Rheumatoid Arthritis is a progressive condition that usually starts in small joints, such as the fingers and toes, and in medium joints, including the wrist, before spreading to larger joints. While symptoms are mild initially, they can become very painful.

There are four types of arthritis that can affect the wrist:

1. osteoarthritis (OA): develops overtime as cartilage naturally wears down

2. rheumatoid arthritis (RA): an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own tissues

3. psoriatic arthritis: an inflammatory skin and joint disease

4. posttraumatic arthritis (PA): occurs after an injury to the wrist

Not everyone with arthritis will have the same symptoms. Development of symptoms depends on the type of arthritis and how severe your condition is. Rheumatoid Arthritis tends to produce long-lasting stiffness, swelling, and redness of the joints. People with Rheumatoid Arthritis may also feel fatigue, general discomfort, and lack of appetite.