Arthritis of the hand and wrist. Management options for some common arthritic conditions.

Many arthritic conditions can affect the small joints of the hand and wrist. An understanding of the disease process helps in managing the problem. Conservative care generally consists of rest, splinting, use of anti-inflammatory drugs, intra-articular injection with corticosteroids, and rehabilitation therapy. Surgical procedures for the arthritic hand are reserved for persistent cases of pain or instability that do not respond to conservative treatment.