Finger arthritis treatment

The main symptom of finger arthritis is pain. Traditional methods like application of hot or cold packs can help reduce pain and swelling associated with finger arthritis. Pain and inflammation can also be managed using pain killers and anti inflammatory medications. Non steroidal anti inflammatory medications like aspirin and ibuprofen are the most commonly used medications. They help reduce pain and swelling around the knuckles and the finger as the whole. The patient may also be advised to reduce activities that require heavy and repetitive use of the fingers and hands.  In case osteoarthritis is causing the pain and swelling in the fingers, joint supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine can be used. They help build cartilage and can restrict the damage to some extent. In case the pain and swelling are severe, cortisone injections may be administered. This is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent although the pain relief it offers is only temporary and lasts for a few weeks. Hand therapy by a qualified and trained physiotherapist can help keep the joints flexible and prevent joints from becoming stiff. The therapist may suggest some range of motion exercises and stretching exercises to keep the joints flexible. In some cases, a special brace or splint may be used to rest and relax the joints.