Management of Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist Without Arthroplasty or Arthrodesis

Abstract

Conservative treatment is a mainstay of clinical practice for any hand surgeon with nearly all conditions, but especially with hand and wrist arthritis. Nonoperative modalities including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bracing, occupational therapy, steroid injections and topical treatments all have a role in treatment. Patients who have symptoms that do not respond to these, but who are not willing to undergo arthroplasty or arthrodesis may be indicated for joint denervation or cheilectomy as a less invasive treatment.