Osteoarthritis in the hands is a condition that specifically damages the joints of the hands, which can cause pain, inflammation and limited mobility. As specialists in the field, we believe it is important to help understand what actions and movements to avoid; as well as mention what daily care to adopt to facilitate the performance of daily activities.
People with osteoarthritis should learn to protect their hands from the cold, use supports to reduce pressure on the joints, and perform gentle exercises to maintain mobility.
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding tobacco are also important steps to prevent osteoarthritis from getting worse.
The use of ergonomic tools, taking breaks during activities that require repetitive use of the hands, and maintaining proper posture when performing manual tasks are recommended.
Among the main strategies to reduce the discomfort associated with hand osteoarthritis, we can mention:
Physical therapy, splinting, and activity modification have been shown to be effective in reducing pain and improving hand function in people with osteoarthritis. However, it is important to note that each person and each case of osteoarthritis is unique, so the method of treatment and the effectiveness of the treatment is likely to vary depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual response.
Adaptations and/or modifications can be made to reduce the level of load on the hands.
Using ergonomic tools, installing handles and handles for easier gripping, modifying the height of furniture, using cookware with larger handles, and using gripping tools to open containers are often the most beneficial options.
