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Hand/Wrist Osteoarthritis

Hand/Wrist Osteoarthritis Doctor

I am a firm believer in a trial of conservative (non-operative) care prior to proceeding with a surgical procedure. There are a wide range of treatment options for hand/wrist osteoarthritis, both surgical and non-surgical, that can reduce pain and restore movement.

Mr. Hawkins from Newport Beach, who was in a great deal of pain from OA in his wrist, says “It’s amazing … The pain is gone, the range of motion is coming back …”

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When the hand or wrist are affected by arthritis, normal daily activities can become difficult. Dr. Cohen has helped many patients affected by hand/wrist osteoarthritis. Click on each category below to review the information. Feel free to contact us to be seen by Dr. Cohen. We are easily accessible to patients off the 101 freeway in Westlake Village.

There are many kinds of arthritis, but osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of pain and stiffness in the hand and wrist. It is a progressive condition, sometimes called “wear and tear” arthritis. Healthy joints have a smooth gliding surface provided by cartilage that covers the ends of the bones; this surface is lubricated by a slippery fluid called synovium. When osteoarthritis sets in, the cartilage begins to wear away, leaving the bare bones to rub against each other.

Pain and stiffness are the most common symptoms of hand/wrist OA. Pain is frequently worse in the morning, and may feel like a dull ache or burning sensation. Gripping and grasping become more difficult, interfering with daily activities. There might also be swelling and warmth in the affected joints, caused by the body’s inflammation response. Occasionally, there is a sensation of grating or grinding.

Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination of the hand, which may include x-rays and other diagnostic tests. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and how long it has persisted. Fortunately, there are a wide range of treatment options available, both non-surgical and surgical, that can reduce pain and restore movement.

Although renowned for his surgical ability, Dr. Cohen is a firm believer in using conservative, non-operative treatment plans before considering surgery. For hand/wrist OA, these might include medication, splinting, hand therapy, ergonomic modifications, and lifestyle changes.

Read, watch, and listen (audio quotes), to what just a few of Dr. Cohen's patients have said:

(Note: be sure to click on the "stop" button before starting a new audio comment)

Mr. Hawkins from Newport Beach was in a great deal of pain from OA in his wrist:


Debbie from Newbury Park had extreme pain from arthritis in her left index finger. She had surgery with Dr. Cohen and it was a huge success. She no longer has pain in her hand and feels the surgery was the best thing she could have done. She thanks Dr. Cohen for doing the surgery for her and is considering surgery on other fingers also. Listen to her experience below:


Rhonda from Thousand Oaks, CA had surgery on both of her hands to deal with arthritis. With the surgery, Dr. Cohen has relieved all the pain in both hands and his care was exceptional. Her experience with Dr. Cohen dates back many years when she first met him in the emergency room and after meeting him she would never go to any other hand doctor. Hear her experience below:


Patty from Ventura was suffering from arthritis in her hands that was hindering her very active life. After seeing Dr. Cohen, she is thrilled that she is “getting her life back”. She found him to be very innovative and willing to consider all the alternatives. Listen to her story:


(view 100's of related testimonials here)

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