Arthritis of the hands

RWhale

RWhale

Hi

I have had stiff painful fingers for over a month , I wake up with the pain , it then sometimes eases but returns in the afternoon/ evening . I also have arthritis in my hips and spine . I am unable to see my GP as they are not seeing anybody right now due to staff sickness. Can any one advice on what I can do to help ease the stiffness and pain as its having an impact on my daily life . Thanks

Rachel

stickywicket

Hi Rachel,

I'x keep trying the GP but, in the meantime, ask your local pharmacist. They are very informed about the best pain relief for whatever circumstances. Be sure to tell him or her of any prescription or,over the counter meds plus any supplements you take. Good luck.

frogmorton

Good advice there form @stickywicket @RWhale

You can also try non-prescription home remedies like warm water soaks or a microwavable wheatbag or even ice wrapped in a teatowel if that helps you more (we are all different).

Best of luck

Toni xx

Moira

Hi,

I too have hand problems (among other arthritic joints - anyone got a skeleton in good order, 5' 3" hiding in a cupboard?). No longer able to play the guitar although uke is OK; had to give up my recorders and my piano is ..........!!!!

Toni's advice is good. There are hand exercises that I do that are very good. I use "hand putty" (plasticene or bluetak will work too). So, while I watch TV, I squash and squeeze. This was advice from my OT.

I got an appointment with a hand specialist but that was long in coming and had a steroid injection at the base of my right thumb. Now awaiting an op. I would also like steroid in my left but don't know when that will happen.

I was sent to a hand clinic and the Occupational Therapist was wonderful. I got targeted exercises and braces that I can use when necessary. Ask your GP when you get an appointment. A good physio will also advice. Ask a pharmacist which braces you will need as there are a wide choice.

Try the warm water trick and the plasticene. Keep moving you hands and look up on the internet if you can to get some more targeted hand exercises.

Good luck .

RWhale

Thank you everyone for the advice will give them a go

Weeyin

Finger & wrist supports may help, pharmacies have small stocks of these, although don't fit me as l have small hands. Your GP must refer you to your local hospital rheumatology dept. Ive had psoriatic arthritis for 25 years, diagnosed age 24 starting in wrists & hands. Early treatment is vital so you don't loose the use of joints. I was diagnosed early but still managed to loose full use of fingers like me.

Tell your GP they must see you or refer you to rheumatology or you will complain. Rheumatology can diagnose, offer tailor made splints, provide info & decide on the best medication/pain relief. Ive found rheumatology nurses & consultants in QEUH, Glasgow to be a god send. Im still working F/T thanks to them although suffer daily pain/stiffness. Avoid cold, damp or drafts as this can cause a flare. Good luck

furnace01

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/comment/698244#Comment_698244

ScaryMary

I found some gloves on the Internet which are open just below fingertips and a wrist strap. I find them good when my hands are painful a d support my wrist and thumb joint which is where I get most pain.