Discover effective tips, dietary changes, and alternative treatments to naturally alleviate arthritis pain in your fingers. Explore holistic approaches to enhance your quality of life.
Are your knuckles aching, joints stiffening, and fingers occasionally going numb?
These might be early signs of osteoarthritis in your fingers, a condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, explore conventional and alternative treatments, and provide practical tips to combat pain, stiffness, and discomfort, with a focus on finding a natural cure for arthritis in fingers.
Contents
Early signs and types of arthritis in fingers
Types of osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can manifest in various forms, such as:
– Osteoarthritis nodes: Hard and bony nodules, known as Heberden’s nodes, may appear at the distal interphalangeal joints, causing swelling and discomfort.
Heberden nodes are caused by the formation of osteophytes (bone growth) caused by repeated trauma to the joint.
– Bouchard’s nodes: Bone growths in the proximal interphalangeal joints, known as Bouchard’s nodes, can limit joint movement.
– Mucoid Cysts: Small, fluid-filled pockets between the last knuckle and the nail may require surgical excision for the best treatment.
Other types of arthritis
- Psoriatic arthritis: Dactylitis, “sausage fingers,” and toenail pits are common indicators, often confused with common osteoarthritis.
- Gouty arthritis: Mimicking infection, gouty arthritis results from high uric acid levels, forming crystals in the joints, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation visible on x-rays.
Understanding rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect both children and adults, presenting unique challenges in each group.
- Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis: Affects children, with various forms like polyarticular and chronic pauciarticular arthritis, often accompanied by eye inflammation.
- Adult rheumatoid arthritis: Typically bilateral and symmetrical, affecting mainly the hands and feet, causing pain, stiffness, and periarticular erosions visible on x-rays.
Stages of rheumatoid arthritis in hands
Understanding the stages of rheumatoid arthritis progression is crucial for effective management.
- Stage 1: Early signs include swollen, hot, and tender joints at the base of the fingers and wrists.
- Complicated stage: Worsening conditions with digital vasculitis, bruises, skin atrophy, and nodules present.
- Advanced stage: Swollen wrist joints, lateral tendon slippage, tendon ruptures, and ulnar deviation of fingers may appear, visible on x-rays showing joint destruction.
Symptoms and diagnosis of osteoarthritis in fingers
While pain is a primary symptom, other indicators may include swelling, temporary redness, and increased temperature in the affected area.
Diagnosing osteoarthritis in the hands typically involves a visual examination by a rheumatologist, as joint fluid puncture can be particularly painful.
Treatment approaches
Conventional treatments
Treatment varies based on the diagnosed cause.
For gouty arthritis, joint rest and anti-inflammatory drugs are recommended, while rheumatoid arthritis may require anti-inflammatory treatments during attacks and specific medications for long-term relief.
Lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments
Certain foods can exacerbate inflammation, making it crucial to adjust your diet.
Omega-6 fatty acids, found in corn, soybeans, and certain oils, should be minimized.
Additionally, excess sugar intake can contribute to chronic inflammation, worsening arthritis symptoms.
It generates a sudden rise in blood sugar associated with insulin production.
Too much insulin causes the production of inflammatory substances that are very damaging to osteoarthritis.
So avoid all fast sugars like sweets, cakes, sugary drinks and sodas, desserts, and gourmet coffees.
Natural remedies for arthritis in fingers
Managing arthritis often involves a combination of natural treatments and supplements.
Herbs and essential oils
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Ginger
Ginger has the particularity of decreasing leukotrienes (the mediators of inflammation) which the immune system uses to destroy pathogens.
It is also antibacterial and is shown to be an excellent antioxidant.
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Cinnamon
This spice reduces the c-reactive protein that is released by the liver due to chronic inflammation.
It is very interesting to introduce it into your desserts or even to compose a combination of honey and cinnamon to consume on an empty stomach in the morning.
Give preference to Ceylon cinnamon which does not present any toxicity to the organism.
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Garlic
Garlic is hands down the best natural antibacterial and antiviral.
It is also an excellent antioxidant that helps fight inflammation effectively.
If the smell bothers you, there are odorless garlic supplements.
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Black pepper
Black pepper has a major impact on the cytokines that are the basis of the inflammatory reaction.
It is therefore a perfect anti-inflammatory to treat rheumatism.
Essential oils for Heberden’s nodes
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Wintergreen osteoarthritis
Number one essential oil effective for pain, wintergreen is most indicated for osteoarthritis.
Mix ten drops with 10ml of vegetable oil and enjoy its powerful anti-inflammatory effect and gentle soothing heat.
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Lemon eucalyptus oil
It is the most suitable essential oil after wintergreen, with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
It acts on joint pain with a few drops diluted in vegetable oil.
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Oregano essential oil
Oregano can reduce immune attacks while having antibacterial properties.
Dilute a few drops in 10ml of any vegetable oil then massage your hands carefully.
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Peppermint benefits
If you are looking for an anesthetic icy high, peppermint is for you.
It is an excellent analgesic and is very effective for all types of rheumatism.
Again, dilute a few drops in 10ml of vegetable oil then massage your hands for a long time.
It is also possible to create an even more powerful synergy by associating wintergreen, oregano, and lemon eucalyptus with vegetable oil.
You will thus benefit from their anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits by performing a massage three times a day
Natural treatment for finger arthritis
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Potassium
It is important to increase your potassium level.
Some studies show that increasing potassium levels by providing 5 or 6000mg per day significantly reduces symptoms.
As a general rule, food intake varies between 2 and 6 grams per day.
WHO recommends at least 3,5 grams per day.
If you want to increase your potassium level, talk to your doctor so that you can set up specific monitoring.
