Hand osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative condition involving one or more joints of the thumb and fingers.
Sufferers experience pain, reduced grip strength and joint stiffness leading to difficulty with daily activities. Most common in Caucasian women over 55, other risk factors include obesity, joint laxity, family history, previous hand injury and occupational or recreational use. Over time, cartilage between the joints thins and new bone grows causes thickening of joints and increases problems in moving the fingers and thumb. Research shows longterm use of a night splint improves pain, hand function, strength, and range of movement for individuals with hand OA. Compressive hand supports can be worn during the day at mes the support is needed. At other times the hand needs to move to keep the muscles activated and strong.
For advice about how to protect the joints, how home exercises are effective at improving grip strength and hand function and gentle, manual treatment of osteoarthritis, contact Kirsty on 01509 812119 or kirsty@angelyardosteopaths.com.
