What to do about hand and foot pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis
Nov 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, hand and foot pain in rheumatoid arthritis may be caused by factors such as joint exposure to cold, overexertion, synovial inflammation, articular cartilage damage, or joint deformity. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through general management, medication, and other treatments. Daily routines should include maintaining regular sleep patterns, avoiding staying up late, and consuming an appropriate amount of calcium and protein in the diet.
In general, hand and foot pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be caused by factors such as joint exposure to cold, overexertion, synovial inflammation, articular cartilage damage, or joint deformities. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms under a doctor's guidance through non-pharmacological management, medications, and other treatments. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Joint exposure to cold: Prolonged exposure of hand and foot joints to cold environments causes blood vessel constriction, impairing circulation and exacerbating inflammatory stimulation, leading to pain. Keep hands and feet warm; wear gloves and thick socks when going outdoors. Soaking hands and feet in warm water during pain episodes can promote local blood circulation and relieve discomfort.
2. Overexertion: Frequent use of hand and foot joints for physical labor or activities increases joint stress and may trigger pain. Reduce weight-bearing activities involving the hands and feet, avoid prolonged heavy lifting or household chores, rest appropriately during painful periods, and gradually resume light activities after symptoms subside.
3. Synovial inflammation: Rheumatoid arthritis causes synovial hyperplasia and congestion, releasing inflammatory mediators that irritate the joints, resulting in pain and swelling in the hands and feet. Patients should take medications such as methotrexate tablets, leflunomide tablets, or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets as prescribed to suppress inflammatory responses and reduce pain.
4. Articular cartilage damage: Long-term inflammation erodes the articular cartilage in hand and foot joints, increasing friction between joint surfaces and causing pain along with restricted movement. Under medical supervision, patients may take glucosamine sulfate capsules, glucosamine hydrochloride tablets, or celecoxib capsules to nourish cartilage and alleviate pain. At the same time, avoid strenuous activities to protect the joints.
5. Joint deformity: Uncontrolled disease over a long period can lead to joint deformities in the hands and feet, causing structural abnormalities and persistent pain that significantly impacts daily life. When medication proves ineffective, joint replacement surgery may be considered to replace damaged joint components, restore joint function, and reduce pain.
Maintain a regular lifestyle and avoid staying up late. Include adequate calcium and protein in the diet to strengthen bones and muscles. Perform gentle joint rehabilitation exercises such as finger stretching and ankle rotations to maintain joint mobility, reduce the frequency of pain episodes, and support overall hand and foot joint health.
