Hand Problems Associated With Aging

Aging is a natural process that everyone goes through. Over time, bodies begin to experience changes that can affect daily life. One area where changes are especially obvious is the hands. The hands are an integral part of daily life and any decrease in their function can cause some major problems. Luckily there are treatment options for many hand problems that are associated with aging. Here are three common hand ailments that send many people to the doctor for treatment. 

Arthritis

Arthritis is essentially an inflammation of the joints that can cause pain and decreased function. Osteoarthritis often occurs with aging and is due to wear and tear. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that affects people of different ages. Both are often felt first in the small joints of the hands. The symptoms of arthritis in the hands include pain, swelling, cysts, warmth, and loose joints. A hand doctor can diagnose arthritis in the hands and recommend treatment options. There are plenty of options, both surgical and non-surgical. Non-surgical options include medication, heat treatments, steroid injections, and physical therapy. Surgical options include joint fusion and joint reconstruction. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Another common problem that can occur is something called carpal tunnel syndrome. This syndrome is most often developed by people who's activities or jobs involve repetitive finger use. Because of this, it's a syndrome that often develops and worsens with age. Symptoms include numbness and tingling in the fingers, difficulty handling small objects, and weakness in the hands. If any of these symptoms are present, it's time to visit the doctor. A hand doctor can diagnose the problem and treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Similarly to arthritis, there are both surgical and non-surgical treatment options available. Visiting a hand doctor or hand surgeon is the best way to alleviate symptoms and regain use of the hands.

Liver Spots And Wrinkles

One problem that many people notice is that hands age faster than the rest of the body. While the appearance of the hands may not be a priority for many, there are ways to improve the appearance of aging hands, and a visit to the hand doctor can help. Wrinkles can be treated with the same medical fillers used for the face. These fillers add volume back into the hands and can even encourage collagen production. Laser skin resurfacing is an option that can address liver spots and discoloration associated with sun damage.

Hands are one part of the body that are not immune to the passage of time. Medical problems such as arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome become more likely as the years go by. Cosmetic concerns, such as liver spots and wrinkles, also increase with age. The good news is that these conditions can be treated by qualified hand doctors across the country. 

For more information, visit http://www.towncenterorthopaedics.com or a similar website.

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