What Is Thumb Arthritis and How Is It Treated?

Thumb pain can start subtly—maybe your grip weakens, or it stings when opening jars. However, when these issues become persistent, the culprit may be thumb arthritis, one of the most common types of arthritis in the hand. Understanding this condition and the variety of thumb arthritis treatment options available can help you regain control and ease.

So, let’s break it down: what is arthritis in the thumb joint, what causes it, and how can you manage it?

What Is Thumb Arthritis?

Thumb arthritis, also called basal thumb arthritis, happens when the cartilage at the base of your thumb—the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint—wears down. This cartilage acts like a cushion between the bones. As it deteriorates, bones can rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced function.

This form of arthritis is usually osteoarthritis, which comes from everyday wear and tear rather than autoimmune causes. The thumb is especially susceptible because we use it constantly—pinching, gripping, twisting.

What Are The Symptoms of Arthritis in the Thumb?

Not sure if your thumb discomfort is arthritis? Common symptoms include:

• Pain at the base of the thumb, especially when gripping or pinching

• Swelling, stiffness, or tenderness

• Weak grip or difficulty with everyday tasks like opening containers

• A bony bump at the base of the thumb

• Clicking or grinding in the joint

These signs often worsen with use and may be confused with other hand conditions. A healthcare provider can help clarify.

What Causes Thumb Arthritis?

There isn’t just one reason behind arthritis in the thumb. Several factors can contribute:

• Aging: The most common factor, as cartilage naturally wears down.

• Genetics: If arthritis runs in your family, your risk increases.

• Gender: Women are more likely to develop it, particularly after age 40.

• Overuse: Repetitive thumb motions or past injuries to the joint.

• Other arthritis conditions: People with rheumatoid arthritis or other types of arthritis in hands are more prone to thumb arthritis.

Diagnosing Arthritis in the Thumb Joint

A proper diagnosis is key. A clinician will typically perform a physical exam, asking you to move your thumb in certain ways to test pain and mobility. They may also press on the joint to assess tenderness.

To confirm, imaging like an X-ray might be used. It can show whether cartilage loss or bone spurs are present, which confirms arthritis in the thumb joint.

Thumb Arthritis Treatment Options

Whether your symptoms are mild or more severe, there are effective ways to carry out thumb arthritis treatment. The goal is to reduce pain, maintain function, and improve quality of life.

Lifestyle Adjustments

• Rest and joint protection: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.

• Warm compresses or ice: Helps reduce pain and swelling.

• Thumb splints: Worn at night or during activities to support the joint.

Non-Surgical Therapies

• Compression gloves for arthritis can provide warmth and support.

• Medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce pain and inflammation.

• Corticosteroid injections: For more intense flares, your doctor may recommend this.

Mind-Body Approaches

For those seeking drug-free, immediate tools, hypnosis for pain relief is a powerful option backed by decades of science. Reveri offers self-hypnosis sessions that target pain directly by altering the brain’s perception of it. It’s fast, noninvasive, and surprisingly effective.

Surgical Options

In advanced cases, surgery may be recommended. Procedures can include joint fusion or replacing parts of the joint. Surgery is typically considered when all other options fail.

Living with Thumb Arthritis

Daily life with basal thumb arthritis can be manageable with the right support. Some tips:

• Use adaptive tools designed for reduced hand strength.

• Avoid overusing the thumb with heavy lifting or repetitive pinching.

• Maintain hand mobility through gentle exercises.

• Stay informed and don’t hesitate to explore new approaches to relief.

It’s also worth noting that arthritis may affect multiple joints in the body. If you're also dealing with shoulder arthritis, a holistic pain management strategy is especially helpful.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How Do I Know If I Have Arthritis In My Thumb?

  Look for pain or stiffness at the base of your thumb, especially when pinching or gripping. A medical exam and X-ray can confirm the diagnosis.

• How Do You Treat Arthritis In The Thumb?

  Treatment includes rest, splints, anti-inflammatories, compression gloves for arthritis, and options like hypnosis for pain relief. Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist.

• What Is The Best Exercise For Thumb Arthritis?

  Gentle thumb stretches and opposition exercises (touching thumb to each finger) help maintain flexibility.

• What Can Be Mistaken For Thumb Arthritis?

  Tendonitis, ligament injuries, or radiating pain from shoulder arthritis can mimic the symptoms. Only a clinical evaluation can rule them out.

If you’re living with thumb pain, know there’s hope—and it doesn’t always have to involve medications or invasive treatments. At Reveri, we’re here to support alternative options rooted in science. Our self-hypnosis app can help you manage pain naturally and effectively.

Curious to see how it works? Start your journey at Reveri.