Thumb Arthritis – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Thumb arthritis affects the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb. This condition typically develops with age as cartilage deteriorates between the connecting bones.
People with thumb arthritis often experience significant pain, swelling around the joint, reduced grip strength, and limited range of motion. These symptoms can make everyday activities challenging, from turning doorknobs to opening containers.
Most treatment plans combine medication with supportive devices like splints. For severe cases where conservative approaches prove ineffective, surgical intervention may become necessary.
Signs of Thumb Joint Problems
Thumb joint problems often start with pain. You may feel discomfort at the base of your thumb when you grip objects or use your thumb to push against something. You might also notice:
- Swelling and tenderness around the base of your thumb
- Stiffness when moving your thumb
- Weaker grip when pinching or holding objects
- Limited movement in your thumb
- Bumpy appearance at the joint where your thumb meets your hand
When You Should Visit a Doctor
If you notice ongoing swelling, stiffness, or pain at the base of your thumb that doesn’t go away, it’s time to see a doctor. These symptoms shouldn’t be ignored, especially if they affect your daily activities.
Causes
Thumb arthritis often develops as people get older. It can also happen after the thumb has been hurt or injured.
When the thumb joint is healthy, cartilage covers the bone ends. This cartilage works like a cushion and helps bones move smoothly against each other.
In thumb arthritis, this cartilage breaks down and becomes rough. When this happens, bones rub directly against each other, causing friction and damage to the joint.
As the joint damage continues, new bone may grow along existing bone edges. These extra bone growths (bone spurs) can create visible bumps on the thumb joint.
The process typically happens gradually over time, leading to increasing pain and reduced movement in the thumb.
Risk Factors
Several factors may raise your chances of getting thumb arthritis:
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop this condition.
- Age: People over 40 face a higher risk.
- Weight: Carrying extra pounds puts more stress on joints.
- Genetics: Some inherited conditions affect joint stability.
- Past Injuries: Previous thumb fractures or sprains can lead to later problems.
- Other Health Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis affect cartilage.
- Repetitive Activities: Jobs or hobbies that strain the thumb joint regularly.
Osteoarthritis most commonly causes thumb arthritis, but other forms of arthritis can affect this joint, too.
