Have you ever paused to consider just how frequently you rely on your thumbs in your daily life? The joint where your thumb attaches to your hand, known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, endures an incredible amount of stress over the years. This joint is engineered to provide your thumb with a remarkable range of motion, allowing you to perform various tasks with ease. However, this constant usage can take its toll, leading to a condition called thumb arthritis. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to address the progressing arthritis.
This guide, created by Michigan hand doctor Avery Arora, MD, is dedicated to enhancing your comprehension of thumb arthritis, covering its development, diagnostic procedures, and the available treatments. If you’re experiencing thumb discomfort and wonder if it’s arthritis, read on.
The CMC joint, often referred to as the basal joint of the thumb, is a pivotal component of the thumb’s anatomy. This joint links the metacarpal bone of the thumb with the trapezium bone of the wrist, enabling your thumb’s unique opposition movement, where it meets your palm.
The integrity of the CMC joint is upheld by a network of ligaments, which may become compromised in the event of a thumb sprain or injury. The joint surfaces are equipped with a protective layer known as articular cartilage. This resilient, cushion-like material ensures that the joint’s surfaces glide smoothly against each other.
As time goes on, due to various factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, and repetitive thumb use, this articular cartilage can gradually deteriorate. This deterioration sets the stage for the development of thumb arthritis, a condition that profoundly impacts the joint’s function and mobility.
There are several potential causes of thumb arthritis. It can result from everyday wear and tear on the joint, genetic factors, and overuse of the thumb. Understanding the causes is essential to prevent and manage this condition effectively.
Thumb arthritis manifests through various signs and symptoms, including:
These symptoms can impact your daily life and hinder your ability to perform tasks that require thumb dexterity.
Treatment for thumb arthritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical approaches may include:
In more severe cases, surgery may be recommended to relieve pain and restore thumb function. Surgical procedures like arthroplasty or arthrodesis are designed to repair or replace the affected joint. Dr. Arora, our Michigan thumb arthritis expert, has extensive experience in performing these surgeries and will guide your care through the entire process.
Don’t let thumb arthritis limit your life. If you are experiencing symptoms of thumb arthritis, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment with Dr. Avery Arora in West Bloomfield, Howell, Macomb, or Warren. Our skilled hand doctor is here to provide expert evaluation and treatment for thumb arthritis, helping you regain control of your hand’s function and quality of life again.
