Finger Arthritis
What is Finger Arthritis?
The bones in your hand are called metacarpals. The finger bones are called phalanges. The metacarpophalangeal joint (MCP joint), or knuckle, is where the finger bones meet the hand bones. At the MCP joint, the fingers and thumb can move in multiple directions. They can bend, and spread apart and are important for pinching and gripping.
Arthritis means joint inflammation and is often used to describe pain or problem at the joint. Cartilage is the layer of tissue on the end of the bone. The loss of this tissue results in arthritis.
Basal Thumb Arthritis is a painful condition that affects many individuals.
Changes may come on gradually or be noticed right away. Symptoms include pain when gripping or grasping, weak hands, and dropping objects more frequently. Over time, the fingers may shift toward the pinky.
How is it Diagnosed?
Diagnoses is often confirmed by x-rays. The x-rays show narrowing of the space between the bones, which is a sign that cartilage has been lost.
Treatments vary based on the severity of your arthritis and the affected joint. Oral medication may help relive pain. Sometimes injections into the joint can help. Other options include topical creams, heat or ice, splints, buddy supports or strapping two fingers together. The goal of these conservative therapies are to stave off surgery. If possible indefinitely.
What is the Conservative Treatment for Finger Arthritis?
Surgeries for finger arthritis will vary depending on the affected joint. In the “knuckles” we can offer a joint replacement or a joint fusion. In the basal joint, or the base of the thumb to be more specific we can fuse the joint (seldom done), we can remove one of the arthritic bones (standard). In office we encourage you to inquire about emerging techniques.