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| Swan-neck Deformity related to Rheumatoid Arthritis |
According to the research, about 50% patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have swan-neck deformity. Swan-neck deformity is closely related to rheumatoid arthritis. Correct treatment of swan-neck deformity is to treat rheumatoid arthritis first.
Swan-neck deformity will have some influence to patients’ joints and skin. The base of the finger and the outermost joint bend, while the middle joint straightens. Over time, this imbalance of the finger joints can result in the crooked swan-neck position. In addition, true swan-neck deformity does not occur in the thumb. As for the treatment of swan-neck, we advice TCM treatment such as Hou’s Therapy.
A swan-neck deformity can make it almost impossible to bend the affected finger normally; it can make it difficult to button shirts, grip a glass, or pinch with the fingers. By examining the hand and fingers, a rheumatologist can diagnose a swan-neck deformity and determine appropriate treatment, which may include:
Finger splints or ring splints and surgery to realign the joints or fuse the joints for better function are two treatment of swan-neck deformity. However, we know rheumatoid arthritis is the cause of swan-neck, we need to take systemic treatment for RA. This is the root to treat swan-neck deformity but not only to relive it by medication. To learn more about Hou’s Therapy, you can leave us email or contact online service.
