Hand and Wrist Arthritis Surgery | MedStar Health

Browse this page

A team performs arthroscopic surgery in an operating room.

We offer a range of surgical options to treat arthritis in the hand and wrist. Our experienced hand and wrist surgeons offer you the comprehensive care you need for an effective procedure and a successful recovery. Our surgeons are fellowship-trained in hand and wrist surgery and specialize exclusively in caring for upper extremity conditions.

What is hand and wrist arthritis surgery?

Arthritis in the hand or wrist can cause serious hand pain, weakness, and hand deformities that interfere with your everyday tasks. If conservative treatments do not improve your hand or wrist arthritis condition, surgery may be a good option. There are several hand and wrist arthritis surgeries that we offer, all of which can offer hand and wrist pain relief, correct deformities, and improve hand function.

What does surgery involve?

One of our experienced hand and wrist surgeons will work closely with you and your family to determine the best surgical approach for your needs. Depending on the condition being treated, the exact surgical technique used for arthritis surgery will vary, but may include one or more of the following, all of which may be done with wide-awake hand surgery:

  • Thumb arthritis surgery
  • Joint replacement surgery for the small joints of the hand
  • Fusion surgery

What does hand and wrist arthritis surgery recovery involve?

After surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care during your recovery. Depending on your specific arthritic condition and personal needs, your physician may recommend one or more of the following:

  • Ice
  • Rest
  • Physical therapy
  • Limiting arm, wrist, and hand movement
  • Cast, bandaging, or sling

Why is hand and wrist arthritis surgery performed?

Arthritis can cause a number of painful and debilitating problems with the hands and wrists. When nonsurgical options (such as bracing, injections, and activity modification) fail to control your pain, surgery may be suggested to improve your pain and function. Some of the most common arthritis-related conditions that can be treated using hand and wrist surgery include:

What are the benefits of surgery?

The benefits of visiting our hospitals for your wrist or hand surgery for osteoarthritis include:

  • Hand and wrist pain relief
  • Improved dexterity following recovery
  • Ability to return to normal activities following rehabilitation
  • Improved range of motion in the hand and wrist

Our providers

Location: Change location Enter your location

Hand Surgery

Show Next 8 of Show All Hand Surgery

Related services

Arthroscopy (Hand and Wrist)


Emergency Medicine


Hand and Wrist Arthritis


Orthopedics


Pharmacy


Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation


Primary Care


Rheumatology, Immunology, and Allergy