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The Best Therapy for Arthritis in the Fingers

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), at least one in five people has arthritis in one joint, making arthritis the leading cause of disability in the United States. When arthritis occurs in joints of the fingers, it makes simple daily activities painful and difficult to accomplish. With a number of therapies available to choose from, finding the best treatment option can be a challenge.

  1. Medication

    • Speak to your doctor about arthritis in your fingers. He will examine factors such as which joints are involved, how far the disease has progressed, whether your dominant hand is affected, your age and activity level. Your doctor may recommend medication, which can cut down on pain but does not reverse cartilage damage. He will likely recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which can range from over-the-counter varieties such as Tylenol to prescription-strength medications like Celebrex. Some doctors may also recommend dietary supplements glucosamine and chondroitin. According to the AAOS, glucosamine and chondroitin were first used to treat hip arthritis in dogs, but no studies have been done to test their effectiveness for arthritis of the fingers. However, some doctors will recommend glucosamine and chondroitin because they have proven to rebuild cartilage in other parts of the body. It is important to talk with your doctor before beginning any supplements, as they can interact with other medications. Glucosamine and chondroitin are not substitutes for other medication, but are often used as a complementary therapy.

    Injections and Splints

    • If medications are not effective, your doctor may try using an injection that combines steroids with an anesthetic. These injections can help quiet arthritis pain for as long as a few months. However, these treatments are not meant for the long term, as prolonged use can damage the skin, ligaments and tendons. If you receive an injection, the affected joints will likely be placed into a splint. Splints support the joints and are usually worn when fingers begin to ache. It is important not to wear the splint at all times as it can atrophy your muscles. Even if you haven't received an injection, splinting your finger can be helpful to take pressure off the joint. Talk to your doctor about how to make a proper splint.

    Surgery

    • Surgery is an option when all other therapies have not been effective. Your doctor will help you determine which procedure is best for you. If the damage is minimal, the surgeon will try to reconstruct or preserve your damaged joint or joints. Sometimes the damage proves so advanced that a replacement will be necessary. According to AAOS, most joint replacements are successful, yet long-term effects have yet to be studied. Joint fusion works by stopping pain, but you also lose the range of motion of your joint.

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