Osteoarthritis of first carpometacarpal joint Save

Osteoarthritis of the First Carpometacarpal Joint: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Osteoarthritis of the first carpometacarpal joint (CMC) is a condition that affects the joint at the base of the thumb. This joint is responsible for the movement of the thumb and is essential for activities such as gripping and holding objects. Osteoarthritis of the CMC joint causes pain and stiffness in the thumb, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the First Carpometacarpal Joint

The symptoms of osteoarthritis of the CMC joint typically develop gradually and worsen over time. Some of the common symptoms include:

1. Pain in the thumb joint
2. Stiffness in the thumb joint
3. Swelling around the thumb joint
4. A grinding sensation when moving the thumb
5. A decrease in grip strength

Causes of Osteoarthritis of the First Carpometacarpal Joint

Osteoarthritis of the CMC joint is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the joint. This breakdown can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. Age-related wear and tear
2. Repetitive use of the thumb joint
3. Injuries to the thumb joint
4. Genetic factors

Treatments for Osteoarthritis of the First Carpometacarpal Joint

There are several treatments available for osteoarthritis of the CMC joint. These treatments include:

1. Rest and activity modification
2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
3. Splinting or bracing
4. Corticosteroid injections
5. Surgery

If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis of the CMC joint, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.