Hand osteoarthritis
Wear of the small joints of the fingers and hand.
Overview
Hand osteoarthritis affects the small finger joints, causing pain, stiffness and bony swellings. It is common with age and often runs in families. Exercise, joint protection and pain management help maintain function.
Symptoms
- Pain and stiffness in the finger joints
- Bony swellings (nodes) at the joints
- Reduced grip and dexterity
- Stiffness, often worse in the morning
Causes
- Age-related cartilage wear
- Genetic predisposition
- Previous hand injury
Treatment
- Hand exercise and joint protection
- Pain management strategies
- Aids and adaptations for daily tasks
- Injection or surgery for selected joints