Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats thumb CMC arthritis for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. Our hand and wrist specialists help patients understand the cause of thumb pain and weakness while providing personalized treatment options to reduce pain and restore hand function.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Thumb CMC Arthritis
Thumb CMC arthritis, also called basal joint arthritis or base-of-thumb arthritis, is one of the most common arthritic conditions affecting the hand. The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint is located at the base of the thumb, where the thumb meets the wrist. This condition is more common in women and becomes increasingly common with age.
Arthritis develops when the cartilage within the CMC joint wears away. Healthy cartilage cushions the joint and allows the bones to move smoothly over one another. As cartilage is lost, the bones begin to rub together, often causing pain and limiting thumb function. Thumb CMC arthritis may result from repetitive use, normal wear and tear over time, or previous trauma to the joint.
Patients often notice pain during pinching activities such as opening jars, twisting bottle caps, or turning doorknobs. Many also find themselves dropping objects because of pain or weakness in the thumb.
Diagnosis of Thumb CMC Arthritis
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the thumb and hand. Your provider will review your symptoms, evaluate thumb motion and strength, and determine whether the CMC joint is the source of your pain.
The examination, combined with imaging when appropriate, helps guide treatment recommendations based on the severity of arthritis and your functional goals.
Medical Management of Thumb CMC Arthritis
Thumb CMC arthritis can often be managed without surgery. Treatment focuses on reducing pain, improving function, and helping patients experience more good days than bad days.
Bracing
Immobilizing the CMC joint with a brace can help stabilize the thumb and reduce pain during daily activities.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Anti-inflammatory medications may help reduce inflammation and discomfort within the joint.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections do not restore cartilage or change the appearance of arthritis on X-rays, but they may reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Repeat injections may be considered every three to four months when appropriate.
Hand Therapy
Hand therapists can teach exercises and techniques to strengthen and stabilize the thumb during pinching and gripping activities.
Other Treatment Options
Additional options, including topical creams, supplements, acupuncture, or massage, may also be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.
When Surgery is Considered
Patients do not have to undergo surgery for thumb CMC arthritis. However, if nonsurgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief and pain begins to interfere with sleep or daily activities, surgery may be recommended.
The goal of surgery is to reduce pain while preserving useful thumb motion and function.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Hand and Wrist Care
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. Our hand and wrist specialists provide care for common and complex conditions affecting the fingers, hand, wrist, and upper extremity, supported by on-site imaging, therapy, and orthopedic surgical care.
