Symptoms
Pain is felt at the fleshy base of the thumb and is worst with pinch and grip. The joint may look squared-off, and strength fades so that jars, pegs and door handles become difficult. Symptoms often fluctuate, with bad spells and quieter periods.
Treatment without surgery
Many people manage well for years with a supportive splint, simple pain relief, and adapting how they use the hand. A steroid injection into the joint can calm a painful flare, sometimes for many months.
Surgery
When symptoms no longer respond, surgery may be the next step for you. This can involve a thumb base joint replacement, which aims to preserve more strength and suits selected patients; it can be a great option for long-lasting pain relief and improvement in function. Another option is trapeziectomy, removing the small worn bone at the base of the thumb. As one of her specialist interests, Miss Morrell will discuss honestly which option fits your hand, your activities and the state of the joint. Fusion of the joint is occasionally the right choice, particularly for younger, heavy hand users.
Recovery
Whichever operation is chosen, the thumb is protected in a splint or cast at first, followed by hand therapy. Pinch strength rebuilds over roughly three months, with improvement continuing beyond that. Most people are very glad to be rid of the arthritic pain.
This page is general information, not personal medical advice. The British Society for Surgery of the Hand also publishes helpful patient guides. For advice about your own hand, book an assessment.