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BASE OF THUMB ARTHRITIS
Thumb arthritis is common with aging and occurs when cartilage wears away from the ends of the bones that form the joint at the base of your thumb — also known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint.Thumb arthritis can cause severe pain, swelling, and decreased strength and range of motion, making it difficult to do simple tasks, such as turning doorknobs and opening jars. Treatment generally involves a combination of medication and splints. Severe thumb arthritis might require surgery.
Pain is the first and most common symptom of thumb arthritis. Pain can occur at the base of your thumb when you grip, grasp or pinch an object, or use your thumb to apply force.
Other signs and symptoms might include:
- Persistent swelling, stiffness and tenderness at the base of your thumb
- Decreased strength when pinching or grasping objects
Decreased range of motion - Enlarged or bony appearance of the joint at the base of your thumb
Causes
Thumb arthritis commonly occurs with aging. Previous trauma or injury to the thumb joint also can cause thumb arthritis. In a normal thumb joint, cartilage covers the ends of the bones — acting as a cushion and allowing the bones to glide smoothly against each other. With thumb arthritis, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones deteriorates, and its smooth surface roughens. The bones then rub against each other, resulting in friction and joint damage.
Diagnosis
During a physical exam, Dr Zadeh will ask about your symptoms and look for noticeable swelling or lumps on your joints.
Dr Zadeh might hold your joint while moving your thumb, with pressure, against your wrist bone. If this movement produces a grinding sound, or causes pain or a gritty feeling, the cartilage has likely worn down, and the bones are rubbing against each other.
Non Operative Treatment
In the early stages of thumb arthritis, treatment usually involves a combination of non-surgical therapies. If your thumb arthritis is severe, surgery might be necessary.
Medication
Topical medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others), ibuprofen (Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve)
Prescription pain relievers, such as non steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS)
Splint
A splint can support your joint and limit the movement of your thumb and wrist. You might wear a splint just at night or throughout the day and night.
Splints can help:
- Decrease pain
- Encourage proper positioning of your joint while you complete tasks
- Rest your joint
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Dr. Zadeh is attentive to the needs of each patient. He performs a thorough examination in order to apply his expertise regarding the best treatments and procedures to achieve the desired result.
Our dedicated staff is courteous and very welcoming. You’ll benefit from our professional environment where the client experience is at the heart of the clinic’s mission.
WHAT OUR PATIENTS SAID
What did our patients say about Dr. Zadeh?
“Fully satisfied: surgery, service, and follow-ups! 2 surgeries for “tunnel carpien” and 2 surgeries for trigger fingers. All success! I highly recommend him.”
“Dr Zadeh has to be one of the must competent surgeons I have had the opportunity to encounter. His team was of most efficient and helpful. My hand surgery went like a charm. Great work!”
FAQ
Answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Base of Thumb Arthritis Below
What is base of thumb (CMC) arthritis?
It’s wear-and-tear (osteoarthritis) of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb, where the metacarpal meets the trapezium bone. The cartilage thins, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced pinch strength.
What symptoms should make me suspect CMC arthritis?
Pain at the thumb base (especially with pinching/turning keys/jar opening), swelling, a “grinding” sensation, reduced grip/pinch, and difficulty with fine tasks (buttons, zippers, handwriting).
How is it diagnosed?
Your surgeon takes a history and examines the thumb (grind test, pinch tests). X-rays confirm the diagnosis and stage the arthritis; advanced imaging is rarely required.
Can it get better on its own?
Flare-ups can settle with rest and splinting, but osteoarthritis itself is degenerative. The goal is to control pain, maintain function, and delay or avoid surgery when possible.
What non-surgical treatments are available?
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Thumb CMC splint/brace (rigid or semi-rigid)
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Activity modification + ergonomic aids (jar openers, key turners)
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Hand therapy (joint protection techniques, targeted exercises)
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Oral/topical anti-inflammatories (if appropriate)
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Corticosteroid injection for flares
Many patients do well with a combination of these.
Will a brace make my thumb weaker?
No—used correctly, a brace offloads the joint and reduces painful pinching. Your therapist will also give strengthening and mobility exercises to prevent deconditioning.
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