Understanding CMC Arthritis

CMC arthritis affects the carpometacarpal joint at the base of the thumb. This joint allows you to pinch, grip, and rotate your thumb for everyday tasks. When the cartilage in this joint wears down, simple activities like opening jars, turning keys, or writing can become painful and difficult.

Understanding CMC Arthritis

CMC arthritis develops when the smooth cartilage cushioning the thumb base joint gradually wears away. As the bones begin to rub directly against each other, the joint becomes painful, stiff, and enlarged. This is one of the most common sites of arthritis in the hand, especially in women over 40.

Common Symptoms

  • Pain at the base of the thumb, especially with pinching or gripping
  • Swelling or a “bump” around the thumb joint
  • Difficulty opening jars, turning doorknobs, or using tools
  • Weak grip strength or dropping objects
  • Grinding or popping sensations with movement

Causes & Risk Factors

  • Age-related cartilage wear and degeneration
  • Previous thumb injuries or fractures
  • Repetitive gripping or pinching at work or home
  • Family history of arthritis
  • Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis

Treatment Options in Boise

At OrthoCare360, our providers offer a full range of non-surgical and surgical options to relieve thumb pain and help you return to normal use of your hand.

Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Splinting or bracing: Stabilizes the joint and decreases stress during daily activities.
  • Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to ease pain and swelling.
  • Occupational therapy: Teaches joint protection techniques and provides customized exercises.
  • Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary but meaningful pain relief.

Surgical Options

When conservative care no longer controls symptoms, surgery can help restore function and decrease pain.

  • Ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI): Removes arthritic bone and reconstructs the joint using a tendon.
  • Joint fusion (arthrodesis): Fuses the joint for stability in select patients.
  • Joint replacement: In some cases, an artificial joint can be used to preserve motion.

Our team will help determine which approach best meets your needs and daily demands.

Recovery and Outlook

With the right combination of splinting, therapy, and—when needed—surgery, most patients experience significant relief and are able to return to normal hand use. Recovery timelines vary depending on the treatment, but our team will guide you through each phase.

See a Hand Specialist in Boise

If thumb pain is making everyday tasks difficult, we’re here to help. We offer same-week appointments so you can get a clear diagnosis and plan. Call (208) 506-3665 or book online here.

Get Relief from Thumb Arthritis

Don’t let thumb pain interfere with your independence. Our specialists at OrthoCare360 provide advanced treatment options to help you return to the activities you enjoy.

Book an Appointment