Arthritis, or degenerative joint disease, is a condition that involves the wear and tear breakdown of cartilage over time. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the wrist. Those with wrist arthritis usually perform more repetitive types of motions or repeatedly bend and extend the wrist, such as with typing or guitar playing. Arthritis symptoms in the wrist are usually treated conservatively, but surgery may be required in severe cases.
Wrist Pain
Wrist pain is a common associated symptom of wrist arthritis, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine. This occurs because cartilage in the wrist may be worn down, which will allow bones in the wrist to rub together and form bone spurs, or humps of bone. Bone spurs can irritate surrounding nerves or become inflamed, which results in wrist pain. Wrist pain is treated with conservative measures, such as rest, ice and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. A doctor may run other tests to rule out autoimmune forms of arthritis that may affect the wrist, states MedlinePlus.
Wrist Swelling
Wrist arthritis may cause the wrist to swell, states MedlinePlus. Swelling occurs because irritated bones release chemical signals that cause fluid to move to the area of inflammation. Swelling tends to worsen after repetitive wrist movement and usually improves with rest. Additionally, ice, NSAIDs and wrist elevation are effective in reducing wrist swelling. Depending on the severity, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection. Corticosteroids are strong anti-inflammatory medications that are used to reduce severe inflammation. Only three injections are allowed per year because corticosteroids can cause thinning of the bones, states MedlinePlus.
Limited Movement
Wrist motion may be limited with wrist arthritis, according to MedlinePlus. Specifically, limitations can occur with bending and extending of the wrsits. This occurs because bone spurs can grow into the wrist joint, which will limit wrist movement. Reducing swelling and pain in the wrist may help increase range of motion. Physical therapy may be beneficial in improving wrist mobility, because a physical therapist can stretch the wrist and teach you exercises to improve flexibility. A home exercise program of wrist exercises can further improve range of motion and prevent future episodes of stiffness.
