Arthritis changes finger joints in ways that make standard ring sizing more complicated. Swelling, bone changes, and reduced grip strength all affect how a ring fits and whether it can be put on and taken off comfortably. For many people with arthritis, the ring size measured at the knuckle (the widest point when putting the ring on) is much larger than the size at the base of the finger (where the ring rests).
This guide covers how different types of arthritis affect ring sizing, how to measure accurately when your finger shape is uneven, and which ring styles work best for arthritic hands.
How Arthritis Changes Finger Shape
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis both cause joint changes, but in different patterns. Osteoarthritis typically causes bony nodules (called Heberden's nodes or Bouchard's nodes) at the finger joints, which enlarge the knuckle without necessarily enlarging the base of the finger. This creates a situation where a ring sized to fit over the enlarged knuckle will be too loose at the base.
Rheumatoid arthritis tends to cause soft tissue swelling that can be more generalized across the whole finger, and it is often more variable: fingers may be more swollen in the morning and less so later in the day. For RA, measuring at peak swelling gives the most useful size for ensuring the ring can always come off.
How to Measure Ring Size With Arthritis
The key challenge with arthritic hands is that the knuckle is often wider than the base of the finger. Standard ring sizing measures at the base, but if the knuckle is significantly larger, a ring that fits at the base will not go over the knuckle.
To find the right size, measure both the base of your finger and the widest point of your knuckle. If the knuckle measurement is more than half a US size larger than the base measurement, look for rings with a hinged or split shank design, which allows the ring to open slightly when putting it on and then close at the base.
- Measure your finger at the base first, then at the knuckle.
- Note both measurements in mm and find each on a ring size chart.
- The difference between the two tells you how much of a sizing challenge you face.
- If the difference is more than 2mm in inner diameter, look for arthritis-specific or adjustable ring styles.
Ring Styles That Work Best for Arthritic Fingers
Hinged shank rings (also called arthritis rings or comfort rings) open at the bottom so you can place them on the finger and close them at the base. These are specifically designed for people with enlarged knuckles and thin bases. They are available in most metals and can be made with gemstones as well.
Adjustable rings and wide-shank rings that are slightly springy can also work for mild arthritis. Silicone rings are a good option for everyday wear because they stretch over the knuckle and conform to the finger shape. See our silicone ring size guide and our guide to adjustable ring sizing for more on these options.
Managing Ring Size Changes as Arthritis Progresses
Arthritis is a progressive condition, which means finger size and shape can continue to change over time. It is worth re-measuring every year or two if you have an active arthritic condition, and being prepared to resize or replace rings that no longer fit.
For a broader discussion of how finger size changes over time with age and health conditions, see does ring size change with age or weight. For measuring at home in a way that captures swelling patterns accurately, use the methods described in how to measure ring size at home.
FAQ
Can I still wear rings if I have arthritis?
Yes. Hinged shank rings, adjustable rings, and silicone rings are all designed to work with arthritic fingers. The key is choosing a style that can go over an enlarged knuckle while still fitting at the base.
Should I measure ring size at the knuckle or the base?
Measure both if you have arthritis. The ring needs to pass over the knuckle (measure at the widest joint point) but rest at the base (measure at the base of the finger). If the two measurements differ significantly, choose a style designed for arthritis.
Does arthritis make ring size larger?
It depends on the type. Osteoarthritis can create bony enlargements at the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis causes soft tissue swelling. Both can increase the size you need to fit over the knuckle, but the base of the finger may stay similar or even become thinner in some cases.
What type of ring is best for arthritic hands?
A hinged or split shank ring (sometimes called an arthritis ring) is designed specifically for this situation. It opens at the bottom, allows the ring to go over an enlarged knuckle, and closes snugly at the base.
