Related articles: Arthrosis of the Hands
Definition
Arthrosis of the hands is a chronic disease, characterized by the progressive degeneration of the articular cartilages. As a result, wear results in a gradual impairment of movement and a deformation of the structure of the joints involved.
Genetic predisposition and aging are among the factors that favor the appearance of osteoarthritis of the hands.
The origin of this process can also be attributed to traumatic events, fractures, excessive stresses and continuous use of some joints (for example, for carrying out certain work and sporting activities), infections and rheumatoid arthritis.
The arthrosic involvement of the hands can also derive from primitive cartilaginous defects and from endocrine-metabolic diseases (such as hemochromatosis, diabetes and gout).
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Hand and wrist pain
- Articolar pains
- Muscle pains
- Tingling in the right hand
- Tingling in the hands
- Joint swelling
- Nodule
- Paresthesia
- Joint stiffness
- Articular noises
Further indications
Arthrosis of the hands is a progressive disease: initially it may be asymptomatic, but, over time, it tends to increase its severity causing various disorders.
The main symptom is pain in the fingers and hands, which occurs most intensely after waking up and when the limb is subjected to excessive strain. In the most serious cases, this manifestation is also present at rest.
The pathological process can also lead to swelling, reduced mobility and joint noises.
As the disease progresses, arthrosis of the hands causes the appearance of nodules of hard-elastic consistency at the level of the proximal interphalangeal joint (Bouchard's nodules) or at the distal end of the fingers (Heberden's nodules). These nodular lesions can cause deviation of the involved fingers, causing deformities and frequent inflammatory phenomena.
Arthrosis of the hands can also lead to local redness, stiffness or numbness in the joints of the fingers and the base of the thumb.
The diagnosis is established through a medical examination and confirmed by radiological investigations, which highlight a reduction in joint space, due to the disappearance of cartilage tissue.
The treatment of arthrosis of the hands is symptomatic and involves the maintenance of the affected hand at rest, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and the administration of corticosteroids by infiltration. In some cases, recourse to instrumental physical therapy (ultrasound, iontophoresis, etc.) is useful. The indication for surgical treatment is rare.
