When it comes to wrist arthritis, it usually affects individuals as they get older or occur with certain conditions. This form of arthritis is seen in association with other various disorders such as the following:
- Post-traumatic arthritis occurs once the joint surface wears out right after an injury to the wrist joint cartilage. This condition typically occurs once there is a break on the wrist that comprises the cartilage surface of the joint. In case the fracture covers up to the joint surface, the cartilage can end up uneven and susceptible to wrist arthritis.
- Wrist instability occurs after injuries to the small-sized ligaments and bones in the wrist. Once these structures are damaged, the normal movements of the bones become abnormal that can wear out the cartilage of the wrist joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is a usual cause of wrist arthritis. The condition is a systemic issue that affects the entire body. This form of arthritis can trigger inflammation of the joints that can be severe enough that it leads to destruction of the normal bones and cartilage.
Indications of wrist arthritis
Always bear in mind that wrist arthritis typically leads to the following symptoms:
- Wrist pain
- Difficulty holding objects
- Swollen joint
Additionally, individuals who suffer from substantial tenderness or bo
ne spurs can experience aggravation of the nerves that border the joint. The irritation of the nerves can trigger tingling and numbness of the fingers.
Treatment options for wrist arthritis
Lifestyle modifications
Many individuals who end up with symptoms of wrist arthritis can manage them by making the necessary alterations to their activities. Avoiding particular actions or avoiding picking up and hauling weighty loads can provide relief.
Wrist splint
Supportive braces are beneficial to those who have wrist arthritis. These braces function as a support to the movements of the wrist. These could not prevent severe injuries but can help perform simple movements.
Application of heat and anti-inflammatory medications
Applying heat through a heat pack can be used to manage wrist arthritis. As for medications, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to alleviate the pain triggered by wrist arthritis.
Cortisone injections
Cortisone is a potent medication that deals with inflammation. A doctor should be consulted regarding the possible benefits of a cortisone injection.
Surgical intervention
Surgery is not usually needed but performed if the symptom is severe enough and other treatment options are not effective in delivering relief.
- Wrist fusion is a process that eradicates all movement at the wrist joint by fastening the bones of the forearm to the bones in the wrist and hand. The fusion ensures predictable relief from pain but the loss of motion can prevent some normal activities.
- Wrist replacement aims to remove the impaired bone and replace it with a plastic and metal implant. The procedure is not considered common and the results are not as predictable as with other surgical procedures.
- Proximal row carpectomy is a procedure that removes 3 of the small bones from the wrist joint. Once the arthritic bone is removed, the pain is reduced.