Wedding Rings And Arthritis: Is There A Connection?

While wedding rings are a symbol of love and commitment, they can become difficult to wear over time due to arthritis. The condition causes swelling and enlargement of the knuckles, making it challenging to put on and remove rings. Some individuals may even experience nerve sensitivity, making it painful to force the ring over the knuckle. This issue is relatively common, affecting over 25% of individuals. However, innovative solutions are available to help those with arthritis continue wearing their wedding rings comfortably. These solutions include adjustable shanks, hinged rings, and remodelling services offered by specialised jewellers.

Ring adjustments for arthritic fingers

Although arthritis can make wearing a wedding ring uncomfortable, there are several ring adjustments available to ensure you can continue to wear your ring.

One option is to retrofit an existing ring with an adjustable shank, which can be opened and closed with a hinge. This allows the wearer to avoid the pain of forcing the ring over the enlarged knuckle. The hinge can be opened with a small recessed button, which can be pushed with the tip of a ballpoint pen. This type of adjustment is offered by Superfit™ and ForeverFit, and can be custom-made in gold or platinum.

Another option is to reshape the ring shank into a square or trapezoid shape to prevent spinning. This method is labour-intensive and may not be suitable for rings with gemstones as the setting will need to be reconfigured.

If you are looking for a more cost-effective solution, you can try resizing your ring. However, resizing may not be a long-term solution as the ring may become loose and spin on the finger.

It is also possible to purchase flexible silicone rings, which are a cheaper alternative to adjustable metal rings. However, these may lack the elegance and longevity of a traditional wedding band.

When choosing a ring adjustment, it is important to consider your level of nerve sensitivity, as some adjustments may be uncomfortable for those with arthritis-related nerve sensitivity.

Ring remodelling for arthritis

Expanding Ring (Hinged)

This option involves adding metal curves to the interior of the ring, allowing it to be taken on and off easily while also preventing spinning on the finger. The cost of this service starts at £220, and it is ideal for those with only a small size difference between their knuckle and finger. It is a simple and less invasive solution, but careful application is necessary to ensure comfort. Engraving inside the ring may be lost during this process.

Superfit/CLIQ Hinge

The Superfit or CLIQ hinge is a more expensive option, starting at £950 for a wedding ring and £1,500 for an engagement ring. It is a hinged ring that opens 180 degrees, allowing it to bypass the knuckle entirely. This option is ideal for those with larger knuckles or concerns about future knuckle growth. The hinge is discreet, and the ring can be adjusted to open half a size if needed. However, remodelling requires replacing the entire ring shank, and wedding rings cannot be fully remodelled. Additionally, those with delicate skin or sensitivity may experience discomfort when removing the ring.

Finger Mate Hinge

The Finger Mate hinge is another option for arthritic fingers. While it can be uncomfortable for those with nerve sensitivity, it offers a firm hinge that opens with a pull. It is important to consider the level of sensitivity in your fingers when choosing this option.

ForeverFit Hinge

The ForeverFit hinge is a smooth and easy solution for those with arthritic fingers. Its built-in spring allows it to retract and spring back when going over the knuckle. This option ensures that the ring can be put on and taken off comfortably without causing pain.

Custom-fit Rings

Custom-fit rings, such as those offered by CLIQ, provide a timeless and elegant solution for arthritic fingers. These rings can be custom-made to accommodate the specific size and needs of the wearer. They offer a painless fit that adapts to any changes in the wearer's life.

Hinged rings for arthritic fingers

While it is not clear whether or not a wedding ring can cause arthritis, there are many options for those who have arthritic fingers and would like to continue wearing their rings.

Hinged rings are an option for those with arthritic fingers who would like to continue wearing their wedding rings comfortably. These rings are designed with a hinge that allows the ring to open and bypass the knuckle, making it easier to put on and take off. This feature is especially useful for those who experience swelling or stiffness in their joints, as the ring can be snapped on and off without causing pain.

There are various styles of hinged rings available, including those made from sterling silver, gold, and platinum. Some companies, such as CLIQ, offer complimentary fit kits so that customers can find the perfect size for their ring finger. The fit kits include sizing rings that can be snapped on and off to determine the correct size.

