Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) causes joint inflammatory pain that occurs in conjunction with skin inflammation and scaly skin patches or psoriasis. Finger and toe joints are commonly affected by the condition. Oftentimes, PsA also causes hand stiffness.
Simple stretches and exercises can help reduce stiffness. Try the following three exercises to keep your fingers limber, decrease joint pain, and increase your productivity and independence.
Flexing and bending your fingers is an example of a range-of-motion (ROM) exercise. ROM exercises keep your joints moving fluidly and preserve flexibility.
Begin by bending your fingers down and back up. Keep your wrist straight. Steady your arm by placing your bent elbow on a table or armrest.
After completing several repetitions of finger bends, slowly make a fist with your hand and then gently open your hand. Then flex your fingers upward as if you were going to catch a baseball.
Remember to work slowly and smoothly: The inflammation in the small joints of your fingers may make flexing and bending difficult at times.
Try warming your hands before beginning.
This exercise focuses on making slow and deliberate movements. Don't worry if your PsA symptoms hinder your movement. Just move your finger as far as possible.
Begin with your palm facing up and your fingers extended fully. Bend your thumb across your palm until you touch the base of your pinky finger. Gently stretch your thumb as far as you can. Then bring your thumb back to its original position.
Continue to touch the rest of your fingers in succession. Remember to return to the neutral position (with your palm facing up) between each finger touch.
This stretch works to preserve joint function and strengthen the muscles of your hand. The lateral movements achieved through finger sliding can help prevent hand stiffness during a PsA flare-up.
Place your palm down on a table. Your fingers should be spread apart. Slide your index finger toward your thumb without bending it. Continue the exercise by sliding each of your fingers toward your thumb. When you've finished return your fingers to the starting position.
PsA can be controlled through medication, lifestyle changes, and regular exercise. Of course, symptoms vary from person to person. Because of this, the intensity and frequency of hand exercises that are appropriate for you might not be the most effective way to combat another person's pain or hand stiffness. Talk with your doctor to discuss your treatment plan and determine which exercises are right for you.