If you’re living with severe hand pain, stiffness, or loss of motion from arthritis, joint replacement may offer lasting relief. At Sharma Hand & Nerve, Dr. Ketan Sharma specializes in helping patients restore hand function and comfort through advanced surgical care tailored to their specific needs and goals.
What is joint replacement for hand arthritis?
Joint replacement for hand arthritis involves removing a damaged joint and replacing it with an artificial implant. This technique is typically used when arthritis has severely worn down the cartilage, resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The goal of joint replacement is to restore function, reduce chronic pain, and improve your ability to perform everyday tasks. Dr. Sharma uses advanced surgical methods to ensure precision and durability, helping you regain a higher quality of life through improved hand strength, flexibility, and joint mobility.
What are the signs and symptoms indicating you may need joint replacement for hand arthritis?
If arthritis in your hand is interfering with daily tasks or causing unrelenting pain, it may be time to consider surgical options. Joint replacement is typically recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief. Watch for these signs and symptoms that may indicate you’re a candidate for joint replacement:
- Persistent hand pain that limits activity
- Stiffness in the joints that worsens over time
- Swelling or tenderness around the knuckles or base of the thumb
- Visible deformity or joint misalignment
- Difficulty gripping, pinching, or performing fine motor tasks
- Lack of response to medications, splints, or therapy
What does joint replacement treat?
Joint replacement for hand arthritis is typically recommended for individuals experiencing advanced joint damage due to various forms of arthritis. Over time, arthritis can erode the cartilage that cushions the small joints in your hand, leading to persistent pain, stiffness, deformity, and limited function. When non-surgical treatments are no longer effective, joint replacement may be the best solution to restore motion and reduce pain.
What happens during joint replacement for hand arthritis?
During joint replacement surgery, Dr. Sharma begins by making a precise incision over the affected joint, commonly at the base of the fingers, thumb, or wrist. After carefully exposing the joint, he removes the damaged cartilage and a portion of the bone ends that are causing pain and restricting movement. The joint is then reshaped to accommodate an implant, which may be made of silicone, metal, or pyrocarbon, depending on your joint location and functional needs.
Next, Dr. Sharma inserts the implant into the newly prepared space. In some cases, he may use bone cement or other fixation techniques to secure it. The surrounding soft tissues are adjusted for proper alignment, and the incision is closed. The hand is then bandaged and supported with a splint to protect the new joint as it begins to heal.
What is recovery like after joint replacement for hand arthritis?
Recovery after joint replacement for hand arthritis involves a gradual return to movement, strength, and function. You may experience swelling, soreness, and stiffness for the first few weeks. A protective splint is typically worn to support healing, and downtime can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your procedure and the number of joints replaced. Physical therapy plays a critical role in regaining mobility. Most patients report significant pain relief and improved hand use within a few months.
To support a smooth recovery, you’ll need to:
- Wear your splint or brace exactly as instructed
- Keep your hand elevated to reduce swelling
- Avoid lifting or gripping with the affected hand early on
- Attend all follow-up appointments with Dr. Sharma
- Perform hand therapy exercises as prescribed
- Watch for signs of infection, such as redness or discharge
- Follow all wound care instructions carefully
Why Choose Dr. Sharma for Joint Replacement for Hand Arthritis?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon with advanced fellowship training in microsurgery and complex joint reconstruction. He specializes in treating patients with chronic pain and limited mobility caused by arthritis and nerve-related disorders. With a strong focus on surgical precision and long-term outcomes, Dr. Sharma tailors each joint replacement procedure to restore natural movement and improve your quality of life.
Patients choose Dr. Sharma for:
- Expertise in small joint replacement and reconstructive surgery
- Use of durable, high-performance implants tailored to your needs
- Focus on restoring hand function, not just relieving pain
- Proven track record of excellent surgical outcomes
- Compassionate care and clear communication throughout recovery
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sharma to determine if joint replacement is right for you.
