Osteoarthritis in the wrist and arms
Degenerative osteoarthritis is one of the most common disorders found in the old age. It is characterized by the breakdown and loss of cartilage present in the joints. Many joints that are frequently used are affected by this disorder. Wrist and arms are also susceptible to the osteoarthritis.
The hand and wrist have small multiple joints. They work together and produce motion. When these joints are affected by osteoarthritis, the daily activities become difficult. There is a degeneration of cartilage which acts as a shock-absorber. It provides a smooth slippery surface for the joints. When the cartilage is lost, the body tries to make-up for the lost cartilage by producing the fluid in the joint lining. It leads to swelling and restricted mobility of the joint.
It is generally related to aging. It affects the men and women above the age of 40. Injury, especially fractures, is one of the reasons of arthritis. Due to trauma, the cartilage gets damaged. The injured joint is more susceptible to osteoarthritis.
Joint pain after the physical activity is the most common symptom. The patient complains pain and stiffness in the morning. After total loss of the cartilage, the symptoms are seen even after less use of the joints. In advanced condition, the pain becomes so severe that the patient can’t sleep peacefully.
When the damaged joint is subjected to excessive stress, it gets swollen. Many patients complain the increased joint pain during the rainy weather. Simple activities like starting a car or opening a jar becomes difficult for the person. The affected joint is warm in touch due to body’s inflammatory response. There is a sensation of grinding or grating in the joints due to rubbing of the bones on each other.
The symptoms and physical examination by the doctor my help for the diagnosis of the osteoarthritis upto some extent. The clinical appearance of the hand and wrist also helps in diagnosis. The x-ray report of hand and wrist is the most useful guide for the diagnosis. It shows certain characteristics like development of dense areas of the bone along the joint margins, formation of bony spurs and narrowing of the joints.
The treatment is given to get relief from the pain and to restore the normal function. Anti-inflammatory drugs and analgesic medication are beneficial for the treatment. Finger or wrist splints are also advised for selective activities. In more serious cases, the surgery is recommended.
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August 23, 2011 
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