OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE THUMB BASE
Wear of the thumb saddle joint
Osteoarthritis of the thumb base affects the cartilage surfaces between the first metacarpal and the trapezium (os trapezium). The cartilage wears away until at some point it is used up completely; bone then rubs on bone and causes pain at the base of the thumb. As it progresses the joint becomes thicker. This can be caused by the inflammation, by new bone forming, or by the deformity. Osteoarthritis of the thumb saddle joint is one of the most common degenerative conditions of the hand. It occurs more often in women than in men, and more in middle and older age.
Symptoms
Opening a bottle or wringing out a cloth is frequently no longer possible because of pain or lack of strength
Pain in the thumb
Gripping firmly between thumb and fingers causes pain to shoot in.
Lack of strength in the hand
Because of the pain, gripping firmly is not possible.
Deformity of the thumb
As the joint stiffens more and more, the thumb can no longer be moved away from the hand.
How is osteoarthritis of the thumb base diagnosed?
The thickening at the base of the thumb or the deformity of the thumb often already suggests osteoarthritis from the outside. To confirm the diagnosis and assess its extent, an X-ray or a cone beam CT should nevertheless be carried out. This also allows the treatment, and in particular an operation, to be planned.
Treatment options for osteoarthritis of the thumb base
Treatment depends on the symptoms, on the stage of the condition and on the individual needs of the patient. The aim is to relieve pain, preserve function and make everyday life easier to manage again.
Treatment options
Non-surgical and surgical – we will find the right approach for you
Orthoses and splints
A special thumb splint stabilises the thumb saddle joint and takes load off it, which can markedly reduce the pain when the thumb is used.
Injection with the patient's own blood
An injection of prepared autologous blood (PRP/ACP) can relieve pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis of the thumb base, particularly at early stages.
Injection with hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is injected in order to improve the gliding in the joint and relieve pain, as it supports the natural lubrication of the joint and reduces friction.
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy reduces the painful inflammation in the joint.
Implanting a prosthesis
Replacing the worn joint with an artificial one
Trapeziectomy with suspension arthroplasty
Removing the trapezium and stabilising the joint with a tendon
Our hand specialists
Experienced consultants for osteoarthritis of the thumb base and hand surgery
