What are the treatment options for hand osteoarthritis?

Hand osteoarthritis affects the smooth joint surfaces and surrounding tissues in the fingers, thumb or wrist. Treatment is guided by which joints hurt, stiffness, grip difficulty, swelling and how symptoms affect work or daily tasks. A clinical examination helps distinguish osteoarthritis from inflammatory or tendon conditions.

The aim is to reduce irritation, preserve useful movement and make tasks easier. A flare may need short-term load reduction, while ongoing care usually focuses on maintaining strength and joint control.

Hand Therapy can teach joint-protection methods, tailored exercises, splint use and ways to adapt gripping or pinching. Anti-Inflammatory Medication may help some people, but the choice depends on stomach, kidney, heart and other health factors; use it only as directed.

A Cortisone Injection may be considered when a particular joint remains painful despite simpler measures. It can reduce local inflammation but does not rebuild worn cartilage. If pain and deformity continue to limit function, a specialist may discuss Joint Fusion Surgery for a selected joint. Surgery is planned around the joint involved and the movement or stability you need.

Book an assessment for persistent pain, increasing stiffness, repeated swelling, loss of grip or a finger that is becoming difficult to straighten. Seek prompt care after an injury if the finger is visibly deformed, numb, unusually pale or impossible to move. Sudden warmth and marked swelling may need assessment for causes other than osteoarthritis.

Ask which joint is responsible for the symptoms, whether a splint or Hand Therapy would help, which medicines are safe with your health history, when an injection is reasonable, and how Joint Fusion Surgery would affect movement and grip.