Arthritis is a progressive condition that can get worse without proper diagnosis and treatment. At the Center for Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, we offer the most advanced non-surgical and surgical treatment options for arthritis in the hands, wrists, arms, and shoulders.
DIP/PIP or Finger Arthritis
A degenerative joint condition that commonly affects the distal interphalangeal (DIP) and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) finger joints.
Shoulder and Elbow Arthritis
Stiffness and discomfort in the shoulder and elbow joints due to inflammation and cartilage degeneration.
First CMC, Basilar Joint, or Base-of-Thumb Arthritis
Osteoarthritis of the base of the thumb, also known as first carpometacarpal joint (CMC) or basilar joint arthritis is the second most common form of arthritis in the hand.
Wrist Arthritis
Pain, swelling, and limited movement in the wrist joint, often caused by inflammation and wear-and-tear.
Rheumatoid Arthritis in Hands
Chronic inflammation in the joints of the hands, leading to joint damage, deformity, and reduced function due to the body's immune system attacking its tissues.
Chronic Joint Pain
Persistent discomfort and reduced dexterity in the hands due to ongoing inflammation, wear-and-tear, or underlying conditions, causing prolonged joint pain and stiffness.
Arthritis Treatment Options
Accurately diagnosing and treating a patient with arthritis involves identifying the root cause of their disease and treating not only the joint, but the underlying medical problems as well.
Treatments for Mild Arthritis
Medication
For patients with osteoarthritis, acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended to use sparingly to alleviate symptoms. There are no approved medications currently that slow the progression of osteoarthritis. For rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, medicines like NSAIDs or acetaminophen may be used. There are also medications that will slow the progression and alleviate symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, such as methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine®), leflunomide (Arava®), prescribed by a rheumatologist.
Splinting
Splints can provide support to the affected joint and lessen strain, as well as provide joint alignment. Your doctors and/or hand therapist will discuss splinting or bracing options and how often and how long you should wear them. You may be a candidate for a same day brace to be fabricated.
Physical Therapy
We refer our patients to certified hand therapists (CHTs) who have achieved the highest level of training in hand therapy. These therapists have completed their training in occupational therapy and then further sub specialized and become certified as hand therapists.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections may also be an option for some patients to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Using X-ray guidance, arthritic joints are targeted with a fine needle, and a mixture of anesthetic and steroid medication is injected to provide pain relief.
Treatments for Moderate to Severe Arthritis
Joint Denervation Surgery
Joint denervation surgery is a new and unique treatment option that combats arthritis by eliminating the associated neurologic pain pathway. This procedure addresses the “supply” of pain to the brain rather than the joint itself.
Arthroscopy
This minimally invasive surgery involves inserting a small camera into the joint to inspect and repair damaged cartilage and bone. It can clean out debris, remove inflamed tissue, and smooth damaged surfaces.
Joint Fusion
Damaged joints are fused together with plates, screws, rods or pins so they stop moving painfully. Multiple joint fusions are available in the fingers, hands, and wrist.
Joint Replacement
Diseased joint surfaces are removed and replaced with artificial implants made of metal, plastic or ceramic. Multiple joints within the upper extremity have options for joint replacement.
Soft Tissue Repair
Tendons and ligaments around arthritic joints may become stretched or torn and require repair through techniques like tissue grafting or tightening.
Synovectomy
Inflamed joint lining (synovium) is surgically removed to reduce swelling and pain.
