When I restrict the blood flow to my extremities, I have had problems. My Whirlpool tub has been my Best Friend since my disease advanced to stage 3. It amazes me how resilient I can be when I’m in “Flare Up mode “- I’ll keep seeking more natural remedies (Diet is a Big factor in finding a Happy balance) Light, Love & Hope from my Backwoods in the Black Hills

Reducing stress has been the most helpful thing I’ve done to date. I’ve learned that nothing is more important than addressing this disease. Praying for Everyone to get into the “Zone” and relax. Light, Love & Hope from Wyoming

If you take meds like blood thinners, nsaids, ibuprophen, arnica cream, or alleve- you will bleed out (bruise) in your skin easier. Or of your brace is tight it can affect your circulation. Braces are meant to stabilize NOT to correct or straighten your joints. If you see a hand specialist- they can try therapy or possibly surgery and have other methods that may help.
My husband and I wear a thumb-wrist brace each hand every night to support and stabilize our joints and protect them- not to correct or adjust them. We put them on gently without pulling straps or tightening anything. Only as they naturally lay. We don't wear them except during sleep. As per our specialists instructions.
Be careful and see a hand specialist for guidance. Ask if physical therapy would help you and or any injections, special graded or titrated splints or therapies.
I wish you the best and hope this helps.

Ps. My hands and toes are changing too. I hate it. I have difficulties playing piano anymore. But I still try to do my best.
Mostly, I get a little shy around ppl bc ofknots and they are just more crookedy than I'd like. Finger and toe pads peeling. It's always something.

If you make the brace to tight it can cause you to bruised. I think it have alot to do with inflammation that cause us to bruised easily 😅. Take ❤.

Hi Carrie,
When I was seeing a PT-hand specialist, she recommended plastic finger braces, to support my swan necks, which would strengthen my fingers. I found that after 2-3 hrs the braces would get warm and molotov my fingers, causing swelling. So I would remove them. They also make the finger braces in metal, I have not tried those. I have found that Arnica gel, reduces swelling and helps bruises to heal faster. Each of us is different, for sure. If you can, hand therapy may help, also warm wax soaks are good.
I hope this helps.