Arthritis

Arthritis – or the inflammation of one or more of your joints – can occur in many areas of the hand and wrist and can have more than one cause. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but there are more than 100 types overall. That is why proper diagnosis is really crucial, say our orthopedic specialists in Boca Raton.

Healthy joints move easily because of a smooth tissue called articular cartilage. It covers the ends of bones and provides a smooth gliding surface for the joint, which is lubricated by something called synovial fluid, which looks and feels like oil.

Over time, cartilage wears away, which may cause a form of arthritis called osteoarthritis, generally occurring in older people. The other common form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic disease that causes the joint lining (synovium) to swell, creating pain and stiffness in the joint. This can happen at any age.

Early symptoms of arthritis of the hand include dull joint pain or a burning sensation. It may not occur immediately; however, in advanced stages of the disease, it can even wake you up at night. Many people with arthritis complain of increased joint pain with rainy weather. Activities that once were easy, such as opening a jar or typing, become difficult due to pain.

However, arthritis does not have to result in a painful or sedentary life. It is important to seek help early so that treatment can begin. Depending on your age, lifestyle, level of activity, how far the arthritis has progressed and how many joints are involved, doctors may prescribe medication, injections, splinting or surgery.

While you cannot guarantee the prevention of arthritis, you can reduce the risk and delay the potential development of the disease now by changing your lifestyle. Our orthopedic and sports medicine specialists in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton advise working on your mobility to keep your joints strong, giving up smoking as it increases the chances of rheumatoid arthritis dramatically, and maintaining a healthy weight by adopting a balanced diet and exercising.