About Thumb Base Arthritis:
Arthritis is the thinning of cartilage between two bones that form a joint. The loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together causing pain, inflammation and leads to bone spurs. Thumb base arthritis is the wearing away of cartilage at the thumb base due to genetics and basic wear and tear.
Signs & Symptoms
- Pain at the base of the thumb
- Weakness
- Difficulty with opening jars, turning keys and doorknobs and writing
How is it Treated?
- Rest, ice/heat, oral anti-inflammatories
- Hand based splints
- Cortisone injections
- Surgical treatment