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Having Thumb Joint Pain? It May Be Arthritis of the Thumb

Having Thumb Joint Pain? It May Be Arthritis of the Thumb

Arthritis at the base of the thumb is a common reason for people to go to a hand surgeon for an evaluation. The process of disease wears out the cartilage at the end of the bones, leading to pain and deformity.

Who Develops Arthritis In The Thumb?

People typically develop thumb joint pain as they age and the thumb basal joint wears out. Women are more commonly affected than men. The pain can develop in either thumb, regardless of which hand is the dominant one.

What Symptoms Do People Complain Of?

The majority of people complain of aching pain at the base of the thumb. There is usually no history of prior injury. The pain develops slowly and becomes more intense over time. People also complain of difficulty pinching and grasping, such as opening jars and turning keys. In the later stages, people have a weakness, and instability of the thumb.

How Is The Diagnosis Made?

The diagnosis can be made by history and physical examination. It can be confirmed using X-rays, which typically show signs of wear and tear along the joint.

What Are The Nonsurgical Treatment Options?

In the early stages of arthritis, people can get relief through rest, modification of activities, and use of a splint. Steroid injections into the joint can provide additional relief. The injections are well tolerated and are usually successful in lowering the pain, although often temporary. People can manage their symptoms effectively for a long time before requiring surgery.

When Is Surgery Recommended?

Surgery is recommended when the thumb joint pain worsens and it cannot be helped by the above treatments. Surgery may also be necessary in cases where sufferers develop severe instability of the thumb. Even without pain, the instability can be a severe hindrance to normal use of the thumb.

What Is Involved In The Surgery?

Surgical reconstruction of the joint removes the joint to achieve pain relief and stabilize the thumb so it can be used normally once again. The surgery is done on an outpatient basis and is covered by most insurance plans. The operation can be performed under general anesthesia, regional (block) anesthesia, or even under local anesthesia with sedation.

What Happens After Surgery?

Following surgery, patients are kept in a splint for one to three weeks, depending on pain. Hand therapy is started early on in order to maintain flexibility and to improve strength. People report gradual improvement with full recovery expected in a few weeks. The newer techniques of joint reconstruction allow earlier motion of the thumb. This enables people to return to normal activities within a shorter period of time, typically 3-6 weeks. The vast majority of people say they are satisfied with the surgery and are able to resume their daily activities free of pain.

If you are having problems with arthritis in your thumb or are looking for treatment for hand problems, visit Advanced Specialty Care’s hand surgery specialists in Fairfield County at our office in Danbury.


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Multi-Specialty Private Practice with six locations in Fairfield County, CT