In addition to the hinge feature, some hinged rings also have a magnetic lock at the top of the ring, allowing for an expandable shank. This feature adds to the convenience and comfort of the ring, ensuring a perfect fit.

For those who wish to retain the sentimental value of their original wedding ring, there is also the option of retrofitting the existing ring with a hinge. However, it is important to note that warped rings may not be suitable for this modification, and it may be better to opt for a brand new custom ring.

Ring shanks for arthritic fingers

Ring shanks can be adjusted to accommodate arthritic fingers, ensuring that people can continue to wear their wedding or engagement rings despite arthritis. There are several options available for those who want to adjust their rings:

Expanding Ring (Hinged)

Metal curves are added to the interior of the ring, allowing the setting to be taken on and off easily while preventing the ring from spinning on the finger. This method is suitable for small size differences and is the simplest solution for existing rings, although careful application is required. The cost of this service starts at £220.

Superfit/CLIQ Hinge

This option involves adding a thin strip of gold curved inside the ring, which expands over the finger and holds the ring in place. It is suitable for rings with stone settings as it keeps the ring locked upright. However, it may pinch loose skin, so careful sizing is necessary. This method is recommended for fingers with a size difference of 1-3 and costs £440 in 18kt gold.

Ring Shank Shaping

The ring shank is shaped into a square or trapezoid shape to prevent spinning. This method looks completely natural on the finger and is suitable for size differences of 1-3. It is a labour-intensive process, especially for gem-set rings, as the setting must be reconfigured to retain strength and work with the shank shape. The cost of this service starts at £850.

ForeverFit

The ForeverFit ring shank features a built-in spring that retracts as it goes over the knuckle and springs back once past, allowing the ring to be put on and taken off comfortably. This option is suitable for those with larger knuckles and can be adjusted to open half a size if the finger is swollen. It looks good as a wedding or engagement ring, and the hinging is discreet. The cost of this service starts at £950 for a wedding ring and £1,300 for an existing stone-set ring.

Hinged Ring – CLIQ by Superfit

This option involves replacing the entire ring shank with a hinged component, allowing the ring to open 180 degrees. It is suitable for any finger size and can be opened with a ballpoint pen. CLIQ offers a bespoke modelling service and their white gold is a good shade of white. However, some may be deterred by the need for a tool to remove the ring. The cost of this service starts at £950 for a wedding ring and £1,500 for an engagement ring.

Ring clasps for arthritic fingers

Although a wedding ring itself does not cause arthritis, it can become difficult to wear for those who experience symptoms such as swollen, stiff, or painful joints. This can be upsetting for those who want to continue wearing their rings. However, there are several ring clasps and adjustments that can help arthritic fingers.

Hinged Rings

One option for those struggling to wear their wedding rings due to arthritis is a hinged ring. These rings open 180 degrees, meaning they don't have to go over the knuckle and will work for any finger size. They can be opened with a ballpoint pen or similar object and are almost invisible once worn. CLIQ, ForeverFit, and Finger Mate are some companies that offer hinged rings.

Expandable Shanks

Another solution is to add metal curves or a thin strip of gold to the interior of the ring, creating an expandable shank. This allows the ring to be taken on and off easily while preventing spinning on the finger. This method typically requires resizing the ring and careful application to ensure comfort.

Trapezoid or Square-Shaped Shanks

Shaping the ring shank in a trapezoid or square shape can help prevent spinning. This method is labour-intensive, especially for gemstone rings, as the setting will need to be reconfigured to retain strength and work with the new shank shape. It is a good option for fingers with a size difference of 1-3 and results in a natural-looking ring.

Snap-On Rings

Snap-on rings can be pulled firmly to open up to four sizes, allowing them to slide over the knuckle, and then snap back together for a comfortable fit. They require no tools to open and close and have a secure setting. However, they may not be suitable for those with delicate skin or sensitivity as they can cause pain or discomfort when removing the ring.

Overall, there are several options available to help those with arthritic fingers continue wearing their wedding rings comfortably. It is important to consider factors such as finger size, level of discomfort, and cost when choosing the most suitable ring clasp or adjustment.

Frequently asked questions