Medical Guides

The number of arthritis sufferers in the world today is very much bloated. Most of us might just know someone who is suffering from arthritis. Many people have gotten better already while others are not so lucky at all. In general, wrist arthritis is one of the worst kinds of disease to ever befall the human race. Why? It is because of the mere fact that it impairs the freedom of movement. It is like being chained by an invisible shackle, a shackle that is painful both physically and mentally.

Having this kind of arthritis does not mean the end of the world. There are ways we can treat this disease. So that we may better know our enemy, let us look at this type of arthritis. The condition happens when the joints on your wrists no longer prevent the bones from touching and rubbing one another. When two bones grind, stiffness and swelling affects the wrist. Destruction may be due to wear and tear or due to direct attack on the cartilage itself.
There are actually two types – rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the there is inflammation on the joints caused by the immune system of the host attacking the cartilage. Significant inflammation of the bones may result in another disease called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens when the median nerve, which connects the fingertips to the brain, is pinched. This is accompanied by pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling. Osteoarthritis on the other hand, refers to the disintegration of the cartilage due to trauma. As a result, the bones no longer have the cartilage to cover them, and when they rub together, pain and swelling hits the affected wrist.

Treatment options for the condition vary. Medication and physical therapy is encouraged but the last option to consider is surgery. The purpose of wrist surgery is to relieve pain in the wrist but there is a huge drawback. The mobility of the wrist will forever be affected because surgery requires the removal of the arthritic bones and some joints.

People affected by wrist arthritis should be aware that surgery is the last option. Do not be afraid to ask your doctor what treatment options are available for you. Some would involve the use of a splint to immobilize the wrist or the intake of genetically-engineered drugs. Explore all options. After all, your freedom is in your wrists.