If opening jars, turning keys or pinching small objects brings a sharp ache at the base of your thumb, you may be dealing with thumb-base arthritis. It is one of the most common sites of arthritis in the hand, and while it can be frustrating, there are practical things that help.
Understanding what is happening at the joint, and why certain tasks flare it, makes it easier to manage day to day. Here is what thumb-base arthritis is, why it happens, what tends to help, and when it is worth seeing a physio or hand therapist.
- What is thumb-base arthritis?
- Who tends to get it?
- What are the symptoms?
- Which everyday tasks make it worse?
- What helps thumb-base arthritis?
- When should you see a physio or hand therapist?
- Helping You Perform at Your Best
What is thumb-base arthritis?
Thumb-base arthritis is osteoarthritis of the joint at the base of the thumb, known as the carpometacarpal or CMC joint. This joint gives your thumb its wide range of movement and takes significant load every time you pinch or grip. Over time, the cartilage in the joint can wear, which can lead to pain, stiffness and reduced grip and pinch strength.
It is one of the most common sites of hand osteoarthritis. Its radiographic prevalence has been reported at around 7 percent in men and 15 percent in women. Importantly, many people have joint changes with only mild symptoms, so the picture varies a lot from person to person.
Who tends to get it?
Thumb-base arthritis is more common in women and is strongly associated with increasing age. That said, it is not only an older person’s problem, and load from certain occupations and hobbies can play a role. Because outcomes and symptoms vary so much, an individual assessment is more useful than assuming the worst.
What are the symptoms?
The typical picture is pain at the base of the thumb, often on the thumb side of the wrist, that is worse with pinching and gripping. Common features include:
- Aching or sharp pain at the base of the thumb with pinch and grip
- Reduced grip and pinch strength
- Stiffness, especially after rest or first thing in the morning
- Sometimes a swollen or squared-off appearance at the base of the thumb
If you notice significant weakness, locking, or pain that is severe and constant, it is worth getting assessed to guide the right plan.
Which everyday tasks make it worse?
Certain repeated pinch and grip tasks tend to flare thumb-base arthritis. Common culprits include opening jars and bottles, turning keys and doorknobs, wringing out cloths, using scissors or secateurs, and long periods of typing or device use. Recognising your personal triggers is a useful first step, because small changes to how you do these tasks can reduce the load on the joint.
What helps thumb-base arthritis?
Most people can manage thumb-base arthritis well without surgery, particularly with a considered approach. A typical plan includes:
- Adjusting how you grip and pinch to spread load off the joint
- Using tools and aids that reduce pinch force, such as jar openers and larger grips
- A supportive thumb brace for painful tasks, where helpful
- Targeted strengthening and movement for the thumb and hand
Many people improve their comfort and function with a combination of joint protection, supportive strategies and exercise. A hand therapist or physio can tailor these to your hand and the tasks that matter to you.
When should you see a physio or hand therapist?
See a physio or hand therapist if thumb pain is limiting your grip, work, hobbies or daily tasks, is not settling, or you want a clear plan to protect the joint. An assessment can confirm what is going on and give you practical strategies and exercises tailored to you.
Helping You Perform at Your Best
Thumb-base arthritis can be frustrating, especially when it affects your grip, your work and the everyday tasks you rely on.
At Ace Sports Medicine in Upper Mount Gravatt, our physiotherapists provide personalised hand and thumb care across Brisbane’s southside, including joint-protection strategies, supportive options and tailored exercise. Your first appointment includes an assessment and a starter plan so you know your next step.
Need support for thumb pain? Book an appointment with the Ace Sports Medicine team today.