Swelling and Inflammation

Affected joints may appear swollen, tender or warm due to inflammation within the joint.

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Reduced Grip Strength

Weakness in the hand can make everyday activities more difficult, including:

• opening jars

• gripping objects

• writing

• lifting items

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Reduced Movement and Flexibility

Patients may notice increasing difficulty bending or straightening the fingers and wrist comfortably.

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Joint Deformity

In more advanced cases, arthritis can lead to visible changes in joint shape, with fingers becoming bent, enlarged or misaligned.

 

What Does Arthritis in the Hand and Wrist Feel Like?

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Patients often describe arthritis pain as:

• a persistent dull ache

• stiffness during movement

• sharp pain with certain activities

• discomfort that worsens with gripping or repetitive use

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Symptoms may fluctuate over time, with periods of increased inflammation or flare-ups.

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When Should You See a Hand Specialist?

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If hand or wrist pain is becoming persistent, limiting daily activities or affecting grip strength and movement, specialist assessment can help identify the cause and prevent further joint damage.

 

Early diagnosis and treatment can play an important role in reducing pain, maintaining function and slowing progression of the condition.

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At Midland Hand Clinic, we provide expert assessment and personalised treatment plans for arthritis affecting the hand, wrist and thumb joints.

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How Is Hand & Wrist Arthritis Diagnosed?

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Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed consultation and physical examination.

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Your specialist will assess:

• joint movement

• swelling and tenderness

• grip strength

• areas of pain and stiffness

• overall hand function

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X-rays are commonly used to evaluate:

• cartilage loss

• joint narrowing

• bone changes

• severity of arthritis

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In some cases, additional imaging such as ultrasound or MRI scanning may also be recommended to provide further detail.

 

How Is Hand & Wrist Arthritis Treated?

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Treatment aims to:

• reduce pain

• improve movement

• support joint function

• minimise progression of arthritis

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The most appropriate treatment will depend on:

• severity of symptoms

• joints affected

• activity level

• impact on quality of life

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Non-Surgical Treatment Options

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Many patients benefit from conservative treatment approaches, particularly in earlier stages of arthritis.

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Treatment options may include:

• anti-inflammatory medication

• splinting or wrist supports

• activity modification

• hand therapy

• targeted steroid injections

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Steroid injections can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief in affected joints.

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Surgical Treatment Options

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For more advanced arthritis or persistent symptoms, surgical treatment may be considered.

 

Depending on the affected joint and severity of arthritis, procedures may include:

• joint replacement

• joint fusion

• arthritis excision procedures

• wrist surgery

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The goal of surgery is to reduce pain, improve hand function and restore quality of life where possible.

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Mr G Shyamalan will discuss the most appropriate treatment options based on your individual condition and symptoms.

 

Recovery & Rehabilitation

 

Recovery following treatment or surgery varies depending on the severity of arthritis and the procedure performed.

Some patients may benefit from:

• hand therapy

• rehabilitation exercises

• splinting

• gradual strengthening programmes

 

These approaches can help improve mobility, reduce stiffness and optimise long-term function.

 

Expert Arthritis Treatment in Birmingham & Solihull

 

If arthritis pain is affecting your hand, wrist or thumb function, specialist assessment can help identify the most effective treatment options for your symptoms and lifestyle.

 

Mr G Shyamalan is an experienced consultant hand surgeon providing expert diagnosis and treatment for hand and wrist arthritis across Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Warwickshire.

 

Contact Midland Hand Clinic today to arrange your private consultation and explore treatment options designed to relieve pain and improve hand function.