Arthritis Of The Thumb – Carpometacarpal (Cmc) Joint
The thumb joint of the hand is called the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. This joint is capable of movement in several plains which may results in premature deterioration of the joint. When the cartilage on the surface of the thumb joint (articular cartilage) has been completely destroyed and motion and mobility becomes painful the thumb joint (CMC joint) has osteoarthritis. Injury to the joint, such as from a bad sprain or fracture, can cause damage to the articular cartilage later in life. Often the alignment of the thumb will deform and the thumb will be increasingly painful to move. Symptoms of CMC arthritis are characterized as pain and swelling at the base of the thumb accompanied by weakness when grasping objects with the hand and thumb. The diagnosis of CMC arthritis can be made with physical examination by a physician and usually confirmed with an XR.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have CMC arthritis
- Acute treatment starts with reduction of inflammation - RICE regimen (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation).
- Rest, avoidance of overuse and decreasing the offending activity is fundamental in the treatment of CMC arthritis
- Prevention of CMC arthritis requires careful attention to your wrist and hand posture and repetitive movements. Often an ergonomic work station evaluation can be helpful
- Stretch before, during, and after an activity, to allow for more joint and mobility.
- Use Wrist supports, Thumb supports and Thumb Spica Orthosis