Which specialist treats hand osteoarthritis?

Hand osteoarthritis affects the smooth joint surfaces and can cause aching, stiffness, swelling or reduced grip. The specialist examines which finger or thumb joints are involved, tests movement and strength, and may request X-rays. A rheumatologist may be involved when the pattern suggests an inflammatory joint condition rather than wear-related arthritis.

Start with an assessment if stiffness or pain is affecting dressing, typing or household tasks. Depending on the joint and your health, care may include activity changes, splinting, [Hand Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/hand-therapy/), or [Anti-Inflammatory Medication](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/anti-inflammatory-medication/). A [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/) or [Joint Fusion Surgery](/treatments/reconstructive-orthopedic-surgery/joint-fusion-surgery/) may be discussed for selected problems.

Seek urgent assessment after a significant injury, sudden deformity, a hot swollen joint with fever, or new loss of sensation or circulation. Make a routine appointment for persistent [Finger Stiffness](/symptoms/finger-stiffness/), [Weak Grip](/symptoms/weak-grip/) or [Wrist Pain](/symptoms/wrist-pain/) that limits ordinary tasks.

Ask which joints are affected, whether imaging can clarify the diagnosis, and how to protect movement while reducing pain. Discuss hand-therapy goals, medication precautions, injection expectations and the functional trade-offs of any operation.