This tends to be gradual and progressive, Dr. Kitay said. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease that is less common than osteoarthritis, often results in more dramatic symptoms of severe swelling pain and functional loss. “Just like stretching before and after your run, there are stretching exercises you can do with your hands and fingers before and after your normal daily activities,” Dr. Kitay said. Using a hand splint can stabilize your joint and help reduce pain and swelling. “We don’t have a cure for arthritis, but we do have ways to help people deal with the pain,” Dr. Kitay said.