What is CMC Arthritis?

CMC arthritis is a condition that affects the joint at the base of your thumb. This joint is called the first carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. When arthritis develops here, it can make everyday activities painful and difficult. Tasks such as gripping a door handle, writing, or pinching small objects can become uncomfortable. CMC arthritis is quite common, especially among older adults. Women are much more likely to develop it than men. The condition usually worsens over time, so early recognition is important for managing symptoms and maintaining hand function.

Anatomy of the First Carpometacarpal (CMC) Joint

The first CMC joint is the place where the thumb connects with the wrist. This joint lets the thumb move freely in a variety of directions. It is quite important for grasping, pinching, and carrying things. Cartilage cushions the bones and allows for easy movement, hence supporting the joint. The thumb is stabilized during use by ligaments all around the joint, especially the ulnar collateral ligament and the anterior oblique ligament. When this joint is functioning properly, you hardly see it. But arthritis's loss of cartilage and ligament damage can cause basic motions unpleasant.

Causes and Risk Factors of CMC Arthritis

Wear and tear over time, also known as osteoarthritis, is the primary cause of CMC arthritis. Bone rubbing on bone results from progressive cartilage deterioration which protects the bones. This results in discomfort and swelling. Particularly after the age of 40, women are more likely to develop CMC arthritis. Repetitive thumb use, past injuries to the thumb or wrist, and obesity are further risk-increasing elements. Weak or loose ligaments also increase the susceptibility of the joint to arthritis and lower its stability.

Common causes and risk factors include:

• Age-related cartilage wear (osteoarthritis)
  
• Female gender, particularly after 40 years of age
  
• Repetitive thumb or wrist activities
  
• Previous trauma or injury to the thumb
  
• Obesity
  
• Ligament laxity or weakness around the thumb joint
  
  

How Does CMC Arthritis Affect the Joint?

In CMC arthritis, the cartilage that cushions the joint begins to break down. Without this protection, the bones in the joint rub directly against each other. This friction causes swelling and pain. The ligaments supporting the joint may stretch or become damaged, which leads to instability. Over time, the joint can develop bony growths called bone spurs. These changes make it harder to move the thumb smoothly. Stiffness and reduced strength follow, impacting your ability to use your hand effectively.

Symptoms of CMC Arthritis

People with CMC arthritis often notice several symptoms that affect their thumb and hand. The pain is usually felt at the base of the thumb and tends to worsen with activities involving gripping or pinching. The joint can become swollen and tender to touch. Many find their grip strength weak, making it difficult to hold objects firmly. Movements may become stiff or limited. Some even experience grinding or popping sounds when moving the thumb. A visible bony lump might develop near the joint as the arthritis progresses.

Key symptoms include:

• Pain, swelling or tenderness at the thumb base
  
• Sharp or burning pain during gripping or pinching
  
• Stiffness and limited range of motion
  
• Weakness in grip and pinch strength
  
• Grinding or popping noises in the joint
  
• Noticeable bony enlargement near the thumb base
  
  

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Most people start managing CMC arthritis with non-surgical treatments. These aim to relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve hand function. Adjusting daily activities to avoid stressing the thumb joint can help. Wearing a thumb splint or brace limits movement and supports the joint, easing discomfort. Ice packs applied regularly can reduce swelling. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen may be useful. Physical therapy exercises strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve flexibility. Sometimes, corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief when other methods are not enough. Some people also find herbal remedies such as turmeric helpful alongside conventional treatments.

Common non-surgical treatments include:

• Activity modification to avoid thumb strain
  
• Thumb splints or braces for joint support
  
• Ice therapy to reduce swelling and pain
  
• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
  
• Topical pain relief creams or gels
  
• Corticosteroid injections for inflammation control
  
• Physical and occupational therapy exercises
  
• Anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric and ginger
  
  

When Is Surgery Necessary?

If non-surgical treatments fail to relieve symptoms and pain becomes severe, surgery may be considered. Surgery aims to reduce pain and restore function in the thumb. The two common procedures are joint fusion and trapeziectomy with tendon reconstruction. Joint fusion stabilises the joint by permanently joining the bones, which reduces pain but limits movement. Trapeziectomy involves removing part of the damaged joint and using a tendon to rebuild support, which maintains some motion. Your surgeon will discuss options based on your symptoms and lifestyle needs to find the best approach.

Also read : What is an Acute Wrist Injury

Living with CMC Arthritis

Living with CMC arthritis means managing pain and protecting the thumb joint in everyday life. Using ergonomic tools like jar openers, spring-loaded scissors, or pen grips can reduce stress on the joint. Regular hand exercises improve strength and flexibility, making daily tasks easier. Taking breaks from repetitive activities helps prevent flare-ups. Wearing a splint during activities that strain the thumb can limit discomfort. Staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers ensures the best possible quality of life despite the condition.

Recommended Supportive Products for CMC Arthritis

If you’re dealing with CMC arthritis, using the right support can make a big difference. VibrantFit UK has some great options designed to help ease thumb pain and keep your joint stable. Their ErgoThumb Spica Splint wraps comfortably around the thumb, giving solid support without making your hand feel restricted. They also offer a variety of Thumb Spica Splints that are adjustable and made from breathable materials, perfect for wearing throughout the day. These supports are comfortable to wear and built to last, making them a good choice for managing CMC arthritis in daily life.

Conclusion

CMC arthritis can significantly impact daily life by making simple hand movements painful and difficult. While it is common, especially among older women, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms effectively. Non-surgical options like splints, medication, and therapy often provide relief, but surgery may be necessary in severe cases. With proper care and lifestyle adjustments, many people with CMC arthritis continue to maintain good hand function and quality of life. If you experience persistent thumb pain or stiffness, consulting a healthcare professional is important to get the right support.