Specialized Treatment for Hand & Wrist Arthritis in Louisville, KY

Hand and wrist arthritis is relatively common among adults over 50. Causing pain and stiffness throughout the hand and wrist joints, arthritis can make it difficult to enjoy your favorite activities or perform everyday actions, such as buttoning a shirt or typing. If disruptive arthritis symptoms have left you seeking treatment, Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, can help.

What Causes Hand & Wrist Arthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of hand and wrist arthritis. A natural part of the aging process, osteoarthritis is characterized by the progressive degeneration of cartilage that cushions the joints and allows for fluid, comfortable movement.

To some extent, osteoarthritis is an unavoidable aspect of the aging, although its effects can vary substantially from person to person. The following factors may accelerate cartilage breakdown in the hands or wrists or exacerbate arthritis symptoms:

• A traumatic injury, such as a broken wrist or thumb
• Overuse from certain occupations or activities, such as styling hair or playing piano
• A previous hand or wrist surgery
• A joint infection

Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of arthritis that can affect the hands and wrists. A chronic autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis causes marked swelling and stiffness around joints in the fingers and may severely impact hand function.

What Does Treatment for Hand & Wrist Arthritis Involve?

Hand and wrist arthritis is not reversible, but there are several steps that can be taken to reduce symptoms, improve joint health, and slow the progression of disease. Many patients benefit from a combination of conservative approaches, such as activity modification, medications, and physical therapy. In more advanced cases, surgery to fuse or replace damaged hand or wrist joints may be recommended.

At Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic, our team includes Nicholas Foeger, MD, PhD—a fellowship-trained hand specialist who excels in caring for patients with hand and wrist arthritis. Contact our professionals today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward finding relief.