Yes, relief is possible for arthritic hands
DEAR DR. K: I have osteoarthritis of my hands. Are any treatments particularly effective for this condition?
DEAR READER: Here are some of the best ways to manage pain and improve function in your hands:
Splinting. The first line of action is to immobilize the painful joint with a splint. This gives the joint a chance to rest so the pain can subside. Adapt daily tasks. Spe - cialized products and assistive devices allow you to perform da i ly tasks without putting additional strain on your hands. For example, use an electric can opener or an electric toothbrush instead of manual versions.
Heat or cold therapy. Taking a warm bath or shower or soaking your hands in warm water can ease pain and stiffness. After exercise or exertion, cold therapy may work better. Place a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel on the painful joint, or use a freezer gel pack.
Exercise. Therapeutic exercises, especially range-of-motion exercises for the thumb and wrist, help keep hand joints working as well as possible.
(I’ve put examples of range-of-motion hand exercises on my website, AskDoctorK. com.) A hand physical therapist can recommend gentle, pain-free strengthening exercises once inflammation and pain have subsided.
Topical medications. These are creams, ointments or gels that are applied directly on the painful joint. One prescription gel, diclofenac (Voltaren), offers modest relief for hand arthritis. Other gels and creams are available over the counter and by prescription.
Oral medications. For more severe pain, drugs taken by mouth are typically more effective. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), relieve pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroid shots. For short- term relief, your doctor can inject corticosteroids directly into a joint to relieve pain and inflammation. Overuse of injections can increase damage within the joint.
Alternative therapies. These therapies include yoga, acupuncture and dietary supplements. Some people find that they work well, while others experience little or no benefit.