Pain, stiffness, and swelling in your hands may seem like minor annoyances at first—but when these symptoms begin to interfere with your daily life, they could be signs of hand arthritis. Whether you’re struggling to open jars, type on a keyboard, or simply hold a coffee cup, it’s time to take the pain seriously. Fortunately, help is close to home. A hand doctor near me at Nadora Healthcare can expertly diagnose arthritis and offer tailored treatment options to restore your comfort and function.
Understanding Hand Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced motion. The hand is one of the most common areas affected by arthritis because it contains multiple small joints that endure constant use.
The two most common forms of arthritis in the hands are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This “wear-and-tear” arthritis occurs when the cartilage between joints breaks down over time. It typically affects the base of the thumb, the joints closest to the fingertips, and the middle knuckles.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This autoimmune disease causes the body to attack its own joint lining, often affecting the wrists and knuckles on both hands symmetrically.
Regardless of type, hand arthritis can cause persistent pain, joint deformity, weakness, and reduced grip strength—making even basic tasks difficult or impossible without treatment.
Why See a Hand Doctor at Nadora Healthcare?
At Nadora Healthcare, Dr. Billy Baumgartner is our fellowship-trained hand doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the hand and wrist. He is uniquely equipped to identify subtle signs of arthritis, distinguish it from other conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis, and develop a care plan specific to your needs and lifestyle.
During your first visit, your hand doctor will perform a detailed physical exam, assess your symptoms, and may order X-rays or other imaging studies to evaluate the severity of joint damage. If necessary, additional testing can help rule out autoimmune or systemic causes.
Most importantly, your Nadora Healthcare specialist will take the time to listen—to understand how arthritis is affecting your life and what your goals are for treatment.
Comprehensive Treatment Options
At Nadora Healthcare, arthritis care begins with non-surgical treatment whenever possible. Your hand doctor may recommend a combination of:
- Activity modification: Learning how to avoid positions or movements that stress painful joints.
- Splinting or bracing: Supporting affected joints to reduce pain during daily activities.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Oral or topical treatments to manage swelling and discomfort.
- Corticosteroid injections: Targeted injections to reduce inflammation in specific joints.
- Occupational therapy referral: Exercises to maintain or improve joint flexibility and hand function.
These treatments can be very effective, especially when started early. Many patients experience improved comfort, reduced swelling, and a better ability to complete everyday tasks without surgical intervention.
Surgical Options for Advanced Arthritis
If arthritis is advanced or no longer responds to conservative care, your hand doctor may discuss surgical options tailored to your specific condition and goals. Surgical procedures may include:
- Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Stabilizes the joint to eliminate pain, though it limits movement.
- Joint replacement (arthroplasty): Replaces the damaged joint with an artificial one, preserving mobility.
- Trapeziectomy: Often used for arthritis at the base of the thumb, this procedure removes the damaged bone causing pain.
Nadora Healthcare hand surgeons like Dr. Baumgartner are skilled in minimally invasive techniques that reduce downtime and help you return to your normal routine more quickly.
Personalized, Compassionate Care By A Hand Doctor Near Me
What makes Nadora Healthcare stand out is its patient-centered philosophy. From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, your care is built around your lifestyle, activity level, and long-term goals. Our hand doctors are committed to improving not only your hand function—but also your quality of life.
You’ll receive clear communication, compassionate guidance, and evidence-based solutions every step of the way.
Don’t Wait—Relief Is Within Reach
If hand pain is disrupting your work, hobbies, or daily routine, it’s time to get answers. Arthritis is a manageable condition, especially when treated early and by the right specialist.
Schedule a consultation with a hand doctor near me at Nadora Healthcare and take the first step toward long-term relief and restored hand function. You don’t have to live with hand pain—Dr. Baumgartner is here to help you get back to what you love, pain-free. Visit NadoraHealthcare.com/Ortho to schedule your appointment!
