Every joint in the body is susceptible to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Hand arthritis frequently affects the base of the thumb, the knuckles, the second joint, and the top joint of the fingers. Common kinds of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, and there is finger rheumatoid arthritis treatment exclusively for specific joints. Joint fusion, joint replacement, and tendon transfer are all surgical procedures.

Signs and symptoms of finger rheumatoid arthritis
A soft lump on the hand that moves with the tendons that straighten the fingers
A creaking sound when moving the fingers
Fingers drifting away from the direction of the thumb
Swelling and inflammation of the tendons that move the fingers
Unable to move or bend the fingers

Treatment for finger rheumatoid arthritis
The purpose of treatment is to:
Lessen joint stiffness and discomfort
Increase function and mobility
Boost the standard of one’s life
Help stop the advancement of the disease in rheumatoid arthritis cases.

Given below are some treatment options for rheumatoid finger arthritis. However, there are risks and reasons not to use easily available treatments, so it is best to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any.

Non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory options
These products lessen joint discomfort and swelling in affected joints. The primary topical treatment of choice for osteoarthritis is topical NSAIDs.

Biologic agents
These can mitigate the effects of rheumatoid arthritis on the joints.

Corticosteroids
These treatments are effective for rheumatoid finger arthritis as they work by reducing inflammation and other symptoms.

Anti-rheumatic treatments
These lessen the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and decrease its progression.

Immune suppressants
These lessen damage to the bone around joints and decrease the course of rheumatoid arthritis.

Splints
Joint stress can be reduced, and future deformation can be prevented with a splint that restricts hand movements. Braces come in various sizes and shapes, from small ones that support a single knuckle to bigger ones that support the wrist and hand. Doctors frequently advise the use of splints.

Steroid injections
Steroids lessen pain and inflammation. When anti-inflammatory treatments fail to manage inflammation or the inflammation is only present in a few joints, steroids are typically employed. Direct injections are given into the injured joint. Injections are only given a few times because steroids have been shown to damage tendons and ligaments.

Compression gloves
Nylon and elastane are used to create compression gloves that are snug-fitting and flexible. They are often worn at night. Compression gloves improve hand function by reducing hand pain and stiffness. Even though these gloves are frequently used and regarded as safe, there is little evidence that they are helpful.

Surgical options
Surgery might be a possibility if nonsurgical finger rheumatoid arthritis treatment is no longer effective and the cartilage on the ends of the bones have worn off. There are various methods:

Joint fusion (arthrodesis): In this procedure, the bones of one’s joint are held together by a plate and screws. Although the joint will be more stable and pain-free, it won’t be as flexible or mobile.

Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Similar to the previous joint replacements, the injured joint will be replaced by a surgical implant composed of plastic, ceramic, silicone, or metal. It is essential to note that hinged finger implants do not replicate the motion of a finger.

Surgery for specific joints
Thumb base: Where the thumb and wrist converge at the base of one’s thumb. Common surgical procedures include tendon transfer, joint fusion, and partial or complete removal of one of the trapezium bones (the wrist bone just below the thumb joint).

Distal interphalangeal joints, the top of the finger: Joint fusion is frequently performed to treat arthritis.

Second joint of the finger (proximal interphalangeal joints): Loss of mobility and stiffness are frequent effects of osteoarthritis. For these joints, joint replacement or fusion are options. However, there is a danger that the implant could deteriorate since one utilizes these joints the most. In this situation, the doctor might advise more surgery.

Knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints): Joint replacement is usually nearly an option when this repair is needed. The knuckles may suffer significant harm and incapacity due to rheumatoid arthritis.

Topical treatments
Since joints are close to the skin’s surface on the hands, topical painkillers offer momentary pain relief. Topical painkillers are available easily with or without a prescription and come in the form of lotions, balms, gels, or patches for effective finger rheumatoid arthritis treatment.

In general, topical treatments are risk-free and less likely to have gastrointestinal side effects than oral ones. They may, nevertheless, interact with other treatments and produce adverse effects.

It is best to consult a doctor regarding the treatment options for this condition.