What Is Thumb Arthritis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Are you experiencing pain at the base of your thumb when you grip, pinch, or open jars? This discomfort is often mistaken for simple overuse, but it could actually be thumb arthritis. The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, at the base of the thumb, is one of the most common places to develop arthritis in the hand. If left untreated, it can significantly affect hand function.

You can find relief and restore normal hand function by understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Patients seeking help for thumb arthritis in San Antonio often benefit from an early diagnosis and specialized care.

What is Thumb Arthritis?

Thumb arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the thumb joint wears away. Without this smooth surface, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced motion. Because the thumb is essential for gripping and fine motor tasks, arthritis in this joint can affect everything from buttoning a shirt to turning a doorknob.

Symptoms of Thumb Arthritis

The symptoms of thumb arthritis often develop gradually. Many people first notice pain at the base of the thumb, especially during gripping or pinching motions. Over time, swelling and stiffness may set in, making everyday movements more difficult. Some patients report weakness when twisting objects, as well as a grinding or clicking sound when moving the joint. Left untreated, symptoms may become constant rather than activity-related.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to the development of thumb arthritis, including:

• Age

• Repetitive thumb use

• Previous injuries

• Genetics

• Gender – women over 40 are more likely to develop thumb arthritis.

How Thumb Arthritis is Diagnosed

A hand specialist can usually diagnose thumb arthritis with a physical exam and a discussion of your symptoms. They may test your thumb’s range of motion and strength, or apply pressure to see where pain occurs. In many cases, X-rays are also ordered to look for cartilage loss, bone spurs, or changes in the joint that confirm arthritis. If you’re searching for arthritis treatment in San Antonio, a specialist evaluation is the first step toward relief.

Treatment Options for Thumb Arthritis

Nonsurgical Treatments

Most patients find relief with nonsurgical approaches, including:

• Splints or braces to support and rest the joint.

• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.

• Steroid injections for longer-lasting relief.

• Activity modification to limit painful movements.

• Hand therapy exercises to maintain mobility and strength.

These are common first-line approaches for those looking for CMC arthritis treatment in San Antonio.

Surgical Treatments

If symptoms are severe and nonsurgical treatments fail, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options include:

• Joint reconstruction (ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition) - replacing damaged tissue with a tendon graft.

• Joint fusion - permanently joining bones to eliminate painful movement.

These procedures are tailored to each patient’s needs and activity level, and they can provide long-term relief for patients dealing with advanced thumb arthritis.

When to See a Specialist

If thumb joint pain is interfering with your daily activities or worsening despite home care, it may be time to see a hand specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve joint function and improve quality of life. With access to advanced arthritis treatment in San Antonio, patients can find options that relieve pain, restore function, and improve quality of life.

If you're noticing any of these warning signs, schedule a visit with one of our hand and wrist specialists at Ortho San Antonio to get the care you need.

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MEET DR. MICHAEL JONES, OUR HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY SPECIALIST

Dr. Michael Jones is a board-certified hand surgeon at Ortho San Antonio with decades of experience treating complex conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and lower arm. Known for his surgical expertise and patient-first approach, Dr. Jones offers advanced care for everything from nerve injuries and fractures to arthritis and congenital deformities.

Whether you're struggling with chronic hand pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, a sports-related fracture, or thumb arthritis, Dr. Jones is here to help you find lasting relief. He’s committed to guiding patients through their treatment options with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Jones today and take the first step toward better hand and upper extremity health.