Ulnar drift, also known as ulnar deviation, is a deformity often associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here are some key points about ulnar drift based on the knowledge base:

- Description: Ulnar drift occurs when the joints in the wrist and hand shift, causing the fingers to bend toward the ulna (a long bone in the Show Full Answer

Ulnar drift, also known as ulnar deviation, is a deformity often associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Here are some key points about ulnar drift based on the knowledge base:

- Description: Ulnar drift occurs when the joints in the wrist and hand shift, causing the fingers to bend toward the ulna (a long bone in the forearm). This results in the fingers angling away from the thumb.
- Symptoms:
- Fingers slide sideways, making it hard to hold things.
- Warmth, swelling, or pain in the wrist, hand, and finger joints.
- Crepitus (grating sounds) or clicking in the wrist.
- Visible shifts in the joints, reduced grip strength, and limited range of motion.
- Causes: Chronic inflammation from RA can damage the knuckles (metacarpophalangeal joints) and lead to ulnar drift.
- Complications:
- Dysfunction in daily activities due to difficulty holding items.
- Potential nerve pain in the elbows due to abnormal hand positions.
- Management: It's important to inform your rheumatologist or healthcare provider if you experience new or worsened joint symptoms to manage discomfort and protect your joints from further damage.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the resources provided in the knowledge base.

 This AI-generated response comes from myRAteam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Ulnar Deviation Explained | myRAteam

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