Thumb Osteoarthritis

Self Help Guides | Wrist and Hand Conditions | Thumb Osteoarthritis

Pathophysiology

The thumb joint articulates with the trapezium which is one of the small carpal bones in the hand. This is the most commonly affected joint in the hand with osteoarthritis. More common in women than men with 30% of women aged over 40 years showing arthritic changes on x-ray. May exist as a localised (single joint) or type of inflammatory arthritis e.g rheumatoid arthritis/gout and previous injuries may increase risk.

Symptoms

Pain with repetitive movements e.g pinching, turning and clicking of finger to thumb
Swelling and tenderness at the base of thumb
Loss of strength when gripping or pinching
Reduced range of movement of the thumb
Development of a bony prominence over the thumb

Management

Activity modification
Ice or heat
Pain relief
Physiotherapy including range of movement, strengthening exercises and splinting
Orthopaedic options includes steroid injection and surgery if symptoms are not settling with 3 months conservative measures

Investigations

X-ray can assess the level of osteoarthritis

Exercises to try

Grip

Wrist Flexion

Wrist Extension