Why Am I Experiencing Hand Pain?
Hand pain can be very uncomfortable and interfere with a person’s quality of life. The hand is comprised of bones, muscles, sheaths, and tendons that enable movement. Hand pain can occur due to injury or inflammation in these areas. Arthritis is a disease that can cause joint inflammation in the hands. Surgical procedures like arthrodesis and arthroplasty can alleviate the hand pain that patients experience due to arthritis and other conditions.
How arthrodesis eases hand pain
Arthrodesis is a form of joint fusion surgery. Joint fusion is the process of conjoining two different bones together. Arthrodesis corrects a few different issues, like severe arthritis and bone fractures. When the cartilage between bones disintegrates due to arthritis, the bones start to rub together, causing friction and discomfort. During the arthrodesis procedure, physicians will make incisions in the hand to extract weakened bones and cartilage. Then, surgeons will use pins, rods, or screws to combine the bones. Doctors anchor down the screws or pins and close the incision.
The basics of arthroplasty
An arthroplasty is a medical procedure that repairs and replaces damaged bone and joint cartilage. The surgery requires doctors to cut out and replace deteriorated joints with a medical device called a prosthesis. These devices are made from plastic, ceramic, or metal parts. An arthroplasty is used for partial or total joint replacement. To combat hand pain, doctors perform this surgery on the wrists or fingers.
What is the difference between arthrodesis and arthroplasty?
There are key differences between arthrodesis and arthroplasty. Arthrodesis is a joint fusion surgeon that limits the joint’s mobility, meaning the joint is no longer bendable or flexible. When arthrodesis is performed on the hand or wrist, the person can have difficulty writing or typing. An arthroplasty replaces the damaged joint with a mechanical joint. The joints are pliable, and the person can still perform all the normal functions of the hand.
Exercises that help to ease arthritis
Arthritis is a chronic condition that can flare up at any time. Performing specific exercises can help relieve hand pain. Patients can also use these exercises after a surgical procedure like arthroplasty to help the hand adjust to the new joints.
1. Finger bend
Extend the hand outwards and hold the hand sideways with the palm exposed. Keep the fingers straight. Take each finger and bend the finger downwards towards the palm. Hold this position for 2 seconds and release. This can be repeated up to 5 times per finger.
2. Grip strengthener
Take a small round object like a hand exercise ball or a fruit like a lime. Squeeze the object for 5 seconds, and then let go. Repeat this exercise a few times for each hand.
3. Thumb stabilization
Hold the hand and fingers straight while pointing upwards. Keep the fingers together while gently bending the fingers into a C-shape. The movement should look like someone holding a bottle. Release the fingers back into the starting position. The exercise can be repeated at least 5 times per hand.
Talk to a professional
People with arthritis issues should consult a medical professional. Exercises are a great starting point combined with the help of an expert on arthritis and procedures like arthroplasty and arthrodesis. A physician will examine a patient to determine the severity of arthritis and the need for any medical interventions.
