Osteoarthritis of the wrist and hand joints is a common degenerative condition in which the protective cartilage covering the joints gradually wears away over time, causing the bones to rub against each other. This leads to pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced flexibility, and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as writing, gripping, opening jars, buttoning clothes, or lifting objects. The condition most commonly develops with ageing but may also occur following previous injuries, repetitive hand use, or joint instability.
As osteoarthritis progresses, the joints may become enlarged, tender, and less mobile, affecting hand strength and overall function. Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help slow the progression of symptoms and improve quality of life. Physiotherapy plays an important role by reducing pain, improving joint mobility, strengthening the muscles that support the wrist and hand, and enhancing grip and functional movement. A personalised rehabilitation programme, combined with activity modification, joint protection strategies, and therapeutic exercises, helps patients maintain independence, improve daily function, and safely return to work, hobbies, and other routine activities with greater comfort and confidence.