Serving idaho From Boise

Arthritis of the Hand, Wrist,
& Elbow Treatment in Boise

Arthritis is a common condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. In the hands and wrists, arthritis can interfere with everything from buttoning clothes to gripping tools. At Idaho Hand Center, our specialists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for two of the most common forms, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, helping you reduce pain and maintain function.

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What Is Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. It develops when the protective cartilage cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time, leading to bone-on-bone friction. In the hands, this often affects the joints at the thumb's base, the fingers' middle joints, and the end joints closest to the nails.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints (synovium). This causes painful swelling, which can eventually lead to joint deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect joints symmetrically, meaning the same joints on both hands may be involved.

Common symptoms of both types include:

Joint pain and tenderness
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
Swelling or warmth around the joints
Reduced grip strength and difficulty with fine motor tasks
In advanced cases, visible joint changes or deformities

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How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

At Idaho Hand Center, we start with a thorough medical history and physical examination to understand your symptoms, their progression, and how they affect your daily life. Diagnostic testing may include:

X-rays to detect joint damage, bone spurs, or loss of cartilage space
Ultrasound or MRI to assess soft tissue changes and early inflammation
Blood tests to check for markers of rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions

A precise diagnosis ensures your treatment plan addresses the type of arthritis you have and its severity.

What Are the Treatment Options for Arthritis?

We aim to manage pain, preserve mobility, and slow disease progression. Depending on the type and stage of arthritis, your treatment may include:

Activity modification to reduce stress on affected joints
Splints or braces to support and protect the joints
Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
Hand therapy to maintain strength and flexibility
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) for rheumatoid arthritis to slow joint damage

If conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgical options such as joint fusion or joint replacement may be recommended to restore function and reduce pain.

When Should You See a Hand Specialist?

If you have persistent hand or wrist pain, stiffness, or swelling that limits your ability to perform everyday tasks, early evaluation can help prevent further joint damage. Prompt treatment is especially important for rheumatoid arthritis, where early intervention can significantly slow disease progression.

Get Expert Arthritis Care at Idaho Hand Center

At Idaho Hand Center, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized treatment plans to help patients effectively manage osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.