Treating Thumb Arthritis
Posted on August 16, 2023 in Hand by Dr. Steven Kronlage
Posted on August 16, 2023 in Hand by Dr. Steven Kronlage
Thumb arthritis is degeneration of the joint at the base of the thumb metacarpal. It usually is the trapezium/metacarpal joint (TMC) but can be the joint below as well. This is where the thumb meets the wrist. It is much more common in women and can be related to loose ligaments.
When bracing and steroid injections no longer help, surgical treatment can be very successful. The patient makes the decision to operate. The trapezium is removed, and a tendon is usually placed in the space that once held the trapezium. The deformity is usually corrected at the time of surgery. If a patient has a significant “Z” deformity, they may require a fusion or a stabilization of the joint above is required.
After surgery, patients are seen every two weeks. They will usually go through a progression of smaller splints and increasing range of motion. At six weeks, normal activities are allowed. Grip strength can take longer to return to normal. Supervised hand therapy may be required for optimal function. Decisions on hand therapy are made postoperatively based on how well the hand and wrist are moving.
Visit Thumb Arthritis for additional information, including symptoms and diagnosis details.
What is Stem Cell Therapy?
Thumb arthritis is degeneration of the joint at the base of the thumb metacarpal. It usually is the trapezium/metacarpal joint (TMC) but can be the joint below as well. This is where the thumb meets the wrist. It is much more common in women and can be related to loose ligaments.
A study in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise noted that the average person takes 5,117 steps per day. With so much time on our feet, Foot Health Awareness Month in April is an opportunity to focus on the health of our feet and give them the attention they deserve.