Hand therapy is a specialist area of physiotherapy and occupational therapy that treats conditions and injuries affecting the hand and wrist.

Treatment options include:

• exercises
• splints and supports
• education and advice
• symptom management advice
• heat therapy
• wax therapy.

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a type of degenerative joint disease that results in reduced cartilage within a joint.

Cartilage helps by:

• absorbing shock
• providing a smooth surface for movement.

Typical symptoms include:

• stiffness, particularly in the morning
• pain during activity, which is often worse as the day goes on
• joint tenderness
• weakness.

Osteoarthritis may be caused by a combination of age-related changes, hormonal changes and activity-related changes.

There may also be a genetic cause in approximately 40 to 70 per cent of cases.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition. However, if managed well, progression may be slowed and significant effects can often be prevented.

What is rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and inflammatory arthritis are umbrella terms used for a group of autoimmune conditions affecting the joints.

The immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, leading to:

• cartilage breakdown
• bone erosion
• ligament damage
• tendon damage
• inflammation.

These conditions commonly affect:

• the wrists
• the knuckles
• the middle joints of the fingers.

Diagnosis is usually made by a rheumatologist and may involve:

• blood tests
• ultrasound scans
• X-rays.