Understanding thumb arthritis: Symptoms, risks, treatment, and tips

In his latest online article, Mr Charles Jeremy S Corbin gives us his insights into thumb arthritis. He talks about the common symptoms, risk factors, treatment options and if there are any exercises or therapies that can help manage this condition.

What are the common symptoms of thumb arthritis?

Thumb arthritis typically presents with swelling at the base of the thumb, causing an achy feeling and stiffness, especially in the mornings. As the condition progresses, patients may experience difficulty performing tasks that require thumb usage, such as using keys, jars, lifting heavy objects, or cooking activities like peeling and cutting vegetables. Over time, the thumb may develop a deformity with increased prominence and decreased span, making it challenging for individuals to open the thumb away from the palm.

What are the risk factors for developing thumb arthritis?

Thumb arthritis typically occurs in individuals over 45 years old, with a higher prevalence in women. Predisposing factors include previous thumb trauma or injuries, such as fractures or ligament damage. Additionally, hyper flexibility, commonly referred to as double-jointedness, can increase the likelihood of developing thumb arthritis. Other risk factors include excessive manual labour or work requiring extensive use of the hands. The main factors that predispose individuals to thumb arthritis are age, gender, previous thumb injuries, hyper flexibility, and occupational factors.

What are the treatment options available for thumb arthritis?

The treatment options for thumb arthritis depend on the severity of the condition, patient expectations, and demands. In early arthritis stages, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, painkillers, and splints may be used. Steroid injections can provide short-term relief. Surgical options include keyhole surgery, fusions, trapeziectomy, and basal thumb replacement. Each has different recovery times and risks. Activity modification, such as avoiding pain-inducing activities, is a crucial part of treatment. Thumb arthritis affects daily activities and grip strength, making tasks like opening jars or writing difficult. Surgical procedures aim to alleviate pain and restore functionality, but patients should consider the trade-offs and potential need for future surgeries.

Are there any exercises or therapies that can help manage thumb arthritis?

The effectiveness of managing thumb arthritis through activities remains uncertain. Coping with thumb arthritis often involves adapting activities to be less reliant on the thumb. While there are limited therapies to enhance thumb mobility and alleviate arthritis-related issues, some patients have found success in adjusting their approach to activities. For instance, certain individuals write using only two fingers, excluding the thumb, while ensuring the overall grip strength remains intact. Unfortunately, for those with basal thumb arthritis, viable therapeutic options are scarce. Unless the condition is in its early stages, where pain can be temporarily alleviated, patients may have limited options for maintaining their previous level of thumb usage, often necessitating a reduction in demanding activities.

Mr Charles Jeremy S Corbin is an esteemed orthopaedic surgeon with over 25 years of experience. You can schedule an appointment with Mr Corbin on his Top Doctors profile.