Is pain at the base of your thumb making daily tasks harder? You might be experiencing Thumb Carpometacarpal Joint (CMCJ) Osteoarthritis – a common condition that can affect your grip, limit your independence, and put a pause on the activities you enjoy.
The good news? You’re not alone – and you’re not without support. At our hand therapy practice, we specialise in managing thumb arthritis through personalised, evidence-based therapy.
Why Is the Thumb So Important?
Your thumb contributes to over 60% of hand function. The base of your thumb carries incredible functional load. Every time you pinch, twist, pull, or hold something, the CMC joint is hard at work, and that work adds up. Over time, wear and tear can lead to degenerative changes in the cartilage, swelling, and instability in the joint. CMC joint Osteoarthritis is also associated with narrowing joint space, bone spurs and swelling of the joint capsule all of which contribute to the pain you feel.
When the cartilage at the base wears down, this can lead to:
- Aching or sharp pain at the base of the thumb
- Stiffness and reduced movement
- Swelling or a bony bump
- Weak pinch or grip strength
- Difficulty with tasks like opening jars, writing, holding phone, or turning a key.
How Hand Therapy Can Help
As experienced hand therapists, we take a holistic and hands-on approach to managing CMCJ osteoarthritis. Here’s how we can help support your recovery and long-term joint health:
Custom Splinting – Made on the Spot
One of the cornerstones of managing thumb OA is protecting the joint during daily use. In your initial appointment, we can design and fabricate a custom thermoplastic splint right there in the clinic. These splints:
- Support and stabilise the joint
- Reduce pain during daily tasks
- Minimise joint strain without limiting function
We also offer off-the-shelf braces specifically designed for people with CMC joint arthritis.
Functional Assessment & Strength Testing
We don’t just treat symptoms, we assess what’s happening underneath. Our sessions include:
- Review and analysis of X-rays where available
- Detailed evaluation of pinch/grip strength
- Identification of aggravating tasks and movement patterns
- Monitoring of joint alignment, ROM and any signs of joint subluxation
Empowering You with Knowledge & Tools
Our skilled therapists can provide you with joint protection strategies tailored to your lifestyle and hobbies, plus safe ways to stay active without overloading the thumb joint.
Strengthening & Stability
Strengthening the muscles around the thumb and wrist requires consistent and progressive work. It’s important to ensure you’re performing exercises correctly, not overloading the joint, and gradually building strength in targeted thumb muscles where it’s needed most. Your therapist will introduce exercises at your appointments to avoid flare-ups and maximise effectiveness.
Return to Life, on Your Terms
With our help, you can reduce your pain, protect your thumb, and maintain the freedom to enjoy your daily life, whether that’s gardening, yoga, playing with grandkids, or simply writing without discomfort.
Collaborative Care with Your GP
Following your appointment, we communicate with your GP by letter to ensure collaborative care in managing your symptoms. Whether that involves exploring anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, or considering further imaging, we keep your GP informed.
Time to Take the Next Step
If thumb pain is interfering with your lifestyle or work, don’t wait for it to get worse. We’ll work with you to build a personalised plan that supports your goals.
GP Referrals Welcome
We welcome referrals for assessment and conservative management of thumb CMCJ osteoarthritis. Our services include splint fabrication, functional assessments, and tailored exercise programs. Referring your patient for hand therapy can support conservative care goals.
