Osteoarthritis: The sign that appears in your hand

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 9.6% of men and 18.0% of women over 60 years have symptomatic osteoarthritis worldwide. It is said to be the most common form of arthritis, which mostly affects the hands, hips and knees. While the condition can be managed, it cannot be reversed, says the Mayo Clinic. However, to start treatment, one needs to be sure of the condition and know about its causes and symptoms.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease or “wear and tear” arthritis, occurs when the cartilage within the joint that cushions the ends of the bones begins to wear down over time. The changes often occur slowly and gradually over time. According to the Mayo Clinic, it most commonly affects the joints in the hands, knees, hips and spine.

The sign in your hand to watch out for

CreakyJoints shares that osteoarthritis can lead to stiffness "particularly in the morning". It explains,"Osteoarthritis can cause pain, stiffness (particularly in the morning), swelling, and tenderness of the joints in the hands."The charity says that hand pain associated with osteoarthritis can sometimes indicate Dupuytren’s contracture, a painless condition that causes one or more fingers to bend toward the palm of the hand.Furthermore, the condition can make extra bones to develop in the joints, also called osteophytes.

Other symptoms of osteoarthritis

Symptoms of osteoarthritis can develop slowly and worsen over time. While pain in the affected joints can be one of the most common symptoms, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, grating sensation, bone spurs and swelling can also be signs of osteoarthritis, according to the Mayo Clinic.

How to ease the pain

For those who suffer from osteoarthritis, hand exercises can help relieve pain. The CreakyJoints recommends making a fist, which could help maintain mobility of the joints. "Start with your fingers straight and then slowly bend your hand into a fist," the charity shares."Make sure your thumb is on the outside of your hand. Don’t squeeze too tightly, then straighten again," it adds. You can also try 'finger lifts.' All you need to do is position your palm "flat on a table"."Lift each one slowly off the table, then back down before raising the next".

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