Managing Annoying Wrist Pain
For arthritis sufferers, hand pain can be a constant and irritating presence. And in some cases, being diagnosed with the condition can increase a person’s chances of developing other degenerative diseases like carpal tunnel. Depending on the severity of a person’s arthritis, non-invasive interventions may be possible to slow or stop the spread of damage. In particular, exercise can be incredibly effective at staving off the effects of the condition. However, knowing when to seek medical interventions versus at-home treatments is important.
Hand clench exercises
For many people, arthritis comes with age and can lead to joint inflammation that reduces mobility and function in various joints, including the hands and wrists. While any reduction of movement is frustrating, the disease’s obvious impact on the hands may be the biggest frustration for sufferers. To preserve hand function, arthritis sufferers are encouraged to try the hand clench exercise, which has been proven to minimize discomfort while protecting flexibility. People should hold the hand perpendicular to surfaces while holding fingers straight. Slowly bend the hand to make a fist while keeping the thumb extended. Ideally, hold the position for a few seconds before slowly releasing. For best results, aim for roughly 10 reps a day.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy might not seem like an obvious requirement for arthritis. However, working with a licensed practitioner can help affected individuals preserve function and even regain mobility. Likewise, if poor body mechanics are also contributing to pain, a physical therapist can offer best practices and guidance to control discomfort and prevent additional damage.
Engage in low-impact exercise
Arthritis doesn’t have to slow people down. People with the diagnosis may be surprised to hear physicians and experts encourage activity. Low-impact exercises are ideal for sustaining joint function. Great options include gentle activities like swimming, which don’t place unnecessary pressure on the joint while still preserving mobility and flexibility.
When exercise isn’t enough
While exercise can be an effective solution for many arthritis sufferers, other individuals may need medical interventions. Beyond physical therapy, some people may benefit from injections which work to ease discomfort in the wrist. Although physicians may limit the number of times the treatment can be administered in a year, many individuals report positive results afterward.
When to consider surgery
Sometimes, even when a person attempts all of the preventative actions, joint function in the hand is reduced so greatly that surgery really is the only option. Depending on the cause, a few solutions might be employed. A wrist arthroscopy may be recommended for people struggling with arthritis-related carpal tunnel. The procedure works to open the carpal tunnel channel that surrounds the median nerve, thereby reducing pressure placed on the nerve and improving wrist and hand function.