DR. DANIEL AEDO MARTÍN · MADRID

Finger arthritis and joint replacement

Balancing movement and stability in a painful finger joint.

What it is

Finger joints may deteriorate through osteoarthritis, inflammatory disease or injury. Replacement is considered in selected cases.

Symptoms

Pain, stiffness and deformity may affect writing, dressing and grip. Treatment addresses function rather than appearance alone.

Assessment

The specific joint, ligaments, tendons and bone quality are assessed. Indications differ across joints and fingers.

Non-surgical treatment

Activity changes, splints and therapy may help. Options are reviewed if limiting pain persists.

When surgery is considered

Replacement may preserve motion in selected joints. Fusion provides stability by fixing the joint. Risks include stiffness, instability, implant wear or breakage.

Recovery and follow-up

Protection and therapy depend on joint and implant. The aim is a more useful hand, not a promise of normal movement.

Frequently asked questions

Is the whole finger bone replaced?

Usually the joint is treated, not the whole finger.

Can every finger have an implant?

Suitability depends on the joint, stability and loading.

Replacement or fusion?

We consider useful motion and required stability.

Will every deformity be corrected?

Not always. Tendons, ligaments and previous stiffness limit correction.

Will I need hand therapy?

It often helps protect the implant and restore useful motion.

Can an implant break?

Yes. Breakage, wear and possible revision are discussed before surgery.