Introduction
Thumb arthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and limited mobility in the hand and wrist. When the thumb joint becomes arthritic, even simple daily tasks—like opening jars, typing, or turning keys—can become difficult. For patients searching for thumb arthritis surgery in Duluth, GA, Dr. Thomas Neustein, a board-certified orthopedic hand surgeon, provides expert care. His treatment plans range from conservative care to advanced surgical procedures when non-surgical treatment fails.
What Is Thumb Arthritis?
Thumb arthritis, also called carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis, develops when the cartilage covering the affected joint wears down. This wear and tear arthritis leads to painful bone-on-bone contact, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes bone spurs. Because the thumb is central to grip and pinch strength, an arthritic joint in this location can severely limit mobility and hand function.
Causes and Risk Factors
Thumb arthritis is most often caused by natural aging and repetitive use. Other causes include rheumatoid arthritis, previous thumb injuries, or genetic factors. Women over 40 are especially at risk of developing arthritis of the hand.
Symptoms to Watch For
Patients with thumb arthritis may experience:
- Pain at the base of the thumb when gripping or pinching
- Swelling and tenderness around the arthritic joint
- Weak grip strength and limited mobility
- A visible bump or deformity from bone spurs
Over time, discomfort can interfere with both fine motor skills and everyday hand and wrist activities.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Orthopedic hand surgeons diagnose thumb arthritis through physical examination and imaging. X-rays often reveal loss of cartilage, calcium deposits, or abnormal bone changes. When non-surgical treatment fails to control symptoms, different surgical procedures may be discussed to relieve pain and restore function.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Early treatment focuses on relieving pain and preserving function. Options include:
- Thumb splints to support surrounding ligaments
- Anti-inflammatory medications to decrease swelling
- Steroid injections to calm inflammation and provide temporary relief
- Therapy and activity modifications to protect the hand and wrist
When splints and steroid injections are no longer enough and non-surgical treatment fails, surgery is often the best next step.
Surgical Procedures for Thumb Arthritis
Orthopaedic surgeons may recommend several different surgical procedures, depending on the severity of disease:
- Joint reconstruction: Removing damaged bone and reconstructing the joint to restore stability.
- Arthroplasty (joint replacement): Replacing the worn joint with an artificial implant.
- Fusion surgery: Stabilizing the joint by fusing bones together to eliminate motion and pain.
Revision surgery may be required in rare cases of failed previous arthroplasty.
How Surgery Helps
Surgery eliminates the painful arthritic joint, relieving pain and improving hand function. The choice of procedure is tailored to patient age, activity level, and goals. For many patients in Duluth, surgery eliminates daily discomfort and restores quality of life.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Program
After surgery, patients usually wear a postoperative splint while the joint reconstruction heals properly. A structured rehabilitation program follows, designed to help the affected joint heal, strengthen surrounding ligaments, and restore range of motion. With time, patients regain strength and use of the hand and wrist.
Everyday Life After Surgery
Most patients notice long-term pain relief and better function. Surgery eliminates the constant irritation of an arthritic joint, relieving pain that once limited mobility. Everyday activities—like cooking, writing, or carrying groceries—become easier and more comfortable.
Other Conditions Treated
Dr. Neustein also treats a wide range of orthopedic surgery problems, including trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis of the hand, and elbow surgery. Many procedures are performed in-office or at Northside Hospital for patients in Duluth and the surrounding Georgia communities.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Pennsylvania, earned his medical degree at Emory University School of Medicine, and completed his orthopedic residency training at Emory University. His residency included rotations at the Veterans Affairs Hospital, Grady Memorial Hospital, and the Emory University Hospitals. He went on to complete subspecialty fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery at the Philadelphia Hand to Shoulder Center, affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University. Dr. Neustein has also published orthopedic research, reflecting his dedication to advancing the field of orthopaedic surgery. Patients choose him for his clear communication, skilled care, and commitment to relieving pain through both non-surgical and surgical solutions.
Schedule Your Appointment in Duluth, GA
If you are considering thumb arthritis surgery in Duluth, GA and conservative care has not provided lasting relief, surgical procedures may offer the solution. Contact our Duluth office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Neustein and learn more about your treatment options.
