Arthritis in your fingers often starts with subtle changes. At first, you might wake up with sore or stiff fingers, notice discomfort after using your fingers a lot, or experience changes in grip strength.

These early symptoms can be easy to ignore or overlook, but seeking prompt and early treatment can help you manage discomfort and protect your joints from further damage.

Symptoms of finger arthritis can include:

These symptoms may come and go but can become more frequent or intense over time. With these symptoms, you may notice more difficulty with tasks like opening a jar.

The most likely causes of arthritis symptoms that affect your fingers include:

Risk factors and triggers for arthritis can include:

While there is no cure for arthritis, early treatment can help relieve symptoms, slow progression, and protect joint function.

Here are some things you can do at home to stay more comfortable and support your joint function:

Some supplements may help your joints feel better, though research is mixed.

Chondroitin and are the most popular and may help protect your joints over time. Omega-3 fish oils might ease stiffness, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger and turmeric are natural options that may calm swelling in your joints.

Before trying any supplement, it's important to check with a healthcare provider to make sure it's safe for you.

Topical (applied to the skin) products contain ingredients that help ease discomfort. These treatments fall into three main categories: counterirritants, anti-inflammatories, and numbing agents.

Counterirritants create a warming or cooling sensation that distracts your brain from deeper joint pain. Common examples include:

Anti-inflammatories reduce swelling and irritation in your joints, helping to ease pain at its source. Examples include:

Numbing agents temporarily block nerve signals near your skin's surface to help reduce pain. Examples include:

These over-the-counter (OTC) medications that you take by mouth can help reduce pain and swelling throughout your body:

If OTC options don't provide relief, a healthcare provider may recommend prescription treatments. Treatment options vary depending on the type of arthritis you have. Some may be taken by mouth or given as injections.

If your arthritis is caused by inflammation, prescription medications may include:

Your healthcare provider may refer you to specialists who can help manage arthritis symptoms and support daily function. Specialists who may offer supportive therapies include:

A healthcare provider may recommend surgery if your joints become deformed or painful and other treatments no longer help. Surgical options include joint fusion or replacement, which can help relieve pain and improve function.

If finger pain, swelling, or stiffness lingers for more than a few days or keeps coming back, consider checking in with a healthcare provider. Early treatment can make a big difference in protecting your joints.

Reach out to your healthcare provider if you notice:

Early arthritis in your fingers often starts with stiffness, aching, or swelling. Common causes include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and past injuries. Recognizing symptoms early and starting treatment promptly can help protect your joints and reduce long-term discomfort.

Treatment options include home care, supportive therapies, medications, and, in some cases, surgery. These approaches can help you stay active, independent, and more comfortable.