What is thumb arthritis aka CMC arthritis?
Thumb arthritis also known as CMC arthritis affects the area of the hand where the thumb (metacarpal) bone meets the wrist (carpal) bone. As this joint becomes worn, often due to age, it can lead a painful condition called CMC arthritis.
What are the symptoms of thumb arthritis?
The symptoms of thumb arthritis (CMC arthritis) are pain associated with pinching, gripping and general thumb use such as, using a key, turning a door knob or opening a jar. Individuals with arthritis at the base of the thumb may also notice swelling.
What is the treatment for thumb arthritis?
Treatment can be non-operative or operative, depending on the severity of the pain. A conservative approach for mild symptoms would include rest, modification of daily activities, anti-inflammatory medicine and physical therapy with one of our hand specialists. If symptoms are severe with limited hand function, you may require surgery.
How can a hand therapist help with thumb arthritis?
Hand therapy teaches the patient how to regain full use of the hand, along with activity modifications and exercises to help reduce pain. Our hand therapist’s evaluate each patient carefully to develop a custom treatment plan whether suffering from arthritis or recovering from an injury or surgery.
If you are experiencing persistent joint pain in your hand, call or text us today at 856.690.1616 or schedule an appointment online to request an appointment with one of our hand specialists; Peter A. Sarkos, DO, FAOAO, Bruce A. Monaghan, MD, FAAOS.
