Osteoarthritis of The Hands

Osteoarthritis of the hands is caused by long-term use and motion in the joints. A joint is any area where two bones meet and move against each other.

Joints are covered with cartilage and enclosed in a joint capsule, where synovial fluid lubricates them for smooth movement. As we age, the cartilage naturally thins, leading to wear and tear in the joints. Over time, this can result in osteoarthritis.

In a healthy joint, cartilage has no nerve endings, so movement is painless. However, as cartilage wears away, the underlying bone—rich in nerve endings—is exposed. This “bone on bone” contact causes pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Many patients notice symptoms such as:

– Pain during movement

– Morning stiffness that worsens throughout the day

– Swelling or tenderness in the joints

– Lubricate the joints

– Reduce pain and stiffness

– Preserve mobility and function

As the saying goes, “motion is lotion for the joints.” Regular, guided movement helps keep your hands functional and reduces the impact of osteoarthritis on your daily life.

In Summary