Dominik Rog, MD: Wrist & Hand Arthritis Treatment
May 1, 2025 | 3 min read
Hand or wrist arthritis is a common condition that affects many people as they age or as a result of injury. The most common type is osteoarthritis, also known as “wear and tear” or degenerative arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down and, over time, disappears, causing bone-on-bone arthritis.
Symptoms of Hand Arthritis
Arthritis in the hands typically affects the joint at the base of the thumb and the middle and top joints of the fingers. Common symptoms include:
- Pain during movement or after periods of rest
- Loss of range of motion (stiffness)
- Swelling around the joints
- Joint deformity or bumps (osteophytes)
- Reduced grip strength
Symptoms of Wrist Arthritis
Wrist arthritis most commonly develops after an injury or as part of an autoimmune or inflammatory condition. Symptoms include:
- Limited wrist motion
- Pain with activity
- Swelling on the top or thumb side of the wrist
The rubbing of “bone-on-bone” surfaces causes these symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many arthritis symptoms can be effectively managed without surgery. However, non-surgical options cannot cure arthritis or stop its progression.
Treatment options include:
- Topical and oral medications – NSAIDs such as Voltaren, ibuprofen, naproxen, and celecoxib; or Tylenol (acetaminophen)
- Supplements – Glucosamine with chondroitin and turmeric (curcumin); though clinical evidence is limited
- Corticosteroid injections – Synthetic cortisone injections to reduce inflammation
- Biologic injections – Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cells, although studies show limited effectiveness in the hands
- Braces or splints – To support the affected joint, reduce strain, and improve alignment
- Hand/occupational therapy – Dr. Rog emphasized this as a valuable tool for managing symptoms
Surgical Options
If non-surgical approaches are no longer practical, I may recommend surgical treatment, including:
- Joint fusion – Stabilizes severely damaged joints, trading flexibility for pain relief
- Joint replacement – Replaces damaged surfaces with artificial components
- Joint reconstruction – Customized procedures, such as for thumb arthritis or bone spur removal
Lecture Series Video: Relief for Hand and Wrist Arthritis
In this video, I talk about the latest non-surgical and surgical treatment options for hand or wrist arthritis sufferers. I am joined by occupational therapist Ann Brexa, OTR/L, who reviews joint protection principles and exercises that can help improve range of motion and function in the hand and wrist.
Learn About Your Options
If you are suffering from hand or wrist arthritis and are looking for relief, make an appointment with Dr. Dominik Rog, to talk about your options. Dr. Rog sees patients in Boulder and Louisville, CO.