An orthopaedic surgeon has appeared on BBC Morning Live to highlight how arthritis can be "very debilitating" and often affects unexpected areas of the body, particularly the hands and thumbs. Dr Tom Naylor explained that while many people associate arthritis with hips and knees, they frequently overlook how it impacts hand function in daily life.
Understanding Arthritis and Its Impact on Hands
Speaking on the programme, Dr Naylor described arthritis as a term encompassing pain, stiffness, and inflammation in joints. "It literally means inflammation of a joint," he stated, emphasising that this condition can severely limit everyday activities.
He specifically addressed CMCJ (Carpometacarpal joint) arthritis, which affects the joint at the base of the thumb. "What happens is the joint starts to wear away and the cartilage becomes increasingly worn," Dr Naylor explained. "This can even lead to deformity, impacting everything you do with your hands."
The Simple 'Pinch Test' for Early Detection
Dr Naylor demonstrated an easy self-check that viewers can perform at home. By pinching the thumb and index finger together, individuals can assess for soreness that might indicate underlying arthritis. "If it feels sore, it may be a good idea to see a GP," he advised.
This seemingly simple movement occurs frequently in daily routines without conscious awareness, such as when holding a mug or plate. The constant strain from these actions can exacerbate thumb arthritis symptoms over time.
Stepwise Treatment Approach for Arthritis
Dr Naylor outlined a systematic, four-step treatment strategy for managing arthritis symptoms:
- Activity modification and painkillers: Adjusting daily routines and using appropriate medications
- Splints and aids: Implementing supportive devices to reduce joint strain
- Hand therapy and injections: Engaging in specialised therapy and considering medical injections
- Surgery: Considering surgical options when other treatments prove ineffective
"With all types of arthritis, we tend to follow what's called a stepwise approach to treatment," Dr Naylor explained. He recommended trying conservative measures like hand therapy or altering how objects are held before contemplating surgical intervention.
Practical Tips for Daily Management
The orthopaedic surgeon offered practical advice for those experiencing thumb arthritis. Instead of using a traditional handle grip when holding a mug, which can worsen pain, he suggested employing a "power grip." This involves holding the mug with the entire hand while using the other hand underneath for additional support, taking care to avoid burns from hot beverages.
Recognising Arthritis Symptoms
Arthritis manifests in various forms with differing symptoms, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Common indicators include:
- Joint pain, tenderness, and stiffness
- Inflammation in and around affected joints
- Restricted joint movement
- Warm, red skin over the joint
- Muscle weakness and wasting
Distinguishing Between Common Arthritis Types
Dr Naylor clarified the differences between the two most prevalent arthritis forms. "Osteoarthritis has traditionally been regarded as wear and tear, though we now understand it's more complex," he noted. "It typically involves underlying cartilage problems in joints and often runs in families."
He contrasted this with rheumatoid arthritis, describing it as "more of an inflammatory process where the body's immune system attacks the joints themselves." This distinction highlights the importance of proper diagnosis for effective treatment planning.
The BBC Morning Live segment concluded with Dr Naylor reinforcing that early detection through simple tests like the pinch check, combined with appropriate medical guidance, can significantly improve management of arthritis symptoms and maintain hand functionality.
