Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Hands

Symptoms may involve the finger joints, knuckles, thumbs, wrists, or nearby tendons. You might notice [Hand Swelling](/symptoms/hand-swelling/), warmth, reduced range of motion, or difficulty fastening clothes. [Morning Joint Stiffness](/symptoms/morning-joint-stiffness/) can make the hands slow to loosen after waking. Persistent inflammation can affect alignment and strength, but hand symptoms vary widely and are not a reliable measure of the whole disease on their own.

Tell a clinician about changes in grip, dropping objects, altered finger shape, or numbness. A physical examination can separate joint inflammation from tendon or nerve problems and can guide treatment, splinting, or hand therapy.

Use both hands for heavier objects, keep loads close to your body, and choose tools with comfortable wide grips. Alternate demanding tasks with short pauses. Move fingers and wrists gently through an easy range, particularly after rest, unless a clinician has given different instructions. Avoid forcing a painful joint or testing strength during marked swelling.

Take prescribed rheumatoid arthritis medicines as directed. A treatment review may be needed if swelling persists or function is changing; do not alter medicines or use [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/) without professional advice.

Seek prompt assessment for a rapidly swollen or hot hand, severe pain after trauma, new loss of grip, numbness that persists, or a finger that changes colour. Fever with a hot swollen joint needs urgent attention. Sudden weakness in an arm or face, or new speech trouble, requires emergency help.

Ask which joints appear inflamed, whether hand therapy or a splint could protect function, and how to exercise without aggravating symptoms. Ask how to distinguish a flare from injury and when changes in [Joint Stiffness](/symptoms/joint-stiffness/) require a treatment review.