Osteoarthritis in the hands

The following joints in the hands are particularly frequently affected by osteoarthritis:

1. the middle and end finger joints
2. the thumb saddle joint (rhizarthrosis)
3. the wrist, specifically the joint between the radius and scaphoid and between the radius and ulna

Wear and tear of the wrist is not as common as osteoarthritis of the thumb saddle joint. Osteoarthritis of the thumb saddle joint or rhizarthrosis is the most common wear and tear disease of the joints in the hand.

Symptoms

The first sign of wrist osteoarthritis is the painful restriction of mobility in the wrist. This first becomes noticeable when leaning on the hand. Movements on the ulnar or radial side can no longer be performed as easily as on the healthy side. Only in rare cases does the wrist swell. The symptoms only occur after heavy work and extreme movements. Despite the restriction of mobility, the overall function of the hand is only slightly impaired. People who suffer from wrist osteoarthritis are generally able to cope well with the symptoms. They avoid the painful movements and stabilize the joint by tensing the extensor and flexor muscles.