Carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis

Carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis – this condition is a form of osteoarthritis that affects the joint at the base of the thumb. This condition is commonly seen in occupations that involve repetitive gripping, lifting, pushing, or pulling.

As with all arthritic conditions, signs and symptoms present in an older population. Signs/symptoms include pain with opening a door or jar, loss of grip strength, tenderness at the base of the thumb.

Treatment
Treatment initially is conservative or nonsurgical and includes steroid injections, anti-inflammatory medicines, splinting, and activity modifications.

Surgery
Surgical intervention is reserved for patients who have failed conservative treatment and includes stabilizing the joint if instability is the cause of the pain either with soft tissue or fusion of the joint, or replacing the joint with a soft tissue padding.