Each year in the United States, millions of people suffer from the effects of arthritis. Arthritis can occur in the body’s joints creating pain, inflammation and stiffness. In the wrists, arthritis can limit range of movement affecting the simplest daily activities. Knowing the warning signs will help in treating wrist arthritis.
Concerning Symptoms
Arthritis is actually a broad medical term; there are hundreds of different types that affect the human body. In the hands and wrists, the two main forms are usually osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Depending on medical history, the symptoms will vary with each individual. Treating wrist arthritis should be considered when these five warning signs are noticeable.
1. Pain
Pain is one of the most important factors when deciding to consult a specialist about wrist
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Noticeable Sounds and Sensations
When using hands and wrists in the simplest movements are accompanied by a sound or sensation of grinding, cracking or popping consulting a specialist should be done immediately. The damage has already begun to cause the cartilage to wear down.
4. Swelling of Joint
Painful swelling and inflammation may occur more frequently. If the area feels warm or tender, the damaged tissue surrounding the area may be irritated causing swelling. The swelling will limit the movement.
5. Weakness
The joint may cause weakness in the wrist area causing difficulty in everyday life. Picking up objects may be limited as the weakness continues. In some cases, the weakness may cause the individual to drop items.
When the warning signs or symptoms are present, consulting a specialist will help in treating wrist arthritis. Depending on the degree of injury, the doctor may suggest different non-surgical methods including bracing or immobilization of the wrist area, exercises, medications and steroid injections. When the methods do not ease the symptoms or the damage is too severe, surgery may be the next option in treating wrist