What is hand arthritis?
Hand arthritis affects the small joints of the fingers, thumbs and wrists. Osteoarthritis typically causes bony bumps and thumb-base pain; rheumatoid usually causes symmetrical knuckle swelling. Splints, hand exercises and topical NSAID gels help most people.
Last updated 2026-07-01. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of hand arthritis?
Early signs include stiffness in the fingers in the morning, a dull ache at the base of the thumb when opening jars or turning keys, and small bony lumps on the end finger joints (Heberden's nodes).
What is the best exercise for arthritic hands?
A daily 5-minute routine of fist-to-fan, finger-to-thumb touches, and gentle putty squeezes maintains range of motion and grip strength without overloading inflamed joints.
Do hand splints actually help?
Yes — for thumb base (CMC) arthritis, a custom or off-the-shelf neoprene splint reduces pain during pinching tasks and is recommended by NICE as part of first-line care.
Are the bony lumps on my fingers permanent?
Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes are bone changes and don't shrink, but the pain associated with their formation usually settles within 1–2 years. The remaining stiffness can be managed with exercise.
When is hand surgery needed?
Surgery (most commonly trapeziectomy for thumb base arthritis or joint fusion for severe finger OA) is reserved for persistent pain that hasn't responded to splinting, exercise, injections and topical NSAIDs over 6+ months.