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Rheumatology2 papers

Rheumatoid arthritis - hand joint

Last edited: 4/10/2026

Overview

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that commonly affects the small joints of the hands, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and functional impairment 1. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent joint damage and preserve hand function.

Diagnosis

  • Assessment of hand function should be practical rather than mathematical, especially when evaluating surgical procedures 1.

    • Management

  • Management strategies aim to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and preserve or improve hand function 1.
  • Surgical procedures may be considered for rheumatoid hand deformities, with functional assessment being key to evaluating outcomes 1.

    • Special Populations

  • No information available in the provided abstracts.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Hand function assessment should be practical when evaluating surgical procedures for rheumatoid hand 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)

    • References

    1 Peskett EB. Hand assessment--a realistic reappraisal. The Hand 1977. link80006-5)

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Hand assessment--a realistic reappraisal. — Peskett EB The Hand (1977)
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