Wrist arthritis can severely affect your ability to perform daily tasks—from gripping a steering wheel to typing or lifting groceries. If you're experiencing wrist pain, stiffness, or swelling, it could be caused by one of several types of arthritis that affect the wrist joint.
At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, our hand and wrist specialists diagnose and treat all forms of wrist arthritis using advanced, personalized approaches. Read on to understand the types of wrist arthritis, what causes them, and how they can be treated.
Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, and in the wrist, this can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and loss of motion. The wrist is a complex joint made up of eight small bones and multiple articulations, which means that arthritis can occur in several places and in different forms.
Understanding the type of wrist arthritis is critical to choosing the best treatment. Below are the most common types:
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and typically occurs due to age-related wear and tear. The cartilage between bones gradually wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact, joint pain, and stiffness.
RA is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining (synovium), causing inflammation that can damage cartilage and bone.
This form develops after a previous wrist injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, that disrupts normal joint mechanics and accelerates cartilage breakdown.
Associated with the skin condition psoriasis, this inflammatory arthritis can affect the wrist and cause joint swelling and stiffness.
These types result from the accumulation of crystals in the joint. Gout involves uric acid crystals, while pseudogout involves calcium pyrophosphate crystals.
At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, your evaluation may include:
Many patients find relief from wrist arthritis with non-surgical care, especially in the early stages:
Avoid aggravating movements or using ergonomic tools to reduce strain on the wrist.
Immobilizing the wrist can reduce inflammation and prevent further wear.
NSAIDs like ibuprofen or prescription medications to relieve pain and swelling.
Injections directly into the wrist joint to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
Therapists can teach joint-protective techniques, offer exercises to maintain mobility, and fit customized splints.
When non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief, surgery may be considered. Our hand and wrist surgeons offer advanced surgical procedures customized to your arthritis type and severity.
Minimally invasive surgery to clean out inflamed tissue or loose cartilage fragments. Often used in early-stage arthritis.
Removes the first row of wrist bones to relieve pain while maintaining some motion. Ideal for localized osteoarthritis or post-traumatic arthritis.
Fuses only a portion of the wrist bones, preserving more motion than a full fusion.
Fuses the entire wrist for maximum pain relief. Typically used in severe arthritis when motion is less important than pain control.
An artificial joint replaces the damaged one to relieve pain and restore motion. Suitable for low-demand patients with severe arthritis.
While wrist arthritis is a chronic condition, many patients successfully manage it and return to their normal routines, especially with the right treatment plan and support.
At Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, our orthopedic specialists work closely with each patient to customize a treatment strategy based on your lifestyle, severity of arthritis, and personal goals.
If you're experiencing wrist pain, stiffness, or weakness, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow arthritis progression and preserve function.
Schedule an appointment today and get back to your best.