Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the joints that often leads to inflammation, pain, and progressive damage.

One common concern of people with RA is joint deformities, such as curvature and twisting of the fingers.

If you are considering using compression gloves in managing arthritis, you might be wondering if they can prevent any of these changes to joints.

How Do Compression Gloves Help in Arthritis Management?

Compression gloves help in providing relief from arthritis pain and discomfort. Indeed, compression is recommended by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) as a non-surgical joint support option. They work by placing gentle pressure on the hands, which can assist in:

1. Reducing swelling: One of the main signs of RA is inflammation, and compression can help prevent fluid buildup in the joints.
2. Relieving pain: Many people find that wearing compression gloves lessens discomfort, especially during periods of increased stiffness.
3. Improving circulation: Better blood flow can support joint function and help ease symptoms.
4. Maintaining flexibility: Keeping joints moving is essential for managing arthritis, and compression gloves may help by reducing stiffness and supporting mobility.

Do Compression Gloves Prevent Joint Damage?

Compression gloves are extremely helpful for symptom relief.

However, they do not prevent or reverse joint deterioration. Sadly, there is no known cure for RA at present. What compression gloves can do is help delay functional loss and improve overall hand function.

The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) emphasizes a comprehensive approach to RA management. In addition to using compression gloves, individuals with RA should consider medications, physical therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and splints and braces.

Understanding the Four Stages of Rheumatoid Arthritis Progression

To understand why joint deformities occur, it’s crucial to understand how RA progresses over time. RA develops in four stages, each bringing different challenges:

Stage 1: Early RA

In early-stage RA, inflammation in the tissue around your joints starts. It is often characterized by some joint pain, stiffness and discomfort. Typically, x-rays don’t show joint damage at all in this early stage.

Stage 2: Moderate RA

At moderate stage RA, inflammation starts to damage the tissue that cushions the bones called cartilage. Many people experience more prominent pain, swelling, and stiffness. Mobility range may begin to decrease and joint damage may start to become visible on imaging tests.

Stage 3: Severe RA

Once RA progresses to the third stage, the damage now extends to the bones leading to more intense pain and impaired movement. This is where deformities, such as fingers twisting or curving begin to appear. A patient with severe RA may find buttoning their shirt or holding a pen more difficult.

Stage 4: End-Stage RA

At stage four, there’s no longer joint inflammation, however by this point, the joints may be significantly damaged or fused (ankylosis) and no longer work as they should. Mobility is severely impaired and surgery may be the last resort.

Can You Delay RA Progression?

RA is a progressive condition but early intervention can slow down joint deterioration. It’s important to identify it early to prevent severe joint damage in most cases.

Taking the right medication and adopting healthier habits can make a difference.

Additionally, using compression gloves as part of your comprehensive treatment plan may help maintain finger mobility and reduce discomfort, making day-to-day tasks more manageable.

Conclusion

If you’re considering compression gloves for RA, they can be an excellent addition to your pain management strategy. They won’t cure arthritis or prevent all joint deformities, but they can provide much-needed relief, reduce swelling, and support hand function.