Ways to Relieve Hand Pain Due to Arthritis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, arthritis affects approximately 46 million individuals in the U.S. Due to the numerous small bones and joints in the hands, they are one of the most common places for arthritis to occur. Arthritis causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, and treating these symptoms often involves a combination or professional therapy and home remedies or exercises. Individuals suffering with hand arthritis should see a doctor to determine how far the condition has progressed and the best methods for pain relief.

Hot and Cold Treatments

• Get temporary relief from arthritis with hot or cold packs. Heated packs applied directly to the painful joints offer warming relief and loosen stiffness. Alternatively, a warm shower or bath before bed will offer the same relief and may promote a better night's sleep. Many individuals who suffer with arthritis in their hands find that their joints become warm and painful at times. Applying an ice pack for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day can offer soothing relief instantly.

Diet Considerations

• Opt for a low-fat diet. Not only can extra weight make arthritis worse, but diets high in saturated fats may actually increase swelling and inflammation in some people. Increasing vitamin C may help slow arthritis progression and reduce symptoms. Some individuals have food allergies or sensitivities that make arthritis in the hands worse. Speak with a doctor about possible food triggers if you notice increased symptoms after eating particular foods.

Herbal Remedies

• Consider ginger supplements for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Turmeric has been used in China and the Far East as a treatment for arthritis inflammation, stiffness and pain for centuries. Fish oil, which contains omega-3 acids, reduces swelling and joint stiffness. Like fish oil, flaxseed contains omega-3 acids to help reduce arthritis symptoms. Flaxseed is also an excellent source of fiber. Herbal supplements should be taken under the supervision of a doctor, because some herbs may interfere with certain medications.

Medications

• Ask your doctor about over-the-counter medications to help with hand pain due to arthritis. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen offer temporary relief for pain. Ibuprofen is also an anti-inflammatory medication, which helps with swelling. Mentholated sports creams offer soothing short-term relief from pain and stiffness. For severe arthritis pain in the hands, prescription-strength corticosteroids may be recommended.

Physical Therapy

• Sign up for physical therapy sessions to learn new ways to do everyday tasks while minimizing hand pain. Therapy also involves strengthening and stretching routines for greater range of motion and to minimize stiffness. Physical therapy may also include hand massages done by licensed professionals to relieve aching joints.

Home Exercises

• Try a few Mayo Clinic hand exercises at home to help with arthritis. Slowly and gently make a fist then extend the fingers as far as possible and repeat as comfort permits. Another exercise involves spreading the fingers wide and touching the thumb to each fingertip on the same hand slowly and in succession. These exercises should not be performed if they cause severe discomfort, but doing them daily often improves pain and stiffness.