Thumb Arthritis

---

What is it ?

It is arthritis which occurs at the base of the thumb. It results in a painful thumb particularly around the base. The pain is felt at night and is made worse when attempting to grip objects.

---

The Thumb joint

Arthritis at the base of the thumb

---

What causes it ?

Osteoarthritis is the wearing away of the lining of a joint, called the cartilage. There may be a genetic cause for this; but it can be secondary to trauma, infection, or as a result of an inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis.

---

What is the treatment ?

In all cases initial treatment is conservative. Splinting the joint at night and a steroid injection into the joint can be effective in the early stages.

If these measures fail and the pain is  persistent, particularly at night, then surgery will be considered.

Surgery can involve the removal of the arthritic joint (Trapeziectomy) or a fusion of the joint.