Millions of people across the world suffer from arthritis, a widespread ailment that can take many different forms· The most frequent symptoms are pain, stiffness, and limited movement in the afflicted joints·
Of the many varieties, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are well-known; they affect the joints in various ways but share the same outcome of making daily tasks more difficult· With hand arthritis in particular, finger splints have drawn attention due to its ability to reduce symptoms and enhance joint function, even if treatment choices vary from medicine to physical therapy·
Arthroeze is one of the market’s most reputable finger splint providers, always make an informed decision when buying finger splints.
An Understanding of Hand Arthritis
Hand arthritis may seriously impair a person’s capacity to carry out daily activities, including typing, holding things, and even basic motions like turning on a doorknob·
The most common kind of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is characterised by a progressive loss of cartilage in the joints, which causes discomfort, oedema, and a restricted range of motion· In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system targets the synovium, resulting in joint tissue destruction and inflammation·
Both forms of arthritis can affect the fingers, resulting in abnormalities such as boutonniere or swan neck deformity, which change the fingers’ natural alignment and reduce function· Additionally, arthritis can cause joint instability, which increases the risk of dislocations or subluxations in the afflicted fingers·
What Are Finger Splints Used For?
Orthopaedic devices called finger splints, often called finger braces or supports, are made to immobilise, support, or shield the fingers and surrounding joints· Although they are frequently used to treat sprains and fractures, they are also quite helpful in managing arthritis· Here’s how using finger splints might help treat arthritis:
Immobilisation: By preventing needless movement that exacerbates arthritic symptoms, immobilising the afflicted fingers can help lessen pain and inflammation· With the help of finger splints, joints are stabilised and excessive flexion or extension is prevented, which might exacerbate the problem·
Treatment of Deformities: Custom splints can be used to maintain fingers in appropriate alignment when arthritis has resulted in deformities· Better hand function is encouraged and this corrective function halts further deformity advancement ·
Joint Protection: Finger splints serve as a barrier to protect the injured joints from outside forces or unintentional harm· For those who have arthritis, this is especially crucial because even small bumps or knocks can worsen pain and inflammation·
Reducing Stress on Joints: Splints assist in lessening the strain placed on arthritic joints during daily tasks by equally dispersing pressure throughout the fingers and hand· In the long run, this can reduce pain and stop joint degradation·
Supporting Weak Muscles: The muscles that surround the afflicted joints are frequently become weaker by arthritis· With the external support that finger splints offer, weak muscles may be compensated for and improved movement efficiency is enabled·
Types Of Splints
The many sizes and forms of finger splints are designed to meet the unique requirements of people with arthritis· Typical varieties include some of the following:
Static Splints: The purpose of these splints is to immobilise and hold the fingers in place· Usually composed of plastic or aluminium, they are worn constantly or only when engaged in particular tasks to offer stability and support·
Dynamic Splints: These splints, as opposed to static ones, provide controlled finger mobility while yet offering support· Over time, they increase joint flexibility by gradually stretching stiff tissues with the help of adjustable tension devices·
Custom-Made Splints: Occupational therapists or orthotics may be required to create custom-made splints for patients with severe arthritis or complicated abnormalities· For the best fit and efficacy, these splints are customised to the patient’s specific anatomy and functional needs·
What Are The Benefits Of Using Finger Splints?
Pain Relief: Finger splints help ease the pain and suffering of arthritis by stabilising the afflicted joints and minimising needless movement·
Better Function: By maintaining appropriate joint alignment and halting the progression of deformities, splints aid in the restoration or maintenance of hand function· This makes it easier for those with arthritis to carry out everyday duties·
Enhanced Mobility: People using finger splints have more mobility because of less discomfort and better joint stability, which enables them to participate in activities they would not have otherwise been able to·
Avoiding consequences: Prolonged immobilisation or untreated abnormalities can lead to consequences like joint contractures, which are something that finger splints can help prevent·
What Should You Be Considering When Getting A Finger Splint?
Appropriate Fit: Poorly fitted splints can aggravate joint abnormalities, irritate the skin, and create pain· It’s critical to check that the splint does not obstruct circulation and fits pleasantly but snugly·
Gradual Adjustment: It’s best to begin wearing finger splints for brief periods and then progressively extend them as long as tolerated· This prevents unnecessary pressure on the muscles and tissues while they adjust to the support provided by the splint·
Frequent Monitoring: It’s critical to schedule routine check-ups with medical professionals to evaluate the splints’ efficacy, make any required modifications, and handle any potential issues or problems·
Combination Therapy: When combined with other arthritis care techniques including medication, exercise, and occupational therapy, finger splints are most successful· For those with arthritis, a multidisciplinary approach guarantees complete care and improved results·
What Happens If Arthritis Is Not Treated?
Ignoring arthritis can have serious repercussions on one’s general health as well as joint health· Even though each person’s experience and course of arthritis symptoms may differ, neglecting the illness can have various negative effects:
Joint Damage Progression: If left untreated, arthritis is a progressive disorder that will deteriorate over time· In the absence of proper treatment, the persistent inflammation and structural alterations in the joints may cause irreparable harm, such as bone erosion, cartilage loss, and joint abnormalities·
Chronic Pain and Discomfort: If arthritis is left untreated, it can cause chronic pain and discomfort that can make it harder for the person to go about their regular activities and reduce their quality of life· Constant pain can cause mental and physical anguish by interfering with work, sleep, and leisure activities·
Functional Limitations: As arthritis worsens, a person’s range of motion and joint stiffness become more noticeable, which makes it harder for them to move and carry out daily duties· Functional deficits that impact autonomy and independence may arise from this·
