How to get rid from this pain' - #9425

Dear Harleen, I understand your concern about your mother’s arthritis and the recent issue with her right hand’s last two fingers not working properly. While arthritis is often a chronic condition requiring lifelong management, new symptoms like finger dysfunction may indicate additional complications that need further evaluation. Possible Causes of Finger Dysfunction 1. Arthritis Progression – If your mother has rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, joint deformities or inflammation can affect finger movement. 2. Nerve Compression (Ulnar Nerve Palsy) – The last two fingers are controlled by the ulnar nerve, which can get compressed at the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome) or wrist (Guyon’s canal syndrome), causing weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving these fingers. 3. Tendon or Ligament Issues – Chronic arthritis can lead to tendon damage, making it hard to move certain fingers. 4. Cervical Spine Issues – If there’s nerve compression in the neck (cervical spondylosis), it can lead to hand weakness or numbness. Next Steps & What You Can Do 1. Consult a Rheumatologist & Neurologist – Since this symptom is new, it’s important to get a detailed neurological and musculoskeletal examination to determine if it’s nerve-related or due to arthritis progression. 2. Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) & Electromyography (EMG) – These tests will help check if the ulnar nerve is compressed or damaged. 3. X-ray or MRI (Hand/Wrist & Cervical Spine) – To assess joint damage, nerve compression, or other structural issues. 4. Physiotherapy & Hand Exercises – A physiotherapist can guide her with nerve gliding exercises and joint mobility exercises to prevent further stiffness. 5. Bracing or Splinting – If it’s a nerve compression issue, wearing a soft elbow brace at night (for cubital tunnel syndrome) or a wrist splint might help relieve symptoms. 6. Medication Review – If she is on long-term arthritis medications (NSAIDs, DMARDs, or steroids), a review of her treatment plan may be needed to adjust for any new complications. Since nerve-related issues can worsen over time, I strongly recommend seeing a neurologist or orthopedic specialist soon for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can prevent permanent nerve damage and help improve function in her fingers.