Description...

Pain and inflammation within the wrist or hand joints, typically becoming more common as one grows older. The cartilage, a type of cushioning for the joint, becomes lost or damaged. Consequently, the bones rub and wear against each other.

There are three types of arthritis that commonly affect the wrist and hand:

Osteoarthritis is known as degenerative or "wear & tear" arthritis. This becomes quite common for people as they grow older. Over the years, cartilage, which provides the smooth surfaces covering the ends of bones so they can move against each other smoothly, becomes worn and frayed. As a consequence, the joint becomes inflamed, swollen and painful. Osteoarthritis progresses slowly, with the pain and stiffness worsening as time goes by.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a system-wide inflammatory disease in which the person's own immune system attacks and destroys the cartilage.

Post-traumatic arthritis may develop after an injury occurs to the wrist or hand. This type of arthritis is quite similar to osteoarthritis and may even develop years after a fracture, sprain or ligament injury.

Treatment...

There is no cure for arthritis, but there are ways to minimize its effect on your life.

• Wear an iGO Compression Support Glove, an iGO Wrist Support or an iGO Wrist Wraparound to stabilize the wrist, improve joint mobility and increase blood flow, which will help relieve pain and decrease swelling.

• Talk to your physician about a cortisone shot for pain relief.

• Surgery is available in extreme cases.

• At-home exercises may increase strength and range of motion.

 

At-Home Exercises...

Wrist Bends:

Place your forearm on a flat surface with your wrist hanging off the side, palm down. Bend your hand at the wrist, with fingertips pointing toward the floor. Hold this stretch for five to ten seconds, then slowly lift the hand. Curl your fingers as you gently pull the wrist backward, holding for five to ten seconds. Release. Repeat ten times, then repeat with the opposite arm.

Ball Grip:

Hold a rubber ball, crumpled-up piece of paper or other round, squeezable object in your hand. Spread your fingers wide. Squeeze the ball or object as hard as you can for five seconds, then release. Repeat the exercise ten times, then switch to the opposite hand. Repeat for two additional sets on each hand.