Thumb Arthritis Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Arthritis at the joint at the base of the thumb, or the carpalmetacarpal (CMC) joint is very common. When osteoarthritis occurs at this joint, the cartilage begins to wear down creating painful bone on bone friction. That joint is important to move your thumb from side to side as well as up and down.

Conservative treatment options include activity modification, taking NSAIDs, steroid injections, physical therapy, and bracing. When those treatments no longer relieve the thumb pain, surgery may be necessary.

When thumb pain starts affecting your day to day life, see an orthopedic hand surgeon it is a good time to seek treatment.