Base of Thumb Arthritis in Katy, TX
Have you noticed pain at the base of your thumb? Do you experience difficulty with writing, turning doorknobs, or opening jars? A common cause for these kinds of symptoms is arthritis at the base of the thumb, called “Basilar Joint Arthritis”. This variation of arthritis affects the first carpometacarpal joint, which stabilizes the base of the thumb. Over time as the joint surface deteriorates, base of thumb arthritis can progress to constant pain, stiffness, and functional disability. DeQuervain’s tenosynovitis is another cause of pain on the thumb side of the wrist and can sometimes mimic basilar joint arthritis.
Understanding Base of Thumb Arthritis
Base of thumb arthritis, also known as carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis, affects the joint where the thumb meets the wrist. This condition is particularly common among individuals over 40 years old and can cause significant discomfort, especially during activities that require pinching or gripping.
Causes and Risk Factors of Base of Thumb Arthritis
Several factors contribute to the development of base of thumb arthritis, including:
- Age: As cartilage wears down with age, the risk of arthritis increases.
- Repetitive Use: Activities that require frequent pinching, gripping, or twisting can strain the thumb joint.
- Previous Injuries: Trauma to the thumb joint, such as fractures or sprains, may increase the likelihood of developing arthritis later in life.
- Genetics: There is some evidence to suggest that base of thumb arthritis may have a hereditary component, especially in individuals with a family history of osteoarthritis.
Importance of Base of Thumb Arthritis Diagnosis
Early detection of base of thumb arthritis is critical for managing symptoms and preventing further damage to the joint. Without timely diagnosis, patients may experience worsening pain, reduced grip strength, and limited motion in the thumb. At the Hand & Plastic Surgery Center of Katy, Dr. Dipan Das provides a thorough evaluation to identify the severity of the condition and customize a treatment plan that may include both non-surgical and surgical options, depending on your specific needs.
Treatment Options for Base of Thumb Arthritis
While there is no cure for arthritis, there are excellent treatment options available in Katy, TX to help alleviate your symptoms of pain and/or stiffness and regain the function of your hand.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Initially, first-line treatment involves a conservative approach including supportive splints, anti-inflammatory medication, and activity modification. For patients with persisting symptoms, a steroid injection of the affected joint can offer long-lasting relief.
Very Satisfied
“Dr Das is an excellent surgeon. He is never rushed during office visits and is easy to talk to and explain things. He even took time to discuss my wife’s arthritis in her thumbs. Very satisfied.”
Surgery for Base of Thumb Arthritis
Symptomatic thumb arthritis that does not respond to conservative treatment can benefit from surgical intervention. There are several surgical options for the treatment of basilar joint arthritis. Options include:
- Osteotomy – Repositioning of the joints
- Joint fusion – Also known as arthrodesis. Permanent fusion of the joint.
- Joint replacement – The affected joint is replaced with a graft from another tendon.
- Trapeziectomy – removal of one of the bones at the joint of the thumb.
Dr. Das, a hand and plastic surgeon in Katy, TX, will discuss with you the different options and tailor a treatment plan that best suits your needs. Dr. Das can also answer any questions you may have about the procedure and go over how to prepare for your surgery and what to expect during your recovery.
Cost and Payment Options
In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of hand surgery for the treatment of base of thumb arthritis in Katy, TX. Several factors will determine the cost of your surgery. During your consultation at The Hand & Plastic Surgery Center of Katy, Dr. Das can let you know what the expected cost of your hand surgery in Katy, TX will be and the payment options available to you.
FAQs
Can base of thumb arthritis be prevented?
While prevention isn’t always possible, reducing repetitive thumb strain, using ergonomic tools, and maintaining hand strength can help lower the risk.
How long is recovery after thumb arthritis surgery?
Recovery typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the procedure and individual health.
How can I manage pain from base of thumb arthritis?
Pain can be managed with splints, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, hand therapy, and, in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.
Is base of thumb arthritis hereditary?
Genetics can play a role, especially for those with a family history of osteoarthritis.
Can base of thumb arthritis cause other hand problems?
If untreated, it can lead to reduced grip strength, deformities, or compensatory pain in other parts of the hand.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you think you may have arthritis at the base of the thumb, we invite you to put your hands in our hands. Contact The Hand & Plastic Surgery Center of Katy at 832-232-HAND (4263) to schedule an appointment with Dr. Das, your hand surgery specialist. Dr. Das is a board-certified plastic surgeon and certified hand surgeon who strives to provide our patients with the personalized surgical care they need.
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