Thumb Arthritis

Understanding and Managing Thumb Arthritis

Thumb arthritis can significantly affect daily activities, and its diagnosis may sometimes be challenging. While arthritis is a common culprit, other conditions can mimic its symptoms. Tendonitis, for example, often causes diffuse pain near the thumb joint. De Quervain's disease affects the wrist near the base of the thumb and may cause pain and swelling.

Less common conditions, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, can also impact the thumb joint and are often accompanied by symptoms like morning stiffness or finger swelling.

Identifying Thumb Arthritis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Thumb arthritis pain typically concentrates at the base and worsens with pinching or gripping. You might also experience stiffness, weakness, or limited mobility in the thumb. In contrast, other conditions might present with pain in different locations, morning stiffness, or more prominent swelling.

Understanding the Cause

Thumb arthritis results from the gradual degeneration of cartilage in the joint. This degeneration occurs over time from everyday activities like texting or gripping objects. Genetics, past injuries, and loose ligaments can also contribute. While anyone can develop thumb arthritis, it's more common in women.

Importance of the Thumb Joint

The thumb's carpometacarpal (CMC) joint plays a crucial role in hand function. This complex joint allows for a wide range of motion thanks to a network of ligaments. Unfortunately, this joint is susceptible to various conditions that manifest as pain, weakness, stiffness, and instability, impacting not only hand function but potentially the entire upper extremity.

Symptoms and Early Intervention

Symptoms of thumb arthritis and related conditions can vary significantly. Some individuals experience intermittent pain flares even at rest, while others might only have discomfort during forceful pinching. In advanced cases, joint stiffness or contractures may develop, limiting mobility. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for addressing these issues and restoring optimal hand function.

Treatment Options with Dr. Donnelly

If you experience thumb pain, it's important to consult a healthcare professional, preferably an orthopedic hand specialist, for a proper diagnosis. Treatment options for confirmed thumb arthritis may include: immobilization with a brace, steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation, hand therapy to improve strength and stability, and, in some cases, surgery.

Dr. Donnelly and his team specialize in helping patients manage thumb pain. If immobilization is necessary, they can recommend the appropriate splint. They can also provide guidance on protecting your thumb joint in daily life and suggest the use of special tools or techniques. If surgery is deemed necessary, Dr. Donnelly utilizes the latest techniques to ensure the best possible outcome.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thumb pain, contact Dr. Donnelly’s office today to schedule your appointment.

About Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly, MD

Dr. Brandon P. Donnelly is a board certified hand surgeon with Pontchartrain Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. Dr. Donnelly completed his hand and microsurgery fellowship at the prestigious Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center. Dr. Donnelly treats all ages of patients in the greater New Orleans area for hand, wrist, and elbow conditions.

This site is not intended to and does not provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion, treatment or services to you or to any other individual. Through this website and links to other websites, Brandon P. Donnelly, MD provides general information for educational purposes only. The content provided in this website and links, is not a substitute for medical care or treatment. You should not use this information in place of a consultation or the advice of your healthcare provider. Brandon P. Donnelly, MD is not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any other information, services or product you obtain through this site.