Top 6 Solutions for Arthritis in Hands and Fingers

It’s not uncommon for arthritis to leave your hands and fingers stiff and sore. Sometimes joints will become red and inflamed, making it difficult to pursue your normal activities.

Here are six suggestions that may help arthritis sufferers find some relief for their painful hands and fingers:

1. According to Healthline.com, a variety of exercises can help keep joints in your hands and fingers flexible, improve range of motion, and help with arthritis pain.  

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2. Dr. William Shiel Jr. at MedicineNet says supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown in studies to help joint pain and stiffness. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons cautioned that the supplements are not approved for the treatment of hand and wrist arthritis.

3. Dr. Shiel says losing weight can be helpful in taking care of joints, particularly knees, and relieving some of the pressure on them.

4. Dipping your hands in warm wax or warm water soaks can help painful joints feel better. "The wax can often be obtained at local pharmacies or medical supplies stores. It can be prepared (melted) and kept in a crock pot (electric cooker)," says Dr. Shiel. "The hot wax hardens on the hands and thereby provides a warm covering over the hands."

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5. WebMD says finger or wrist splints can sometimes help to minimize motion and allow a painful or inflamed joint time to heal. Some people wear them at night or only during certain activities.

6. Medications can be used to treat symptoms in hands and fingers, but The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says they will not "restore cartilage or reverse joint damage." Typically, arthritis patients are given anti-inflammatories, which "stop the body from producing chemicals that cause joint swelling and pain."
 
This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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