Wrist arthritis

As mentioned, symptoms of arthritis in the wrist can vary, but common symptoms include pain, stiffness and limited mobility in the joint. The pain is often described as a dull ache that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Stiffness in the joint is also common, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time. In some cases, people with wrist arthritis may also experience a grating or crunching sensation in the joint.

Other symptoms of wrist arthritis include:

• Limited range of motion in the wrist
• Weakness in the hand or fingers
• Deformity of the joint
• A sensation of warmth or tenderness in the joint
• Redness or inflammation in the joint

It's important to note that these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, and so it's crucial to seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

At Circle Health Group, our specialists are experts in identifying and treating arthritis in wrist symptoms. We understand that each patient's needs are unique, and we pride ourselves on providing tailored treatment plans to help manage the condition and improve quality of life.

Don't let arthritis wrist symptoms hold you back. Book a consultation today and let our experts guide you on the path to managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. With our comprehensive private wrist arthritis treatment options, you can be sure that you are in good hands.

Several types of arthritis can affect the wrist, but the most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which both present with similar symptoms as described above.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the wrist. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the joint wears down over time. As the cartilage wears down, the bones in the joint begin to rub against each other, causing pain and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it is most common in the joints that are used the most, such as the hips, knees, and hands or wrists. The wrist is a complex joint that is used for a wide range of activities, making it vulnerable to osteoarthritis.

Risk factors for osteoarthritis include ageing, obesity and a history of joint injury. Genetics can also play a role, as some people are more prone to developing osteoarthritis due to inherited genetic factors.

The condition typically affects people over the age of 40, it develops gradually over time, and it is more common in women than in men.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints, including the wrist. The immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joint, causing inflammation and damage to the joint.

The condition typically develops in people between the ages of 30 and 60, and is more common in women than men.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other parts of the body, including the hands, feet and other joints. While osteoarthritis is typically found in only one or two joints, rheumatoid arthritis may affect multiple joints at once. It can also cause a number of other symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and weight loss.

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Wrist arthritis can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in older adults. Risk factors for developing wrist arthritis include:

Age

As you get older, the risk of developing arthritis in the wrist increases.

Gender

Women are more likely to develop wrist arthritis than men.

Genetics

Some people are more prone to developing arthritis due to inherited genetic factors.

Previous injury or trauma to the joint

A history of joint injury can increase the risk of developing arthritis.

Overuse of the joint

Repetitive motions that put stress on the joint can increase the risk of developing arthritis.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions such as gout or psoriasis can also increase the risk of developing arthritis in the wrist.

Wrist arthritis is a degenerative condition that affects the joints in the wrist, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The condition is often caused by the natural wear and tear of the joints over time, but several other factors can contribute to the development of wrist arthritis.

In this section, we will explore the various causes of wrist arthritis and how they can affect the joints in the wrist.

Age-related wear and tear

One of the most common causes of wrist arthritis is age-related wear and tear. As we age, the cartilage that cushions the joints in the wrist can begin to wear down, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. This type of arthritis is known as osteoarthritis and is the most common form of arthritis in the wrist.

Trauma or injury

Another common cause of wrist arthritis is trauma or injury to the joint. This can include fractures, sprains, or dislocations that can damage the cartilage in the joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Sometimes, the trauma may not be severe enough to cause a fracture, but can still result in damage to the cartilage, leading to arthritis in the wrist.

Overuse

Overuse of the wrist can also lead to the development of arthritis. People who have jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive motions of the wrist are at an increased risk of developing arthritis in the wrist. The constant repetitive motions can cause wear and tear on the cartilage in the joint, leading to inflammation and pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect the joints in the wrist. In people with rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. This type of arthritis is less common than osteoarthritis, but it can be more severe and can lead to joint damage if left untreated.

Genetic factors

Research also shows that genetic factors can play a role in the development of wrist arthritis. People who have a family history of arthritis are at an increased risk of developing the condition.

There are several non-surgical treatment options available for wrist arthritis, including:

Medications

Our specialists may recommend over-the-counter or prescription medications to help reduce pain and inflammation in the joint. These may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, or stronger medications such as corticosteroids or opioids.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help to improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles that support the joint. Our physiotherapists will work with you to create a customised exercise program to help you manage your symptoms. This may include exercises to increase strength and flexibility, as well as range-of-motion exercises to help improve mobility.

Injections

Our specialists may also recommend corticosteroid injections to help reduce inflammation and pain in the joint. These injections can be administered directly into the joint and can provide relief for several months.

Arthritis wrist support

Wrist supports can help to reduce stress on the joint and provide support to the wrist. These supports can be worn during activities that put stress on the wrist, such as typing or lifting.

Occupational therapy

Our occupational therapists will work with you to teach you how to adapt your daily activities to reduce the stress on your wrist and improve your function. This may include advice on how to modify your work or home environment, or how to use tools or equipment in a way that reduces stress on the wrist.

These non-invasive treatment options can help to manage symptoms of wrist arthritis and improve the patient's quality of life. In many cases, non-surgical treatments may be all that is needed to manage the condition.

