Hand Arthritis and Joint Inflammation in Kennewick, WA
Hand Arthritis and Joint Inflammation with Dr. David Fisher, MA FAAOS
When it comes to the health of your hands, wrists, and fingers, specialized care matters. At Benton Franklin Orthopedic Associates, we are proud to feature Dr. David W. Fischer, MD, FAAOS, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with extensive expertise in hand and upper extremity conditions. His mission is simple: to help patients regain comfort, mobility, and confidence in their daily lives. Hand arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and disability in adults. It occurs when the protective cartilage in your joints wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Over time, this can make even simple tasks—like gripping a coffee mug or buttoning a shirt—difficult.
Common Joints Affected by Arthritis:
✅ Carpometacarpal (CMC) Joint:
Located at the base of the thumb, this joint is frequently affected by osteoarthritis. Pain here can make pinching and gripping objects challenging.
✅ Metacarpophalangeal (MP) Joint:
These are your knuckles, essential for gripping and hand movement. Arthritis in these joints can cause swelling and deformity.
✅ Interphalangeal (IP) Joint:
Found in your fingers, these joints are crucial for fine motor skills like writing or typing. Arthritis here often leads to stiffness and reduced dexterity.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you experience any of the following, it may be time to consult a specialist:
- Persistent pain and stiffness in the hand or fingers
- Swelling and tenderness around the joints
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty performing everyday tasks like writing, opening jars, or holding objects
Treatment Options with Dr. Fischer
Dr. Fischer provides a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to managing hand arthritis and joint inflammation. Treatment plans are tailored to your unique needs.
Non-Surgical Options
- Splinting and bracing to support joints and reduce strain
- Activity modification to prevent further damage
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation and improve mobility
Surgical Solutions
For advanced cases, Dr. Fischer offers surgical interventions such as:
- Joint reconstruction or fusion
- Thumb CMC arthroplasty
- Minimally invasive procedures for faster recovery
His goal is to restore function, reduce pain, and help you return to the activities you love.
While Dr. Fischer enjoys all aspects of general orthopedic surgery, his true passion lies in the intricate anatomy and function of the hand and wrist. “The human hand and wrist fascinate me most with their interactive parts and complex movements,” he shares. “It’s gratifying to help restore a patient’s ability to use their hands for daily activities, including work.” His patient-first philosophy is simple: “I like to think of my patients as part of my family, keeping their best interest foremost.”
Dr. Fischer is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Hand Surgery. He completed his residency and medical degree at Loma Linda University and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery and a member of the American Association of Hand Surgeons. Outside the operating room, Dr. Fischer enjoys cycling and hobby farming, growing juice grapes and hay. His lifelong fascination with anatomy and surgery began in childhood, spending time in his father’s medical practice and observing hand surgeries during medical school.
Dr. Fischer specializes in the following orthopedic procedures and treatments: Hand Surgery, Elbow Surgery, Sports Medicine and Clinical Grade PRP/Regenerative Injection options.
If you are experiencing pain in your fingers or hand, call us at (509) 586-2828 or visit our Kennewick office to schedule your consultation. Feel free to visit up on the web at www.bfoaonline.com
