Arthritis : Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition that commonly affects the hands, particularly the joints at the base of the thumb (CMC joint), the fingers (DIP and PIP joints), and the wrist. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time due to overuse, leading to pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, swelling, and sometimes deformities. This can make everyday tasks such as opening jars, gripping objects, writing, or buttoning clothing challenging. 

Occupational therapy plays a vital role in managing hand osteoarthritis by focusing on pain relief, joint protection, and maintaining function. Interventions include customized splints, joint protection techniques, energy conservation strategies, adaptive equipment to reduce joint stress, and therapeutic exercises to maintain strength and range of motion. Heat or paraffin therapy may also be used to ease stiffness and pain symptoms. OT helps individuals with OA continue performing daily activities as independently and comfortably as possible.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes the body’s immune system to attack the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, swelling, and eventually joint damage. RA is often observed in the hands: affecting the small joints of the fingers and wrists symmetrically, resulting in stiffness (especially in the morning), reduced grip strength, joint deformities and significant functional limitations in everyday tasks. 

Occupational therapy is a key part of managing RA, particularly during both flare-ups and long-term care. OT interventions include splinting to support unstable joints and reduce pain, joint protection techniques to minimize stress on affected joints, energy conservation strategies to reduce fatigue, and assistive devices to make daily tasks easier.