The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center — Plantation, FL

(954) 635-5300
The Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center

Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist

Hand & Wrist

Arthritis of the Hand & Wrist

Arthritis is a leading cause of hand and wrist pain and disability. The two most common forms affecting the hand are osteoarthritis (OA), caused by wear and tear of cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition that attacks the joint lining. Both can significantly impair grip strength, dexterity, and quality of life.

Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis typically affects the base of the thumb (basal joint arthritis), the middle finger joints (PIP joints), and the end joints (DIP joints). It develops gradually with age and repetitive use.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that causes inflammation of the joint lining (synovium), leading to pain, swelling, and eventual joint destruction. It often affects multiple joints symmetrically and can cause characteristic deformities such as ulnar drift.

Treatment

Non-surgical management includes activity modification, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. For RA, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) prescribed in coordination with a rheumatologist are essential.

When conservative care is insufficient, surgical options include joint fusion (arthrodesis) for stability and pain relief, joint replacement (arthroplasty) for select joints, and synovectomy for RA. Dr. Kinchelow tailors the surgical plan to each patient's functional needs and goals.

Common Symptoms

  • Joint pain and stiffness, worse in the morning
  • Swelling and warmth around joints
  • Decreased grip strength
  • Bony nodules at finger joints
  • Crepitus (grinding sensation)
  • Deformity in advanced cases

Treatment Options

  • Splinting and activity modification
  • NSAIDs and topical anti-inflammatories
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • DMARDs for rheumatoid arthritis
  • Joint fusion (arthrodesis)
  • Joint replacement (arthroplasty)
  • Occupational therapy

Ready to Get Help?

Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating arthritis of the hand & wrist. Schedule a consultation today.

Request Appointment (954) 635-5300