Newly diagnosed with osteoarthritis in both hands and wrists

maria68

I have been told I have osteoarthritis in both hands and wrists it’s mild according to go but pain is chronic feels moderate to severe and have red blotches here and there can’t do anything without chronic pain it’s unbearable anyone else in the same boat I’ve only had X-rays should of had a scan as it shows up better thank you for any feedback

Trish9556

Hi @maria68

I had a Trapeziectomy in my left hand in 2020 and if you search on my name you'll find lots of advice on this subject. I currently have OA in my left hand where I had my trapeziectomy in 2020 but this is affecting a different part of that trio of bones. (See post from earlier today)

Keep your hands warm, I use fingerless gloves and hot hands, little packs of goodies that are air activated. They fit perfectly in your gloves and pockets and last about 12 hours.

Don't bother using creams on your hands because you're constantly washing them, unless you apply it at night with gloves on over the top.

Use your hands as much as you can and don't walk around with them in pockets. Using them will help.

Hand pain is horrendous, paracetamol may help, as will anti inflammatories IF you can take them. If you have Asthma or tummy problems then don't take them, don't even use the cream as the absorption is as bad as the pills if used regularly.

Please shout out and tag me if you need anything.

Love n hugs

Trish xx

claudsl

Hi @maria68 and welcome to our online community :)

Are you on any medication or are you waiting to see a Rheumatologist? Here is a link which might have some useful information on Osteoarthritis of the hands and wrists. Hopefully this helps a little.

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis-of-the-hand-and-wrist/

Claudia x

maria68

hi I am being referred to rhuemology I am taking codeine 60 mg every 4 hrs with paracetamol I also have it in both knees and both hips thank you for replying

claudsl

Hi @maria68

Have they given you any timeframe of how long the referral may take? It would be good to get sorted soon if you are in so much pain :(

Claudia x

maria68

hi I am waiting for my letter coming do you think it will be best if I have a scan to show up the condition better as a X-ray isn’t as good

maria68

thanks so much for the support to all who have replied to me means such a lot I am scared and overwhelmed

PJoanne

Hello @maria68

It's good to hear that you are on the referral pathway, I hope that comes through in a timely manner for you. When you get your appointment they will be able to advise and request further investigations, including a scan, if they need them.

Here is a link to the VA information about managing pain, its a longer read so grab a cup of tea!

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/managing-symptoms/managing-your-pain/

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/hand-and-wrist-pain/

Best Joanne

gmacd

Hi. I’m new to this group. Have recently been diagnosed with OA in both hands, knee and back.

PJoanne

Hello @gmacd , welcome to the forum.

I've found some general information about OA for you here:

https://www.versusarthritis.org/about-arthritis/conditions/osteoarthritis/

Best Joanne

pinkpanther

https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/63439/newly-diagnosed-with-osteoarthritis-in-both-hands-and-wrists

I have also recently diagnosed with OA in both hands and have seen an orthopedic surgeon. He scanned my hands because he said that X-ray alone does not show him what he needs to see. His advice to me is to have a thumb bone replacement. I have a follow up with him in November to discuss further. Meantime, I'm in agony and have had to stop taking Ibuprofen because of Asthma and paracetamol is not really working! I have never known pain like it. Wishing you well.