Thumb osteoarthritis (arthritis of the thumb)
Thumb arthritis, also known as thumb basal joint arthritis or CMC joint arthritis, means that the cartilage in the thumb's basal joint gradually degrades. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced strength in the hand, making simple everyday tasks like opening a jar or holding a milk carton more difficult.
What is thumb basal joint arthritis?
Thumb basal joint arthritis is a form of osteoarthritis that affects the thumb's basal joint, known as the CMC joint, located at the base of the thumb near the wrist. When the articular cartilage in the joint degrades, the smooth gliding surface that normally allows the joint to move smoothly and painlessly deteriorates.
As the cartilage thins, the load on the joint surfaces increases. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced strength in the thumb. Since the thumb is used in almost all gripping functions of the hand, even small changes in the joint can affect daily activities.
Common causes & risk factors
Thumb basal joint arthritis often develops gradually over time and becomes more common with increasing age. The condition is more prevalent in women than in men.
Wear and tear on the articular cartilage can occur through natural aging, but the risk increases if the thumb is subjected to repetitive stress. Work or activities that require a lot of pinch gripping or twisting movements can therefore contribute to the development of arthritis. Heredity can also play a role, as some individuals have an increased predisposition to develop arthritis in their joints.
Physiotherapist's tips for Thumb osteoarthritis
"For thumb base osteoarthritis, it is important to relieve and stabilize the thumb's basal joint to reduce pain during gripping and loading. I usually recommend a thumb support that provides support in everyday life, and if needed, a more protective support for activities where the thumb is under more strain."
Ida
Licensed Physiotherapist · Rehaboteket
Symptoms
- Dull, localized pain in the thumb, often at the base of the thumb
- Pain during weight-bearing, especially with gripping or twisting movements
- Reduced grip strength, especially in the pinch grip (thumb-index finger)
- Stiffness and swelling at the base of the thumb joint
- In more extensive osteoarthritis, pain is also present at rest
The symptoms of thumb base osteoarthritis often develop gradually over many years, and it is common to have periods where the discomfort is less pronounced.
When does thumb base osteoarthritis hurt the most?
Pain from thumb base osteoarthritis often arises in situations where the thumb's basal joint is stressed or twisted.
When gripping objects
Holding a jar, a saucepan, or a milk carton can provoke pain at the base of the thumb.
With twisting movements
Movements such as opening jars, turning keys, or using screw caps put a lot of strain on the CMC joint.
With repetitive hand movements
Work or activities where the thumb is used frequently can cause the pain to gradually increase.
After prolonged use of the hand
Pain can increase after a day of extensive handiwork or other activities that stress the thumb.
When should you seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if thumb pain becomes persistent and affects daily life, if you experience significant loss of hand strength, or if joint swelling increases. Care should also be sought if the pain worsens despite rest and self-care.
Recommended braces & supports
For thumb base osteoarthritis, the right protection and relief can contribute to reduced pain and improved function in daily life and at work. Stabilizing thumb braces can relieve the thumb's basal joint and provide increased stability during activity.
Ergonomic aids that facilitate grip and reduce strain on the thumb can also make a big difference in everyday life. By reducing the load on the CMC joint, pain can be alleviated and hand function improved.
See all braces and supports that can provide relief for thumb base osteoarthritis
Related injuries
For more knowledge about the hand and wrist, you can read further in the Injury Guide Hand & Wrist. You can also go to the Injury Guide's main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
The Injury Guide – quick guidance for common injuries
In our Injury Guide, you will receive clear and easy-to-understand information about common injuries, how they occur, and what symptoms usually occur. You will also receive recommendations on which protection and aids can relieve your discomfort and help you further in your rehabilitation. All information is based on expert knowledge from our licensed physiotherapist.
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