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Treating Thumb Arthritis
Posted on 08-19-2025 in Hand & Arthritis by Dr. Steven Kronlage
Posted on 08-19-2025 in Hand & Arthritis 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.
July is Park & Recreation Month, a national celebration of the green spaces and recreational opportunities that help communities thrive. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we believe this observance is the perfect reminder of how time spent outdoors isn’t just good for the soul—it’s good for your joints, too.
With temperatures already in the eighties or higher across the Florida Panhandle, staying hydrated is critical for the health of your joints, not just for your overall health. While water intake is most commonly associated with skin health, digestion and energy levels, hydration is just as vital in keeping your joints moving comfortably and efficiently. Below are a few of the most common questions, along with answers, to help stay “fluid” in the Florida heat.
With the school year beginning soon, many parents, including me, are busy checking off supply lists and preparing our kids for the transition back to the classroom. But as a Sports Medicine physician and a parent, I know that ensuring a healthy and safe school year goes far beyond pencils and paper. The start of school is the perfect time to review a few key safety and wellness practices with your children, especially when it comes to backpack safety, hydration, and nutrition.