This condition is extremely common in the hand and wrist. Arthritis may be caused by severe trauma or diseases, like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Patients suffering from arthritis lose cartilage between their joints. Cartilage is a tough connective tissue that covers bones, providing a smooth surface between them. If cartilage becomes worn, bone movement can become difficult and painful. Depending on the situation, treatment options may include medicine, injections, splinting and surgery. Surgical procedures vary greatly. However, common ones are joint replacement and fusion. The latter involves fusing a joint so movement does not occur there.