Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation in the joints. One of the first and most noticeable symptoms for many people is a loss of grip strength. That means things like opening jars, turning doorknobs, or holding a pen can suddenly become difficult. Understanding why this happens can help you find ways…
If you’ve been dealing with RA and carpal tunnel syndrome at the same time, trust me—you’re not alone. I’ve seen this combo more times than I can count in my practice as a rheumatology nurse practitioner. It’s like a one-two punch to your hands, and for patients, it can be incredibly frustrating. Carpal tunnel symptoms…
If you’ve ever woken up with stiff fingers and thought, “Hmm, must’ve slept weird,” you’re not alone. But if that stiffness starts lingering a little too long—or if your rings don’t fit like they used to—it might be time to look closer. One of the most early signs of RA in hands isn’t a dramatic…
If you’ve been dealing with rheumatoid arthritis for a while, like many of my patients—and honestly, like some of the nurses I’ve worked with too—you probably already know how something as simple as opening a jar or typing can turn into a full-on battle. One of the game-changers I often recommend to patients is finding…
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be a challenging condition to live with, especially when it impacts the hands. As a Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how debilitating hand pain can be for people with RA. Whether you’re struggling to grip a cup of coffee or experiencing persistent joint stiffness, managing hand pain is essential for…
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more than just a condition that affects the joints—it’s a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause widespread discomfort and long-term disability. One of the most common and noticeable symptoms is hand swelling. As a Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with patients dealing with RA, and I’ve…
Are you feeling pain, stiffness, or swelling in your hands and wondering if it could be rheumatoid arthritis (RA)? You’re not alone. RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that often begins in the hands, causing discomfort and difficulty with daily tasks. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in…