Osteoarthritis of the hands is caused by long-term motion in the joints. A joint is any location where two bones meet and move back and forth adjacent to each other.

The joints are covered by cartilage and are housed inside a joint capsule, where synovial fluid lubricates the joints for smooth movements. As our bodies mature, the cartilage becomes thinner, wearing out the joints, which leads to arthritis slowly developing.

In a normal joint, cartilage does not contain nerve endings so movement is not painful. However, as the cartilage wears away, and the bone, which is rich with nerve endings, is exposed, movements become painful. This is where the term “bone on bone” arthritis comes from. This can lead to inflammation of the joints, and the patient generally report symptoms of pain and stiffness in the morning, that gradually worsens throughout the day.

Additionally, previous injuries to the joint such as a fracture or dislocation can cause arthritis to develop. Diagnosing osteoarthritis involves communicating with your doctor, that the joints are painful, x-rays may then be taken to confirm the diagnosis and determine severity. Although osteoarthritis is not reversible, because all moving parts will eventually wear out, therapy is integral to helping clients continue to perform activities of daily living or (ADL’s). Performing non-painful movements under the guidance of a hand therapist will allow for lubrication of the joints, which will help reduce symptoms because motion is lotion for the joints.

If you would like help reducing your pain then don’t hesitate to contact Health Plus Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Center in Edison, NJ for an appointment today.

Our location:
2114 Oak Tree Rd, Edison, NJ 08820
Phone: (732) 494-5999
Fax: (732) 494-5994
Email: info@healthpluspt.com

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