This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is finger osteoarthritis?
Finger osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage in the finger joints wears down over time. This can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced hand function.
2. What are the common symptoms?
Symptoms include pain or tenderness in the finger joints, stiffness (especially in the morning), swelling, knobby or bony growths (Heberden’s or Bouchard’s nodes), reduced grip strength, and difficulty performing daily tasks like writing or buttoning clothes.
3. What causes finger OA?
Finger OA can result from aging, genetics, repetitive use of the hands, previous injury, or underlying conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Over time, cartilage loss and joint changes cause pain and reduced mobility.
4. How is finger OA diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, and sometimes X-rays to assess cartilage loss, joint space narrowing, and bony growths. Your GP may also check for other causes of joint pain.
5. How is finger OA treated?
Treatment focuses on symptom relief and maintaining hand function. Options include hand exercises, splints or supports, pain relief (paracetamol or NSAIDs if suitable), topical creams, and in severe cases, injections or surgery.
6. Can finger OA be cured?
There is no cure for finger OA, but symptoms can be managed effectively. Early intervention with exercises, lifestyle adjustments, and pain management can slow progression and maintain hand function.
7. How can exercises help finger OA?
Gentle hand and finger exercises improve mobility, strengthen muscles around the joints, reduce stiffness, and help maintain grip strength. A hand therapist can provide a tailored exercise program.
8. Can finger OA affect daily activities?
Yes. Pain and stiffness can make tasks like writing, cooking, opening jars, or buttoning clothes more difficult. Early management helps minimize disruption to daily life.
9. Are there lifestyle measures that help?
Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding excessive repetitive hand strain, using ergonomic tools, and applying warm or cold therapy can reduce pain and stiffness.
10. When should I see a GP for finger OA?
See your GP if you have persistent pain, swelling, reduced hand function, deformity, or difficulty performing daily activities. Early management can improve comfort and preserve hand function.
