Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects joints, often leading to significant hand deformities. These deformities can greatly impact daily life and functionality.
One major misconception about RA is that it’s solely a joint disease. However, as explained by Dr. Alejandro Badia, MD, FACS, founder of the Badia Hand and Shoulder Center, RA also involves chronic inflammation in the synovial tissue, which covers and lubricates the body’s joints. This inflammation results in stiffness and swelling in the affected areas.
Hand deformities in RA, such as inverted appearing knuckles, occur due to the damage RA causes to the joints. Over time, this can lead to disability due to pain and restricted range of motion. The hands, containing 25 joints each, are particularly susceptible to RA. Common deformities include the Boutonniere deformity, where the middle finger joint is bent, and the swan-neck deformity, characterized by a bent end of the finger and an over-extended middle joint.
The exact causes of RA are not fully understood, but it is known to be an autoimmune disorder. Symptoms typically include stiff, swollen, or painful joints. Managing RA requires a comprehensive approach, focusing on reducing inflammation and preventing joint damage.
For more detailed information on RA in hands, its symptoms, and complications, you can visit various health resources. Healthline provides insights into RA hand deformities, while Verywell Health covers symptoms and complications of rheumatoid arthritis in hands. Additionally, WebMD discusses finger joint pain and inflammation associated with RA.
Further resources include RheumatoidArthritis.org, detailing how RA affects hand joints, and The Hand Society, which provides information on signs and treatments of rheumatoid arthritis. Verywell Health also discusses the risk of hand deformity in rheumatoid arthritis.
