Rheumatoid Wrist Arthritis and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Of all forms of arthritis that strike the wrist, rheumatoid arthritis is the most common. This illness causes problems throughout the body; no joint is immune to the pain and stiffness associated with the condition.

With rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation can be intense enough to actually destroy bones and cartilage. When present in the hand, the degenerative situation can cause general and acute pain and swelling around the joints. Both of these symptoms can result in an individual having difficulty grasping and lifting objects.

The wrist contains what may be the most complex joint in the human body. The makeup of this joint is truly remarkable when examined in detail. Its complexity is what enables the wrist to perform the many diverse tasks that it encounters on a regular basis.

Surely you do not stop to appreciate the intricate procedures taking place beneath the skin covering your hand every time you write a letter, uncap a jar or throw a ball. It should come as no surprise that these diverse movements are taken for granted until they are put in jeopardy

The inflammation associated with arthritis can lead to damage to the nerves that surround the affected area. This occurrence can result in tingling and numbness in the fingers, a condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition is often associated with repetitive movement as well. In addition to complications from arthritis, prolonged time spent operating a keyboard can be a cause.

The carpal tunnel is a slim inflexible passageway at the bottom of the hand, comprised of bones and ligaments and containing tendons and the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when swelling narrows the passageway and the median nerve is compressed, causing pain, weakness and numbness in the wrist and arm.

Avoiding lifting heavy objects, wearing a wrist splint and applying heating pads to the area can be good treatment for wrist arthritis and carpal tunnel ailments.