Arthritis in the Hands and Wrists: How Orthopedic Surgery Can Help

This content  explores how arthritis in the hands and wrists can severely impact daily life and how Dr. Kiran M Ladkat, a leading orthopedic surgeon in Mumbai at Orthopod Clinic, offers advanced surgical solutions to help restore function, reduce pain, and improve quality of life for his patients.

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions worldwide, and when it targets the hands and wrists, even the simplest tasks—like buttoning a shirt or turning a key—can become painful and difficult. Dr. Kiran M Ladkat, an experienced orthopedic surgeon in Mumbai, specializes in treating hand and wrist arthritis at Orthopod Clinic, Mumbai, where he provides both non-surgical and surgical solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.

Understanding Hand and Wrist Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, and in the hand and wrist, it can result in pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. The most common forms affecting these areas include:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by wear and tear of the cartilage.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder that attacks joint linings.
• Following a traumatic injury, like a fracture or dislocated joint, this condition can develop.

Patients often experience early morning stiffness, joint swelling, difficulty gripping, and visible deformities in more advanced stages.

Non-Surgical Management: The First Line of Defense

Before considering surgery, Use of supportive devices like splints or braces to stabilize the joint and prevent further injury.

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections to control pain and inflammation.

• Physical Therapy: Helps improve joint flexibility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
• Splints or Braces: Support the joint and reduce strain during activities.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Ergonomic tools and joint-protection techniques can minimize stress on affected joints.

When these approaches fail to provide long-term relief, surgical options become necessary.

How Orthopedic Surgery Can Help

Surgery is often recommended when arthritis pain limits daily activities or joint deformity progresses despite conservative care. As a skilled hand and wrist surgeon in Mumbai, Dr. Kiran M Ladkat offers various advanced surgical treatments depending on the type, location, and severity of arthritis.

1. Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis)

The surgery fuses the joint bones, eliminating movement and reducing pain. It is commonly used in smaller joints of the fingers and wrist where mobility is less critical. Though the joint becomes immobile, pain relief and hand stability are significantly improved.

2. Joint Replacement (Arthroplasty)

If it’s necessary to preserve joint movement, joint replacement might be considered as a solution. Damaged joint surfaces are replaced with metal, plastic, or silicone prosthetics. This option is suitable for patients who need to maintain function in everyday tasks such as writing or gripping.

3. Synovectomy

In this procedure, the inflamed synovial tissue around the joints is removed, making it particularly effective for early-stage rheumatoid arthritis. It can significantly reduce pain and slow disease progression.

4. Proximal Row Carpectomy and Wrist Arthroplasty

For advanced wrist arthritis, procedures like proximal row carpectomy (removal of specific wrist bones) or total wrist arthroplasty (wrist joint replacement) are performed. The focus of these surgeries is to regain pain-free wrist movement while keeping as much function intact as possible.

Personalized Care at Orthopod Clinic, Mumbai

At Orthopod Clinic in Mumbai, Dr. Kiran M Ladkat offers a patient-centric approach combining precision diagnosis, the latest imaging tools, and evidence-based treatments. Whether it’s mild discomfort or severe deformity, every arthritis case is evaluated thoroughly to determine the most suitable treatment—surgical or non-surgical.

Patients benefit from:

• State-of-the-art surgical facilities
• Post-operative rehabilitation support
• Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery
• Comprehensive arthritis management programs

Recovery and Life After Surgery

How quickly one recovers depends on the surgery type and the severity of the arthritis. Most patients can expect:

• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Improved joint stability and function
• A gradual return to daily activities
• Physical rehabilitation aimed at increasing mobility and strength.

Dr. Ladkat works closely with physiotherapists and rehabilitation experts to ensure each patient regains hand and wrist function safely and effectively.

When to Consider Surgical Treatment

You should consult an orthopedic specialist if:

• Pain persists despite medication and therapy
• You have difficulty performing routine tasks
• There’s noticeable joint deformity or instability
• Arthritis symptoms are worsening over time

Early consultation can prevent further damage and open up more treatment options.

Summary:

Hand and wrist arthritis can greatly impact your quality of life but with modern orthopedic surgery, long-term relief and functional improvement are possible. Dr. Kiran M Ladkat, a trusted orthopedic surgeon in Mumbai at Orthopod Clinic, combines surgical expertise with compassionate care to deliver lasting results for arthritis patients.

If you’re struggling with hand or wrist pain, don’t wait. Quick diagnosis and tailored treatment plans are essential for improved outcomes.