Thumb CMC arthritis is one of the most common causes of hand and wrist pain for patients in Cumming GA and across North Georgia, especially when everyday activities become difficult or painful. Many patients move forward with evaluation at the Dawsonville office, where Dr. Thomas Neustein, a board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity doctor, provides expert diagnosis and treatment. Patients benefit from a specialist dedicated to hand, wrist, and upper extremity care.
Understanding Thumb CMC Arthritis
Thumb CMC arthritis affects the carpometacarpal joint at the base of the thumb. This affected joint is responsible for pinch, grip, and fine movement. When cartilage wears down, the bones rub together, resulting in inflammation, swelling, and stiffness.
Why Thumb Arthritis Occurs
Thumb arthritis often occurs from repeated thumb motion, age-related wear, osteoarthritis, or previous injuries. Some patients develop symptoms due to underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, which can accelerate joint damage. Women are more vulnerable, though men are also affected. This condition can develop in several types of patterns depending on the joints involved.
Symptoms of CMC Arthritis
Common symptoms include thumb pain, reduced motion, weakness, stiffness, and difficulty gripping objects. Some patients also experience wrist pain, especially when lifting, typing, or performing sports or repetitive tasks.
How the Wrist and Thumb Work Together
The thumb CMC joint and wrist joint work together during gripping and lifting. When arthritis develops, surrounding ligaments and tendons compensate for the affected joint, which may slow movement and create added hand and wrist discomfort.
Diagnosing Thumb CMC Arthritis
Diagnosis includes a clinical examination, x rays to evaluate bones and joints, and assessment of severity. Imaging helps determine whether bone spurs, joint narrowing, or structural damage are present.
Non Surgical Treatment Options
Many patients improve with non surgical treatment options. These include splints, injections, physical therapy, hand therapy, and activity modification to reduce strain on the joint and slow symptom progression.
Splints and Bracing
Splints limit painful movement and support surrounding ligaments. They can be helpful during light activities, work tasks, and sports. Some patients may also benefit from a short-term cast to stabilize the thumb during flare-ups.
Injections for Pain Relief
Injections reduce swelling and pain. They can delay the need for surgical removal of arthritic tissue and help patients continue normal activities.
Physical Therapy and Hand Therapy
Therapy strengthens surrounding muscles and improves motion in both the wrist and thumb. Rehabilitation helps reduce stiffness and support long-term function.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
If symptoms worsen or conservative treatments fail, surgery may be considered. A hand surgeon evaluates severity, joint condition, and patient goals to determine the most appropriate option.
CMC Arthroplasty Procedures
CMC arthroplasty removes damaged joint surfaces and reconstructs the joint to restore function and reduce pain. This option is commonly used for advanced arthritis and provides reliable results.
Surgical Intervention at Northside Forsyth
Surgery is performed at Northside Hospital Forsyth, offering patients from Cumming GA access to an advanced operating room, experienced staff, and high-quality postoperative support.
Recovery After Thumb Surgery
Recovery involves a period of immobilization followed by structured rehabilitation. Most patients regain strength and motion gradually over several weeks as healing progresses.
Rehabilitation and Motion
Rehabilitation after surgery focuses on restoring motion, improving strength, and preventing stiffness. A structured plan helps guide patients through the healing process.
How Thumb Arthritis Affects Activities
Thumb arthritis can affect daily tasks such as typing, gripping, cooking, and lifting. Early treatment helps reduce pain and prevent worsening symptoms.
Conditions Often Seen With Thumb Arthritis
Patients with thumb arthritis may also experience tendon irritation, ligament injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, or wrist fractures from falls or overuse patterns.
Why Cumming Patients Choose Dr. Neustein
Patients from Cumming choose Dr. Neustein because he is an orthopedic doctor specializing in hand, wrist, and upper extremity care. His Dawsonville office offers easy access, and his experience allows him to develop individualized treatment plans that provide reliable results.
Expert Care for Upper Extremity Arthritis
Dr. Neustein treats patients with early arthritis, advanced degeneration, tendon and ligament injuries, and post-traumatic conditions. His goal is to help each patient move forward with reduced pain and improved function.
Schedule a Visit
Patients seeking thumb CMC arthritis treatment in Cumming GA can schedule an appointment at the Dawsonville office for evaluation, imaging review, and personalized care.
