Wrist arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the wrist joint, which includes the small hand bones and the ends of the radius and ulna. Wear-and-tear over time, immune system diseases, or injury can lead to breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage normally cushions joint surfaces, so when it wears away, bones rub, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced wrist movement—even affecting daily tasks like typing, cooking, or lifting.
Common Types of Wrist Arthritis
- Osteoarthritis (Wear and Tear)
Also known as “degenerative joint disease,” osteoarthritis results from age-related cartilage loss—even more likely after wrist fractures or ligament tears. One form, Scapholunate Advanced Collapse (SLAC), typically follows undiagnosed ligament injury and can be diagnosed via X-ray.
Learn more about Osteoarthritis - Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is a chronic autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own synovial lining, causing joint inflammation. It often affects both wrists simultaneously, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness (especially in the morning), and joint deformity over time.
Learn more about Rheumatoid Arthritis - Post-Traumatic Arthritis
This arthritis develops after a wrist injury—like a fracture or ligament tear. It accelerates cartilage wear within weeks or months and sometimes becomes chronic.
Learn more about Post-Traumatic Arthritis
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Wrist arthritis can feel like a constant ache or stiffness that makes everyday tasks frustrating. You might notice discomfort when turning a doorknob, lifting a grocery bag, or pushing yourself up from a chair. Some people describe it as a dull, deep pain that lingers, while others feel sharp twinges during movement. As the cartilage wears away, the wrist may feel weak or unstable, and simple motions like writing, typing, or twisting a jar lid can become challenging. Over time, the joint may lose flexibility and feel noticeably swollen or tender to the touch.
Common symptoms across types include:
- Persistent pain and aching
- Swelling and warmth
- Morning stiffness and loss of motion
- Weak grip strength
- Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations
- Joint deformity or nodules (especially in rheumatoid arthritis)
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination to assess pain, range of motion, and joint stability. X-rays are often used to detect joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or misalignment. For suspected autoimmune causes like rheumatoid arthritis, blood tests may be ordered to check for inflammation markers or antibodies. Advanced imaging such as MRI or CT scans may also be recommended in more complex or early-stage cases.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Dr. Donnelly typically begins wrist arthritis care with the least invasive methods. Non-surgical approaches are prioritized to help patients manage symptoms and preserve function for as long as possible before considering surgical intervention.
- Activity Modification & Splinting
Avoiding activities that stress the wrist and using braces to stabilize joints can reduce pain and inflammation. - Medications
Over-the-counter NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen) and acetaminophen help reduce discomfort and inflammation. For rheumatoid arthritis, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or biologics may be prescribed to slow joint damage. - Steroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections into the wrist joint can offer fast, short-term relief from inflammation and pain, especially during flare-ups. - Physical and Occupational Therapy
Tailored therapy plans help patients maintain flexibility, build strength, and learn ergonomic techniques to minimize strain during daily activities. - Emerging Modalities
Innovative approaches such as prolotherapy, wrist denervation, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be considered based on the patient’s condition and response to standard treatments.
Dr. Donnelly carefully evaluates each patient’s response to conservative care. If these options do not provide lasting relief or function declines significantly, surgical treatment may be explored.
Surgical Treatment Options
If non-surgical care proves insufficient, Dr. Donnelly may recommend a surgical approach tailored to the severity and progression of the condition. The goal of surgery is to relieve pain and preserve as much wrist function as possible.
- Synovectomy
In cases of inflammatory arthritis, removing the inflamed joint lining (synovium) can reduce pain and slow joint damage. - Proximal Row Carpectomy or Partial Joint Excision
This procedure removes select wrist bones to relieve pain while maintaining partial motion—often used in patients with SLAC or SNAC wrist patterns. - Wrist Fusion (Arthrodesis)
This procedure fuses bones in the wrist to eliminate motion in the arthritic joint. While it sacrifices flexibility, it significantly reduces pain and improves stability. - Wrist Replacement (Arthroplasty)
When appropriate, wrist replacement can offer pain relief while preserving some degree of wrist movement. Modern implants have improved outcomes for selected patients. - Wrist Denervation
For certain patients, severing specific pain-transmitting nerves around the wrist can reduce discomfort without altering joint structure or motion.
Dr. Donnelly’s treatment philosophy emphasizes patient education and shared decision-making. He works closely with each individual to weigh the risks and benefits of surgery and to ensure that all non-surgical options have been exhausted before proceeding.
Conclusion: Managing Wrist Arthritis
Wrist arthritis—from wear-and-tear, trauma, or autoimmune disease—is chronic but manageable. Early intervention with bracing, medications, therapy, and injections can delay or prevent surgical intervention. If conservative treatments fail, a range of surgical options—designed to reduce pain while preserving function—are available.
If you’re experiencing pain or reduced wrist use, consult a hand and wrist specialist or orthopedic surgeon. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can help you maintain wrist mobility and quality of life.
About Brandon P. Donnelly, MD
