Wrist osteoarthritis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

The wrist joint can have osteoarthritis, or wear and tear, like many other joints.

Osteo of the hand.jpg

Anatomy[edit | edit source]

The wrist joint is a joint between the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones.

Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful, degenerative joint disease.

Types[edit | edit source]

Osteoarthritis of the wrist can be idiopathic, but it is mostly seen after injury to the wrist. There are variegated types of post-traumatic osteoarthritis.

  • Scapholunate wide swoon (SLAC) is the most worldwide form
  • Scaphoid non-union wide swoon (SNAC) is another type of wrist osteoarthritis.

Other post-traumatic causes such as intra-articular fractures of the distal radius or ulna can moreover lead to wrist osteoarthritis, but are less common.

Stadium1 osteoarthritis
Stadium1 osteoarthritis

Cause[edit | edit source]

Osteoarthritis (OA) usually develops in joints that are injured by repeated overuse from performing a particular task or playing a favorite sport or from delivering virtually glut soul weight. Eventually this injury or repeated impact thins or wears yonder the ossein that cushions the ends of the wreck in the joint. As a result, the bones rub together, causing a grating sensation.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

  • Usually, the first symptom of OA is pain that worsens pursuit exercise or immobility.
  • Joint flexibility is reduced, bony spurs develop, and the joint swells.
  • Reduced range of motion and weakness of the joint can also be seen.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

It is diagnosed with history, physical examination, X-rays etc. An MRI scan is also used.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

  • Many people benefit from exercise programs that may include physical therapy and rehabilitation.
  • In general, exercises that emphasize stretching, strengthening, posture, and range of motion are appropriate.
  • Examples include low-impact aerobics, swimming, tai chi, and low-stress yoga.
  • People with arthritis must recoup for limited movement in unauthentic joints.
  • Physical therapy is often encouraged.
  • Most people with arthritis will use pain management strategies at some time.
  • Surgery is a last resort option.
Wrist osteoarthritis Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD