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by: RayLam
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Hand arthritis is specifically painful and debilitating due to the fact that hands have nineteen bones and eight small bones that has several small joints. The more common forms of hand arthritis include osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Further causes of hand arthritis might include psoriasis, gout and infection.


The most common symptoms of hand arthritis are pain, swelling and reduced movement resulting in diminished grip and pinch strength. The doctor or physician will also examine all other joints to help aid the diagnosis of hand arthritis.


The doctor can also determine the severity of the hand arthritis by observing the clinical appearance of the hand. Further to this X-rays will be utilized to further identify the severity of hand arthritis by seeking potential bony outgrowths.


Physical therapy for hand arthritis has also proven to be very effective as a treatment option. There are specific exercises, which can help in loosening the stiffened joints caused by the hand arthritis. Steroids can also be injected locally into the affected area, however this is only a form of pain relief, and certainly not a long-term treatment option for hand arthritis.


Hand arthritis can be an extremely debilitating condition, however with proper diagnosis by your doctor or physician the symptoms can be effectively managed and rehabilitation can take place. Like most forms of arthritis early diagnosis is the key to aiding recovery in hand arthritis.