July 17, 2025—Hand arthritis is a common condition that affects the joints of the hands. For some people, it can cause minor aches in the joints. Others might have more debilitating symptoms, such as impaired movement, severe pain and swelling in the hands.
Hand arthritis can interfere with daily life. Fortunately, the Arthritis Foundation and other experts offer helpful tips for managing symptoms. Here are five you can try today.
1. Try hand exercises and stretches
Exercising and stretching your hands can help keep your joints flexible, maintain your hand strength and even reduce pain.
Try this finger stretch anywhere you have access to a flat, stable surface (like a table):
- Put your hand palm down on a flat surface, fingers together. You can stabilize your wrist by holding it with your other hand.
- Spread your fingers, including your thumb. Hold for 5 seconds.
- Close your fingers together again. Repeat this five times; then switch hands.
You can do this basic finger-touch exercise at home, at work or on the go:
- Hold your hand in front of your face with your palm facing you, fingers straight.
- One at a time, touch each finger to your thumb to form a series of OK signs.
2. Wear a splint
Splints are used to help support and protect the joints of your hands. They may help with pain relief, especially if your arthritis impacts the base of your thumb. Your doctor can help you decide if a splint is right for you—and help you choose the one that works best for your symptoms.
3. Choose hand-friendly tools
If pain or stiffness makes daily tasks a challenge, look for scissors, kitchen utensils and pens that are designed for people with hand arthritis. They may have handles or other functions that make them easier to use. You can also get tools to help with opening jars or bottles.
4. Try heat or ice therapy
You can apply heat to your hands by using heat wraps or paraffin wax. You can also try using a cold pack for cold therapy. You can use heat or cold to see which helps the most.
5. Consider topical treatments
Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain from hand arthritis. They usually come in a cream that you can apply directly to your skin, where the arthritis affects you. And creams containing capsaicin or menthol can act as counter-irritants, relieving pain.
Remember: Always let your doctor know about any medicines or supplements you take.
Ask about additional options
If at-home options aren't controlling your symptoms, let your doctor know. It might be time to consider treatments such as injections or surgery. This quick guide can help you get the conversation started.
Sources
- AARP. "7 Hand Exercises to Prevent Arthritis." https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/exercises-prevent-arthritis.
- Arthritis Foundation. "Osteoarthritis of the Hands." https://www.arthritis.org/diseases/more-about/osteoarthritis-of-the-hands.
- Arthritis Foundation. "9 Exercises to Help Hand Arthritis." https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/other-activities/9-exercises-to-help-hand-arthritis.
- UpToDate. "Management of Hand Osteoarthritis." https://www.uptodate.com/contents/management-of-hand-osteoarthritis.