Understanding Thumb CMC OA & How Therapy Can Help

Symptoms of CMC OA include:

• Pain at the base of the thumb, especially with movement or gripping
• Swelling and tenderness around the joint
• Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity
• Weakness in the thumb, making it difficult to perform tasks that require fine motor skills

Several factors contribute to the development of Thumb CMC OA, including:

• Aging: Wear and tear on the joint over time can lead to degeneration
• Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing osteoarthritis
• Overuse: Repetitive thumb movements or activities that strain the joint can accelerate wear and tear
• Trauma: Injuries to the thumb or hand can increase the risk of developing CMC OA.

While thumb CMC OA can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the risk:

• Age: The risk of osteoarthritis increases with age, particularly in individuals over 40
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop CMC OA, possibly due to hormonal changes and joint laxity
• Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive thumb movements or manual labor may increase the risk
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can predispose individuals to develop CMC OA

Diagnosing Thumb CMC OA typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and imaging tests such as X-rays.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of symptoms but may include:

• Pain management with medications or injections
• Splinting to support the joint and reduce strain
• Physical & occupational therapy exercises to improve strength and range of motion, and to learn adaptive techniques for daily activities
• Surgery in severe cases to remove damaged tissue or stabilize the joint

Physical and occupational hand therapy play crucial roles in managing Thumb CMC OA symptoms and improving hand function. These therapies focus on:

• Pain relief: Through techniques like therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and modalities such as ultrasound or heat therapy
• Joint protection: Making custom orthoses (or recommending over-the-counter braces) to support the joint during activities
• Strengthening: Targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles around the thumb joint, enhancing stability and function.
• Range of motion: Gentle stretching and mobilization techniques to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
• Adaptive strategies: Learning alternative methods and tools for performing daily tasks to reduce strain on the affected joint.