Gently exercising your fingers and thumbs with a hand workout can improve their range of motion and decrease arthritis symptoms. It’s one of the best ways to maintain function and independence.
Can thumb arthritis be reversed?
In particular, early stages of thumb CMC joint arthritis may be treated nonoperatively or with less invasive surgical techniques to relieve symptoms, restore function and strength, stop the progression of the disease, and even potentially reverse the process.
What can be done for arthritis in thumb joint?
Treatment for thumb arthritis starts conservatively with the patient wearing a soft brace. If that doesn’t work, injections at the base of the palm may work. And if there still isn’t relief, surgery is an option.
What causes thumb arthritis to flare up?
The most common triggers of an OA flare are overdoing an activity or trauma to the joint. Other triggers can include bone spurs, stress, repetitive motions, cold weather, a change in barometric pressure, an infection or weight gain.
Should you exercise arthritic thumb? – Related Questions
What is stage 4 thumb arthritis?
Stage IV: All the components of stage III along with destruction of the scaphotrapezial joint. At this stage the CMC joint is usually fixed and some patients may have little to no pain. Treatment: In early stages, stage I and sometimes stage II, con- servative treatment should be considered.
Does massage help thumb arthritis?
Studies have shown that having a professional hand massage just once a week, and doing self-massage once a day, may help reduce the pain associated with many conditions, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and neuropathy.
Does thumb arthritis pain go away?
While there is no cure for arthritis in your thumb, there are various simple treatments that can help relieve symptoms for many people. Talk with a doctor or physical therapist about which treatments might work best for you.
What are the stages of thumb arthritis?
Classification
| Table 1. Eaton classification of basilar thumb arthritis7 |
|---|
| Stage | Features on plain radiographs |
|---|
| Stage I | Articular contours normal. Slight widening of joint space on X-ray. |
| Stage II | Slight narrowing of joint space. Osteophytes ≤2 mm. Scaphotrapezial joint normal on X-ray. |
Can thumb arthritis get worse?
Even though thumb arthritis will advance with time, the symptoms do not always get worse, and in some people the symptoms will decrease significantly. Nonoperative treatment for thumb arthritis can involve: Anti-inflammatory medications (consult your doctor first)
What kind of arthritis affects the thumbs?
Degenerative arthritis means that your cartilage wears down as you age. This type of arthritis in your thumb is the second most common type of arthritis in your hand and the most common kind of thumb arthritis. Other conditions like Lupus or Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause your joints to break down.
What is the best treatment for arthritis in the base of the thumb?
For basal joint arthritis, the first line of treatment is generally anti-inflammatory medications and bracing. A brace leaves your wrist free but immobilizes the bottom of your thumb, only allowing the last joint in your thumb to move.
Does a thumb brace help arthritis?
A thumb brace can help alleviate pain, increase stability, and take the stress off the joint. People with arthritis may wear a thumb brace if this area of the hand has become affected.
What does basal thumb arthritis look like?
Appearance. The thumb may appear swollen, especially at its base, and you may develop a bony bump. Overall, the base of the thumb can take on an enlarged appearance. One alarming sign of thumb arthritis is improper alignment of the joint as it shifts from its normal positioning.
How do you test for arthritis in your thumb?
One thumb arthritis test that many healthcare professionals perform involves holding the base of the thumb and moving the digit around. If the patient complains of pain, or if the movement produces a grinding sound, which is known as crepitus, thumb osteoarthritis is likely.
How do I know if I’ve got arthritis in my thumb?
The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and stiffness in your joints, which can make it difficult to move the affected joints and do certain activities. The symptoms may come and go in episodes, which can be related to your activity levels and even the weather. In more severe cases, the symptoms can be continuous.
What vitamin helps arthritis in fingers?
Vitamin D. If you have arthritis pain or are at high risk for arthritis, your doctor may recommend a vitamin D supplement. (I prefer vitamin D3.) A blood test can determine whether you have a vitamin D deficiency.
What cream is good for arthritis in the fingers?
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has approved several topical products (Voltaren, Solaraze, others) that contain the prescription NSAID diclofenac for the treatment of osteoarthritis in joints close to the skin’s surface, such as the hands and knees.
What is the best product to use for arthritis in your hands?
Analgesics, which include acetaminophen (Tylenol) and opioids, are commonly used for arthritis in the hands and other joints. They also may be used to relieve pain from other hand and wrist conditions or surgery. Unlike NSAIDs, which target both pain and inflammation, analgesics are designed purely for pain relief.
