Millions of people who live with the pain and stiffness of arthritis in their hands get steroid or hyaluronic acid injections directly into their finger joints in the hopes of feeling better.
Now, a new review shows that even though these injections are widely recommended in treatment guidelines, they don’t really work.
Joint injections to relieve the symptoms of hand osteoarthritis were no better than dummy (placebo) injections, the study found.
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That’s not all current treatment recommendations for hand arthritis seem to get wrong, either. Most also call for topical pain relievers as the first-line therapy for hand osteoarthritis, but the evidence on those is iffy, according to study author Dr. Anna Døssing, a rheumatology resident at the Parker Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark.
So, what does relieve the pain of hand arthritis?
Dealing with arthritic hands can be challenging, but there are several ways to ease the pain and make your daily life more comfortable. In this article, we'll explore what works and what doesn't when it comes to managing arthritis-related discomfort in your hands. So, let's dive in and discover how to improve your quality of life!
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1. Warm Compresses
What works: Using warm compresses can help relieve stiffness and soothe the aching joints. Try soaking your hands in warm water for a few minutes or using a heated gel pack.
What doesn't: Avoid hot compresses, as they can potentially worsen inflammation.
RELATED: 6 Hand Exercises for Relief From Joint Pain
2. Regular Hand Exercises
What works: Gentle hand exercises can improve flexibility and reduce pain. Consult with a physical therapist to learn suitable exercises for your condition.
What doesn't: Don't overdo it or perform exercises that cause pain. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.
3. Pain-Relief Medications
What works: Over-the-counter or prescription medications can help manage pain and inflammation. Consult your doctor for guidance on the most suitable options.
“I consistently advocate for commencing treatment with the option that carries the lowest risk,” says Dr. Daniel Polatsch, co-director of The New York Hand and Wrist Center of Lenox Hill Hospital and an associate professor in the department of orthopedic surgery at Zucker School of Medicine/Northwell in New York City. “Short-term usage of oral NSAIDs or glucocorticoids is a reasonable approach.”
What doesn't: That said, long-term use of these medications can cause side effects. Prolonged use of NSAIDs has been linked to bleeding ulcers. Oral steroids, when taken for prolonged periods of time, can cause high blood pressure, weight gain, thinning skin and infections.
Avoid self-medicating or relying solely on painkillers without medical advice.
4. Splints and Braces
What works: Wearing splints or braces can provide support and stability for your arthritic hands, especially at night. Consult with an orthopedic specialist for the right fit.
What doesn't: Don't use splints excessively, as it may lead to muscle weakening.
5. Diet and Nutrition
What works: Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can help reduce inflammation. Consider consulting a nutritionist for guidance.
What doesn't: Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, which may contribute to inflammation.
RELATED: 11 Arthritis-Friendly Tools That Make Daily Life Easier
6. Ergonomic Tools
What works: Invest in ergonomic tools and gadgets designed to reduce strain on your hands. These can include specially designed kitchen utensils, pens, or keyboards.
What doesn't: Don't ignore the importance of proper ergonomics in your daily life.
7. Regular Rest and Pacing
What works: Taking breaks and pacing your activities can prevent overuse of your hands. Listen to your body's signals and rest when needed.
What doesn't: Avoid pushing yourself too hard, as it can lead to more pain.
8. Topical Treatments
What works: Topical treatments like creams and gels containing anti-inflammatory ingredients can offer localized relief. Discuss suitable options with your healthcare provider.
What doesn't: Don't rely solely on topical treatments when other approaches are necessary.
9. Stress Management
What works: Stress can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, so practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can be beneficial.
What doesn't: Don't underestimate the impact of stress on your pain levels.
10. Medical Consultation
What works: Always consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
“A hand surgery specialist … can thoroughly assess the full spectrum of alternatives, including medication, splinting, hand therapy, injections and, as a final resort, surgery,” Polatsch notes.
What doesn't: Don't delay seeking medical advice or self-diagnose your condition.
Living with arthritic hands can be more manageable with the right strategies. Remember, what works for one person may not work for another, so it's essential to find a combination of methods that suit your unique needs. By staying informed and working closely with medical professionals, you can improve your quality of life and find relief from arthritic hand pain.
