Arthritis of the wrist or hand

Arthritis is a collective name, describing various types of disorders. The most common disorders seen in the wrist are osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. An infection, gout, or pseudogout can also cause arthritis. Wrist arthritis is usually osteoarthritis, indicating worn cartilage in the wrist joint.

The primary complaint with wrist osteoarthritis is pain and the resulting movement restrictions. Swelling may or may not be present.

Cause

Osteoarthritis of the wrist is a common disorder, especially on the side of the wrist near the thumb. Chronic ligament injuries or old fractures of a carpal bone can contribute to early onset of osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis and various forms of gout can also cause arthritis in the wrist.

Diagnosis

Physical examination suggests osteoarthritis of the wrist, which is confirmed by x-ray. Some characteristics of osteoarthritis visible on X-rays are narrowing of the space between the bones, development of bony deformities (osteophytes), and a change in bone density (sclerosis).