Rheumatoid Arthritis
In the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis, joint problems are the most common symptoms. A general sense of being tired, or just not feeling quite right often happens before the slow start of joint pain and swelling. As the disease continues, symptoms may include swelling of different joints in the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees, and feet. This disease may result in pain and deformity, and occasionally affects other organs of the body, such as the heart, eyes, and lungs. Typically, in the hand, it involves the knuckles to a greater degree than the other joints.
MP Joint Arthritis
Fractures (or breaks) often take place in the hand or wrist. A fracture can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and loss of movement. Because of the close relationship of bones with soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons, and nerves, movement may be restricted because of injury to soft tissue. Fractures that involve joint surfaces may lead to early arthritis in those involved joints. Certain fractures, especially of the bones in the wrist may not result in severe symptoms. Any injury which results in prolonged symptoms (more than one to two weeks) should be evaluated.
Basal Joint Arthritis (Thumb Arthritis)
Arthritis is the disease that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints.
It often affects the joint at the base of the thumb, called the basal joint. Basal joint arthritis is most common in women over 40, but anyone can get it. The most common symptom is pain in the lower part of the thumb. You may feel pain when you lift something with the thumb and fingers, unscrew a jar lid, or turn a door handle or key. The joint may swell, and with time the thumb may become stiff or deformed.
Region Affected: Hand and Fingers
Links:
Basal Joint Arthritis - Orthohealth
Contact Dr. Balourdas at (619) 291-2430 to make an appointment for a consultation.
