Hand Arthritis Treated by an Acclaimed Expert in Arlington, VA

Woman sitting on her bed rubbing her painful arthritic hand

Hand arthritis can strike at any age. This painful condition has several subtypes, all of which are characterized by a gradual degeneration of the cushioning cartilage in the finger and thumb joints. In general, the main goals of hand arthritis treatment are to relieve discomfort, improve function and prevent further damage.

Because the hand is a highly complex structure, it is always best to seek hand arthritis treatment from a physician who has specialized knowledge and experience. Individuals in the Arlington, Virginia, area can receive exceptional care from Cassie G. Root, MD, the hand and wrist specialist who practices at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center. A board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Root has earned a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery as well as the trust and respect of countless patients and peers.

Types of Hand Arthritis

Dr. Root evaluates and treats all types of hand arthritis, including:

  • Osteoarthritis – Due to ongoing wear and tear, the cartilage in the hand joints can break down over time.
  • Post-traumatic arthritis – An injury can damage the joint cartilage in a hand, setting off a process of persistent inflammation and progressive degeneration.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis – This chronic and progressive autoimmune condition can cause joint inflammation that often affects the fingers.

After diagnosing a specific type of hand arthritis, Dr. Root will typically suggest a conservative treatment regimen, which may include anti-inflammatory or anti-rheumatic medications, physical therapy, cortisone or lubricant injections and/or bracing. However, if the symptoms of hand arthritis are very severe or persistent, she may suggest surgery. Patients who ultimately elect surgical treatment for hand arthritis are in good hands with Dr. Root, who is skilled and experienced in performing the latest surgical techniques and procedures.

If you would like to explore your treatment options for hand arthritis, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment with our hand specialist in Arlington, VA.