![]() ![]() There are several surgical techniques to choose from. Surgical treatment of Basal Thumb Arthritis is reserved for cases which fail conservative methods and cause substantial disability and pain to the patient. This is highly effective, but cannot be repeated more than a few times as the steroid may have an adverse effect on the ligaments of the joint if not carefully used. A corticosteroid, can be injected into the carpometacarpal joint. NSAIDS may be prescribed during this time to treat any pain. If improvement occurs, the splint may be removed at night and gradual weaning of the splint employed. ![]() The splint is worn constantly, except for during bathing, for a period of a month. It is important to choose a specialized splint that immobilizes the thumb, such as a thumb spica splint. Resting the hand affected by Basal Thumb Arthritis is the first step in treating the condition. MRI may be used to help plan for surgery if indicated.īasal Thumb Arthritis can be treated non-surgically or surgically depending on the severity of symptoms and level of disability. These views will assess joint misalignment (subluxation), joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and the condition of the cartilage. X rays with standard and stress views are employed to evaluate the joint. Swan neck deformity of the thumb is a late finding.īasal Thumb Arthritis is diagnosed with a careful history, thorough physical examination, and imaging studies. In late stages of the disease, weakness of grip, and inability to abduct or extend the thumb away from the hand are classic findings. A bony prominence may form at the carpometacarpal joint as a result of osteophyte formation, swelling and resulting misalignment of the joint. As the condition progresses, the pain may increase in intensity and duration. There may be tenderness and swelling over the carpometacarpal joint. In the early stages of Basal Thumb Arthritis, pain may be present with activities such as writing, opening a jar, or twisting a doorknob. What are the symptoms of Basal Thumb Arthritis? A history of trauma to the thumb, including Rolando’s or Bennett’s fractures of the base of the thumb have been associated with Basal Thumb Arthritis. An occupation or hobby that involves repeated motion of the joint can cause degeneration of the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis predisposes the basal thumb to arthritis. It is up to six times more common in women than in men, possibly due to ligamentous laxity associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Like most forms of osteoarthritis, the incidence of Basal Thumb Arthritis increases with age, although it can also affect the very young. The cause of Basal Thumb Arthritis is not known, however several risk factors have been associated with it. The ligaments can become lax and the cartilage of the joint can wear away causing pain and disability in susceptible individuals. This oft-used joint can become unstable and wear out over time. The carpometacarpal joint is extremely mobile, allowing the pivoting and swiveling motions of the thumb, and essential for manipulation of the hand. This joint consists of the articulation of a wrist bone called the trapezium with the first metacarpal bone, which forms the base of the thumb. Knight help you with Basal Thumb Arthritis?īasal thumb arthritis is a type of osteoarthritis affecting the base of the thumb at the carpometacarpal joint. 5 How is Basal Thumb Arthritis Treated?.4 How is Basal Thumb Arthritis Diagnosed?.3 What are the symptoms of Basal Thumb Arthritis?.
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