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Vitamin D
This sun hormone has very interesting anti-inflammatory properties.
It is involved in all forms of inflammatory reactions and is essential in the fight against rheumatism.
You can supplement yourself with a daily dose ranging from 2000 to 5000IU to reap its benefits.
I use a 5000UI vitamin D supplement you can find here (ad).
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Magnesium
We all know that magnesium helps relax muscles, but it also has a major impact on the joints.
Combined with vitamin D, it is recommended to take 300mg per day to significantly reduce pain.
Prefer a magnesium bisglycinate like this one because it is better absorbed by the body and has far fewer side effects (ad).
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Turmeric
Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory drug that works well in arthritis treatment.
A dosage of 1000mg per day is recommended for your pain relief.
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Bromelain
This digestive enzyme from pineapple is as essential as turmeric for immediate pain relief.
It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties as effective as common anti-inflammatories prescribed by medicine.
Prefer a bromelain supplement to moderate your attacks (ad).
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Glucosamine
Glucosamine and chondroitin are very effective in providing your body with the nutrients needed for good joint health.
However, it has a drag, it does not work as effectively for everyone.
So you can give it a try by choosing a glucosamine-chondroitin supplement and determining its impact on your joints (ad).
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MSM
MSM or methyl sulfonyl methane is a compound naturally present in the body.
Widely used to reduce pain related to osteoarthritis and arthritis, it has a very powerful anti-inflammatory activity.
It may therefore be wise to increase your natural production by taking an MSM supplement (ad).
You will thus be able to reduce pain, reduce any swelling, and moderate joint stiffness.
The recommended dosage ranges between 1 and 3 grams per day in divided doses.
Start with a moderate dose and then adjust it according to the observed results.
Proceed in cures, no more than 30 days.
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Fish oil
Omega 3s are essential in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.
Of course, you can find them in the diet but if you are having trouble staying the course of meals rich in omega-3, it is a good idea to introduce a fish oil supplement (ad).
A dose of 1000mg per day is recommended.
Managing pain and supporting mobility
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Splints for arthritis fingers
Every pain you feel is an arthritis flare. During these attacks, the deformities of the phalanges accelerate.
It is therefore wise to bring dedicated splints to both relieve and prevent progression.
I use Oval-8 Finger Splints which are by far the most efficient and comfortable for stopping pain during attacks (ad).
You can also wear this type of magnetic ring to immobilize a more sensitive joint discreetly (ad).
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Orthosis to support the thumb
The thumb orthosis is essential to ensure greater immobilization of the thumb.
It thus preserves the joints from the development of rheumatoid arthritis while providing invaluable help for all the gestures of daily life.
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Hot-cold gel mittens
These mittens can diffuse both heat and cold and bring immediate pain relief (ad).
You just need to place it in the freezer to calm the congestion of the hands by the icy effect or a few seconds in the microwave to relieve the inflammation by the softness of the heat.
You can even alternate the two extremes for a deep treatment.
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Copper bracelet to temper the pain
Copper has invaluable anti-inflammatory properties and can be absorbed through the dermis.
Wearing a bracelet made of this material prevents pain while changing your copper level in the blood.
In a few days, it inhibits the activity of pro-inflammatory molecules and the pain subsides.
I am wearing a copper bracelet like this every year from fall through spring (ad).
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Hemp pain relief gel
CBD (cannabidiol) has been on the rise in recent years. But its effectiveness for pain is beyond dispute.
Massage your hands twice a day with this hemp pain relief gel and you will notice a real difference in joint stiffness (ad).
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Rehabilitation ball
It is wrong to say that you should not use your fingers too much when you have osteoarthritis.
Mobility must be continuous so that the joints do not come together to stiffen the finger.
It is crucial to maintain constant mobility by exercising regularly.
A rehab ball allows you to perform precision movements while maintaining muscle strength (ad).
This step is essential so that the disease does not escalate further.
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Hand massager
The hand massager diffuses heat while providing a soothing overall massage.
With 3 degrees of pressure, it allows you to choose the program that will bring you the most relief.
This portable and wireless massager fights crises with amazing efficiency (ad).
Note that it is not recommended in cases of osteoporosis or diabetes.
Taking charge of arthritis in your fingers
While managing arthritis, particularly in the hands, can be challenging, being proactive in your approach is key.
Incorporate natural treatments, supplements, and lifestyle changes to mitigate symptoms and slow down the progression of the condition, with a specific focus on finding a natural cure for arthritis in fingers.
Remember, every step you take to support your joint health contributes to an improved quality of life.
If you find the pain and discomfort persisting, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options.
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Arthritis in Fingers: Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most effective way to treat arthritis in hands?
The best treatment for arthritis in hands varies, but a combination of natural remedies, lifestyle adjustments, and, if needed, medical interventions can help manage symptoms effectively.
How do you know if your fingers have arthritis?
Recognizing arthritis in your fingers involves paying attention to symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness. If you experience these signs, consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.
At what age does arthritis in hands usually occur?
Arthritis in hands can occur at various ages, but it’s more common as people get older, often affecting individuals over the age of 40 or 50.
Which fingers are typically affected by arthritis first?
Arthritis often begins in the smaller joints, such as the fingers. The joints at the ends of the fingers (distal interphalangeal joints) are frequently the first to be affected.
What are the foods that should be avoided for arthritis?
Foods that are high in omega-6 fatty acids and quick sugars should be avoided for arthritis management. Instead, focus on a balanced diet, and consider natural supplements to support joint health.
What can trigger arthritis symptoms in fingers?
Arthritis symptoms in fingers can be aggravated by factors like stress, cold weather, or overuse. Understanding your personal triggers and making lifestyle adjustments can help prevent flare-ups.