Treatment With Splints and Braces

People with both inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis often use compression gloves. The evidence is currently more anecdotal than research-based. “Many patients with arthritis swear by their compression gloves and I would personally attest to that,” Wilmarth says, “I do not wear mine all the time, but when I need them, they are extremely helpful.”

For people who have hand and finger pain and swelling, these gloves can relieve symptoms so that performing everyday activities is easier. Others prefer to wear them at night. It’s important to ensure that you have the proper fit, not too loose, nor too tight. Some people have more than one pair depending on the season, their swelling, and the size of their fingers at the time. In addition, you may want specific gloves for the kitchen, for computer work, and for bed. It’s very individualized. Wilmarth is partial to brands that have open fingertips for better dexterity.

Make sure to check with your doctor or physical or occupational therapist if you have any questions.

Compression socks are another item to consider. Compression socks are intended to promote better blood circulation in the legs and reduce swelling. Generally, there are two types of compression socks: graduated and anti-embolism stockings. Graduated socks are tighter around the ankle and get looser as they get higher up the calf or leg, notes the Cleveland Clinic. Anti-embolism stockings are more specific, often prescribed to prevent blood clots, often after surgery or if someone is confined to bed.

Overusing compression socks and wearing them incorrectly can irritate your skin, possibly creating conditions where an infection can start. And if you have peripheral artery disease you shouldn’t use them. As always, consult your doctor with any questions.

Other Ways to Rest Your Joints

You don’t always have to use splints or braces to rest your joints. Wilmarth also recommends the following strategies:

• Use your larger, stronger muscles whenever possible.
• Practice good posture and body mechanics.
• Respect your fatigue; balance your activity with rest periods.
• Consciously stop every 15 to 30 minutes in your day to make sure you rest your affected joint in a neutral position. Even if it’s only for 5 to 10 seconds. Make sure it’s completely relaxed. “People think they are relaxed, but their muscles are often still tense. Ideally, you want to make a conscious effort for 15 to 30 seconds (anything can help though) to let your entire body go. Take deep breaths. Do a mini meditation,” she says.
• Reduce the effort and force that you use with activities.
• Utilize tools and assistive devices that are made to ease the burden of arthritis.
• Do very gentle repetitions of range of motions. For hands, open and close them, Wilmarth explains, “This lubricates joints and gets the blood flowing.”
• Work in your pain-free range of motion. Avoid your positions of deformity.
• Try paraffin baths, which use a type of warm wax to ease joint pain for the hands.

RELATED: Top Assistive Devices for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Additional reporting by Deborah Shapiro.