What Is Thumb Arthritis?

Thumb arthritis is a condition that affects the joint at the base of the thumb. Also called basal joint arthritis or first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis, this joint is crucial for thumb mobility and strength, enabling us to perform a wide range of activities. Over time, deterioration of the cartilage in this joint leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced function. This is a common condition, particularly among older adults, and makes gripping, pinching, and grasping objects more difficult.

Symptoms of Thumb Arthritis

thumb arthritis typically begins with pain.

It's possible to experience pain at the base of your thumb when you grip, grasp, pinch, or apply force to an object with your thumb.

In addition to these, you may also experience:

• Tenderness and swelling at the base of your thumb.

• Having difficulty pinching or gripping objects due to decreased strength.

• Reduced range of motion.

• The base of your thumb joint may appear enlarged or bony.

Causes of Thumb Arthritis

Various factors contribute to thumb arthritis, with age being the most common. As we age, our joints wear out, and our thumb joint's protective cartilage deteriorates naturally. Traumatic injuries such as falls or direct impacts to the thumb can also cause thumb arthritis. In addition, repetitive motions or activities that strain the thumb joint continuously, such as those seen in certain occupations or hobbies, may increase arthritis risk. It is also possible for genetics to play a role, as some people may have a genetic predisposition to arthritis.

Prevention and effective management of this condition depends heavily on understanding these potential causes.

Factors that increase your risk of thumb arthritis include

• Older than 40 years old.

• It is possible that you may have certain hereditary conditions, such as joint ligament laxity and malformed joints.

• Injuries to your thumb joint, such as fractures and sprains.

• Inflammatory diseases of cartilage, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Thumb arthritis is most often caused by osteoarthritis, but rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the CMC (carpometacarpal) joint, usually less severely than other hand joints.

• Activities and jobs that stress the thumb joint.

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if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you've come to the right place. We are here to help!

Having dedicated experts by your side is crucial on your road to recovery. Located in San Antonio, The Hand & Upper Extremity Center of San Antonio is proud to offer the highest standard of care and is fortunate to have our doctors commitment to excellence, combined with extensive experience in treating Thumb arthritis, ensures that you receive the best support and care.