The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 25% of all adults in the United States suffer from arthritis. Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that affects many areas of the body. One of the most common locations for arthritis, however, is the hands. If you have hand arthritis, there are some things you can do to find relief.
Medications
Many medications have been developed to reduce the symptoms of arthritis and allow you to use your hands with less pain or no pain. The right medications can help reduce swelling as well as joint discomfort.
Some common arthritis medications include:
- Acetaminophen
- Corticosteroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immunosuppressive drugs
While medications cannot stop the progression of the disease, they can help manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, uses stem cells to promote your body’s natural healing process. These cells target the affected joints, reducing inflammation, pain, and aching. Stem cell therapy can also increase joint flexibility and help with the regeneration of new cartilage.
Management Strategies
Physical exercises for your hands can help you regain some mobility in your joints. You can also turn to hot and cold packs. Cold packs reduce swelling and pain, and hot packs protect against stiffness. You also need to consider regular rest periods since rest can help reduce swelling.
If you smoke, quitting can also help reduce the symptoms of arthritis, as can losing weight if you are overweight or have diabetes.
Arthritis Help Is Available
You do not have to suffer through painful hand arthritis when there are treatments available that do not rely only on surgical procedures. With management strategies like hand exercises, as well as with medication and emerging treatments like stem cell therapy, you can get the relief you need.
St. Petersburg, Florida
