Hand and Wrist

Conditions We Treat

Basal Joint Arthritis

Arthritis is a disease that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. When arthritis occurs, the joint is inflamed and over time slowly destroys the basal joint.

What is Basal Joint Arthritis?

• Affects the joint at the base of the thumb, called the basal joint
• Most common in women over 40, but anyone can get it
• Often it happens in both thumbs

What are the Causes?

• Occurs as a result of wear and tear on the joint
• Is more likely to occur if you have fractured or injured your thumb
• Repeated gripping, twisting, or turning object with the thumb and fingers can make the arthritis worse

What are the Symptoms?

• Most commonly, it is pain in the lower part of the thumb.
• Pain when you lift something with the thumb and fingers, unscrew a jar lid, or turn a door handle or a key
• Weather may make your thumb hurt
• Joint swelling
• Thumb may become stiff or deformed

Getting a Diagnosis

Your doctor can usually diagnose basal joint arthritis by the way your thumb looks and moves. Your doctor may order x-rays to see how much of the joint is damaged. Your treatment will depend on how severe your pain is and how worn the joint is.

How is Basal Joint Arthritis Treated?

• Nonsurgical
  Your doctor may place a splint on your thumb for 3-6 weeks. This limits movement and helps to reduce inflammation. You may also receive a prescription for an anti-inflammatory, such as aspirin. If symptoms fail to improve, your doctor may give you injections of an anti-inflammatory, such as cortisone.
  
• Surgical
  Under a local or general anesthetic, the diseased joint is removed and the joint is then rebuilt. This is usually done with a piece of tendon, or graft, taken from your arm or wrist. You can usually go home the day of the surgery. Your hand will be wrapped in a dressing. To keep the thumb stable, you’ll also have a cast or splint on your thumb for 3-6 weeks. To help strengthen the muscles and make the joint more flexible, your doctor will give you exercises or refer you to a physical therapist once you can move your thumb.

It’s important to note that regaining use of your thumb will take time. Once healed, you should experience little or no pain as long as you don’t overuse your thumb. Be sure to do any exercises your doctor or physical therapist gives you.