Dr. AJ Julka
Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist, Hand
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Are you experiencing pain, stiffness, or swelling in your wrist? You may be dealing with rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the small joints of the body, including the wrist joint.
In this article, we will explore what rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist is, how it affects the wrist, its symptoms and causes, the stages of the condition, and how it is diagnosed and treated.
If you suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis in your wrist or are seeking information about its causes and treatment for wrist pain, we encourage you to reach out to our specialists at JIS Orthopedics.
We are here to provide you with comprehensive care and treatment options at our locations in New Albany and St. Clairsville, Ohio. Don’t let wrist arthritis hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease and a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects the joints. When it affects the wrist, it is referred to as rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist. The wrist joint is a complex joint that consists of eight small carpal bones, and it plays a crucial role in the movement and stability of the hand and wrist.
Rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion. The inflammation in the wrist joint leads to joint damage over time, affecting its function and causing discomfort. If left untreated, it can result in deformities and disability, impacting daily activities.
If you have wrist rheumatoid arthritis, you may experience symptoms such as:
Rheumatoid arthritis can feel like other conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or psoriatic arthritis. Therefore, it is good to get a proper diagnosis of the type of wrist pain you are feeling.
The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist is still unknown, but it is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the joint, causing inflammation and damage to the joint structures.
Common risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis include family history, gender (it is more common in women), and smoking.
Rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist typically progresses through different stages. In the early stage, the joint may show signs of inflammation, such as swelling and warmth.
As the disease progresses, joint damage can occur, leading to bone erosion, deformities, and limited mobility. It is essential to diagnose and treat rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist early to prevent further joint damage.
To diagnose wrist rheumatoid arthritis, a comprehensive evaluation is required. Your healthcare provider will consider your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order specific tests. Blood tests, such as rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibody tests, can help in confirming the diagnosis.
Once diagnosed, treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, preserve joint function, and improve your overall quality of life. Treatment options may include:
It’s crucial to consult with a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. At JIS Orthopedics, our experienced orthopedic surgeons specialize in hand and wrist conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist.
Rheumatoid arthritis in the wrist is a chronic condition that can cause significant discomfort and affect the function of your hand and wrist.
If you suspect you may have rheumatoid arthritis in your wrist or are seeking information about its causes and treatment, we encourage you to reach out to our specialists at JIS Orthopedics. We are here to provide you with comprehensive care and treatment options at our locations in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH.
Don’t let wrist arthritis hold you back from enjoying life to the fullest. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Medically reviewed by AJ Julka, MD
If you’re suffering from finger pain, hand pain, wrist pain, or any upper extremity injuries, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
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