Understanding Wrist Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

By Anna Lee, D.C., M.S.

Photo Credits: Unsplash

Significance of the Wrist in Daily Life

The wrist is pivotal for performing everyday chores, highlighting the importance of the wrist joint. Arthritis in the wrist, with various causes, can hinder daily activities due to pain and deformity. Intense pain or progressive deformity may necessitate medical intervention.

Osteoarthritis and Its Impact

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), affects joints as we age. This condition involves the gradual degeneration of the joint over many years. Affecting over 20 million people in the United States alone, degenerative arthritis is the most common type. The wrist joint can be particularly susceptible, and repetitive motion or high mechanical stress can prompt earlier onset.

Degeneration Process

The degeneration begins in the joint cartilage, which cushions and lines the joint. Erosion leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, and a reduction in mobility. Eventually, bones may rub together and form spurs, visible on radiographic images. This degeneration can result in bone thickening and misalignment of the wrist, causing tenderness and swelling.

Contributory Risk Factors

Family history and occupational stress are significant factors in developing arthritis. Joint injuries, such as sprains or fractures, can also pose risks, potentially altering joint biomechanics and leading to abnormal force on the cartilage. This process resembles a misaligned machine wearing out more rapidly.

Symptoms and Complications

Arthritis primarily causes pain, which initially occurs at the onset of activities but worsens after rest. As the condition progresses, pain may persist even during rest. Inflamed joints may appear enlarged and warm, and wrist problems could extend to peripheral tendons, causing tendonitis.

Symptoms of Arthritis:

• Pain
• Stiffness
• Weakness
• Swelling
• Limited Range of Motion
• Joint Enlargement or Deformity
• Clicking, Cracking, or Grinding Sounds

Conservative and Surgical Treatments

Conservative treatments should begin when pain first occurs and may involve over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. Limiting repetitive hand movements, using heat/ice, or applying topical pain relievers can alleviate symptoms. Wrist braces or splints provide support, reducing pain and preventing deformity progression.

Rehabilitation therapy plays a crucial role, focusing on symptom control and wrist health. Physicians may recommend exercise programs and tips for minimizing strain during tasks.

Conservative Treatment Options:

• Anti-inflammatory Medications
• Reducing Repetitive Movements
• Therapy (Chiropractic, Physical, Occupational)
• Wrist Brace or Splint
• Exercises
• Cortisone Injection for Temporary Relief

In severe cases, if conservative treatments fail, surgery may be the only viable option. Consultation with a physician is advised to determine the appropriate treatment path.

Conclusion

Understanding wrist arthritis is essential for managing its impact on daily life. Early intervention and a range of treatment options provide avenues to alleviate symptoms and maintain wrist health.

Anna Lee, D.C., M.S.
Board Certified Chiropractic Physician

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