Here's information about osteoarthritis of the hand -- from what causes it to how it can be treated and how the pain can be managed.
Arthritis is a general term for inflammation in the joints. Arthritis can occur in numerous forms. The most common is osteoarthritis, a condition in which the cartilage, the protective cushioning between the joints, wears out. When this happens, the bones rub directly against other bones. This causes structural changes that can be seen on X-rays. Bone deposits or bone spurs known as osteophytes may develop on the edges of the joints. The soft tissues that stabilize joints may also show signs of wear.
Arthritis is often painful, but not always. Over time, arthritis can result in joint deformity and can limit the motion and function of joints.
Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, may affect one or more joints anywhere in the body. The joints most often affected are the hands and the weight-bearing joints of the lower extremities (knees, ankles, feet).
In osteoarthritis, there is a steady worsening and decline of joint cartilage. It affects only particular joints and not the rest of the body. The onset of osteoarthritis is directly related to aging, but the true causes are not known.
Certain factors are thought to be important in the development of osteoarthritis:
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, almost 21 million Americans aged 25 or older -- slightly more than 12% of the population -- have osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is more common in older people. But younger people may get the disease through injury or genetic bone defects. Because osteoarthritis results from wear and tear, the chance of developing the disease increases as people age.
Before age 45, more men than women get the disease. After age 45, more women than men are affected. Other risk factors include being overweight and having a job that causes particular stress to joints.
http://www.webmd.com/osteoarthritis/hand-osteoarthritis-degenerative-arthritis-of-the-hand