Practical Relief for Osteoarthritis & Trigger Finger
By Brian Kracyla, PT DPT
Our hands connect us to the world — helping us cook, write, garden, exercise, and care for the people we love. When hand pain sets in, even simple tasks can feel frustrating. Two of the most common hand conditions amongst older adults are osteoarthritis and trigger finger. The good news? With the right approach, both can be managed effectively. Here are ways to care for your hands.
What’s causing the pain?
Hand osteoarthritis develops as joint cartilage gradually wears down, leading to stiffness, swelling, and aching—often most noticeable in the morning or after activity. Trigger finger occurs when a finger tendon becomes irritated and thickened, causing catching, clicking, or locking during movement. While these conditions are common with age, pain and loss of function are not things you simply have to live with.
Movement is key—when done well
Gentle, intentional hand movement helps nourish joints, reduce stiffness, and improve circulation. Simple exercises like controlled finger bends, spreading the fingers apart, or lightly squeezing a soft ball can make a meaningful difference when performed correctly and consistently.
Use heat and cold to your advantage
Warmth is often helpful for stiff, achy hands—especially in the morning. Heat relaxes tissues and improves flexibility. Cold can be useful when hands feel swollen or irritated after activity. Physical therapists frequently help patients determine when and how to use each for the best relief.
Make daily tasks easier on your joints
Small adjustments can go a long way. Using larger-grip utensils, pens, and tools reduces stress on painful joints. Taking breaks during repetitive activities like cooking, knitting, or yard work allows tissues time to recover and prevents flare-ups.
Support when needed, strength when ready In some cases, short-term splinting can calm irritated tendons or joints—particularly with trigger finger. Just as important, we focus on restoring strength and coordination throughout the hand, wrist, and arm. As part of a comprehensive treatment plan, physical therapists will often look beyond the hand, addressing posture and shoulder strength to reduce unnecessary strain.
When to seek help
If hand pain, stiffness, or locking is interfering with your daily life, physical therapy can help. Early guidance often prevents symptoms from worsening and helps you stay independent and active.
Your hands play a vital role in your quality of life. With the right strategies, support, and expert guidance, it’s possible to reduce pain and keep doing the things you enjoy.
Penn’s Village helps older adults stay active, age in place in their own homes, and engage, connect, and thrive with others in our Village community. If you enjoy what you are reading, you can help ensure our continued viability and visibility by sharing our website and this post with others.
Brian Kracyla earned a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Drexel University in 2013. He co-founded Cloudline Physical Therapy in 2020, with a vision of redefining the patient-clinician dynamic by establishing a truly collaborative approach to care. With four Philadelphia locations, Cloudline Physical Therapy are experts in treating various musculoskeletal conditions and disorders in patients of all ages.Cloudline Physical Therapy is a long-standing business member of Penn’s Village and provides yearly free workshops to members. Their main office is 239 S. 10th Street, Philadelphia.