For most people, the sooner you seek treatment for wrist arthritis, the more effective it will be in managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. That's why at Circle Health Group, we encourage anyone experiencing symptoms of wrist arthritis to book a consultation with one of our specialists as soon as possible.

In cases where more conservative treatment options have not been effective, our specialists may recommend hand and wrist surgery to repair or replace the affected joint. Surgery options include:

Wrist arthroscopy

A surgical procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the joint to remove any damaged tissue. This procedure is performed using a small incision and can be used to remove bone spurs or other tissue that is causing pain or limiting movement.

Joint Fusion

A procedure in which the bones in the joint are fused together to prevent movement and reduce pain. This procedure is typically used when other treatments have not been successful and the joint has become severely damaged.

Joint replacement

A procedure in which the damaged joint is removed and replaced with an artificial joint. This operation is typically used when the joint has become severely damaged and is no longer functioning properly.

Remember that surgery is not suitable for everyone and it's important to discuss with our specialists to determine if wrist surgery is the right option for you.

At Circle Health Group, our specialists are experts in identifying and treating wrist arthritis. If you are experiencing symptoms of wrist arthritis, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. In this section, we will cover what you can expect during your initial consultation for wrist arthritis at Circle Health Group.

How we make a diagnosis

During your initial appointment, your consultant will take a detailed history of your symptoms, including when they started, what makes them worse or better, and any previous treatments you have tried. They will also perform a physical examination of the affected joint, looking for signs of inflammation, pain, or limited mobility.

Your first consultation is very important because it allows our specialists to get a complete understanding of your symptoms and the impact that the condition is having on your life. This information is essential in determining the best course of treatment for you.

Deciding whether you need tests or scans

Based on the information gathered during your consultation, our specialists may recommend additional tests or scans to help confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition. These may include X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasounds. These tests can also help to rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.

How do we decide what treatment is best for you?

Our specialists will take into account the results of your examination, any tests or scans that have been done, as well as your overall health and lifestyle when deciding what treatment is best for you. They will also consider your personal preferences and goals when it comes to treatment.

How will you know if you have wrist arthritis?

If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or limited mobility in the joint, and if physical examination, tests, or scans confirm arthritis, your specialist will diagnose you with wrist arthritis. Your specialist will also consider other potential causes of your symptoms, such as a fracture or a sprain, to make sure that the diagnosis is accurate.

We answer your frequently asked questions about arthritis in the wrist joint.

What does arthritis in the wrist feel like?

The symptoms of arthritis in the wrist can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

• Pain in the wrist, which can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain
• Stiffness in the wrist, which can make it difficult to move the joint
• Swelling or inflammation in the wrist
• Reduced range of motion in the wrist
• Weakness in the wrist or hand
• Cracking or popping sounds when moving the joint

How to tell if you have arthritis in your wrist?

If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or limited mobility in the wrist, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause of your symptoms. During your consultation, your specialist will take a detailed history of your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and may recommend additional tests or scans to confirm a diagnosis of arthritis and determine the severity of the condition.

How to treat arthritis in the wrist?

Treatment for arthritis in the wrist will depend on the cause, the severity of the condition, and the patient's symptoms. Treatment options may include:

• Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physiotherapy to improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles that support the joint
• Injections to reduce inflammation and pain
• An arthritis wrist support to reduce stress on the joint
• Occupational therapy to teach you how to adapt your daily activities to reduce stress on your wrist
• Wrist surgery (in cases where more conservative treatment options have not been effective)

How to cure arthritis in the wrist?

There is currently no cure for arthritis in the wrist, but treatment options can help to manage symptoms and significantly improve your quality of life. In some cases, non-surgical treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, and arthritis wrist support may be all that is needed to manage the condition. In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended.

How to prevent wrist arthritis?

There is no sure-fire way to prevent the development of wrist arthritis, but there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying active and doing regular exercise
• Using good posture and ergonomic techniques to reduce stress on the joints
• Avoiding repetitive motions that put stress on the wrist

When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:

• Flexible appointment times and locations to suit your routine
• The freedom to choose which hospital and consultant fits your needs
• Personalised, consultant-led treatment plans tailored to your specific requirements
• Comfortable and safe private facilities maintained by expert multidisciplinary teams
• Private cosy ensuite rooms as standard and delicious healthy meals
• Affordable, fixed-price packages with aftercare included
• Flexible payment options to help you spread the cost of your care

If you would like to learn more about treatment for wrist arthritis, book your appointment online today or call a member of our team directly on 0141 300 5009.

Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in February 2023. Next review due February 2026.

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2. Arthritis in Wrist, Cleveland Clinic
3. What Does Wrist Arthritis Feel Like?, Healthline
4. Osteoarthritis of the hand and wrist, Versus Arthritis
5. When Hand or Wrist Pain May Mean Arthritis, Arthritis Foundation
6. Wrist Arthritis, NIH
7. Wrist Arthritis, ASSH