Easing Hand Pain: Relief for Thumb Arthritis

Thumb arthritis, often referred to as basal joint or CMC joint arthritis, can make everyday actions like opening a jar, gripping a key, or typing into a keyboard painful challenges. This condition develops when the protective cartilage at the base of your thumb wears down. When this happens, the bones rub together, causing stiffness, swelling, and a deep, aching pain that severely limits hand function.

If your thumb pain is making everyday activities difficult, or if you suspect you may have thumb arthritis, we encourage you to seek professional care. Take the first step toward finding relief. Call us today at (630) 584-1400 or easily request an appointment through our online form on the Contact Us page. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, please call 911.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Thumb Arthritis

The good news is that most cases of thumb arthritis can be managed effectively without surgery. The goal of early treatment is to reduce pain and inflammation while enhancing the joint's stability. By using a combination of methods, many people can slow the progression of the arthritis and maintain excellent hand function.

1. Activity Modification and Splinting

One of the most immediate ways to reduce pain is by adjusting your hand use. You may need to learn new ways to grip and handle objects that place less stress on the painful joint. This is known as activity modification.

An orthopedic specialist or physical therapist can recommend a splint or brace to support your thumb.

• A custom or over-the-counter splint holds the joint in a position that reduces movement and allows it to rest.
• Splints are often worn during activities that cause pain or at night to provide support and relief.
• This rest reduces swelling and helps ease the tenderness that limits your grip.

2. Medications and Injections

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can be very helpful for managing flare-ups. Medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen reduce the swelling that causes much of the pain. However, always speak with a doctor before starting any new medication to ensure it is safe for you.

For more severe or persistent pain, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection.

• This involves injecting a powerful anti-inflammatory medicine directly into the painful joint.
• The steroid reduces inflammation quickly, providing significant pain relief that often lasts for several months.
• Injections are a safe and effective part of a total treatment plan.

3. Physical Therapy and Exercise

Physical therapy is a core component of treating thumb arthritis. A dedicated hand therapist can teach you gentle exercises to improve the range of motion in your thumb and strengthen the surrounding muscles. Stronger muscles provide better support, which helps stabilize the joint and reduce stress.

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our Physical Therapy services focus on techniques designed for your specific hand.

Key elements of a physical therapy program include:

• Gentle Stretching: To maintain flexibility in the joint and surrounding ligaments.
• Strengthening Exercises: To build muscle in the hand and forearm, which helps stabilize the joint.
• Learning Joint Protection Techniques: These are new methods for performing everyday tasks that protect the joints from further damage. For instance, using a larger grip tool instead of a small one.

When to Consider Surgical Treatment

For a small number of people, non-surgical methods eventually fail to provide sufficient relief. When pain becomes severe, constant, and significantly limits your ability to use your hand, your orthopedic specialist may discuss surgical options. Orthopedic surgeons employ advanced techniques to reconstruct the thumb joint, providing long-term pain relief and enhanced function.

A few standard surgical options include:

• Trapeziectomy: This is a standard procedure in which the small, damaged bone at the base of the thumb (the trapezium) is removed. The space is often replaced with a cushion of tissue from your own body, which helps create a flexible, pain-free joint.
• Joint Fusion (Arthrodesis): This involves permanently fusing the bones of the arthritic joint. This stops the painful movement but results in a stiff, stable, and strong thumb. It is often a good choice for individuals who require firm grip or pinch strength for their work or hobbies.

Your orthopedic doctor will take time to discuss the pros and cons of each option based on your age, activity level, and the severity of your arthritis. Surgery is a specialized procedure that requires careful consideration and planning. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and fully informed about any treatment pathway you choose.

Taking the Next Step in Your Care

Dealing with persistent hand pain is tough, but you don't have to manage it alone. The correct diagnosis and an expert treatment plan can make a significant difference in your quality of life. Whether you need a simple splint recommendation, a targeted injection, or advanced surgical care, our dedicated team at the orthopedic clinic in Geneva, IL, is ready to help you regain full use of your hands.

Trust the experience and care of Fox Valley Orthopedics. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss the best treatment options for your thumb arthritis. Call us directly at (630) 584-1400 or visit our Contact Us page to send us a request.