Osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal joint is a common cause of thumb pain in patients with degenerative joint disease and/or overuse injuries.
Osteoarthritis of the carpometacarpal joint is a common cause of thumb pain in patients with degenerative joint disease and/or overuse injuries. With the increasing popularity of cell phone use, there is a corresponding increase in thumb-related pathology. Osteoarthritis represents one such overuse syndrome.
The second most common location in the hand where patients develop osteoarthritis is their thumb trapeziometacarpal joint. Unfortunately for those suffering, the CMC joint is involved with flexion, extension, adduction, abduction, and opposition of the thumb. Etiology Upwards of 25% of women over the age of 50 will develop thumb carpometacarpal joint arthritis.
The CMC joint is a bicon-cavoconvex joint (reciprocal saddle) that relies on capsular ligaments, intrinsic, and extrinsic hand muscles as the primary joint restraints. This differs from most joints that typically have more bony constraint. Al hypothesized that ligamentous laxity leads to the development of shearing forces in the joint leading to degeneration of the articular cartilage.
The main culprit is weakness of the anterior oblique ligament of the joint. Patient’s with Ehler-Danlos were found to have arthritic changes in their CMC joint as early as age 15. Physical Exam A patient with pain at the base of the thumb that is worsened with pinching will clue a physician in on the CMC joint.
Other common complaints are pain with opening jars, weakness in pinch strength, and cramping in the hand. On examination, the physician may find soft tissue swelling on inspection of the joint and patients typically have pain with palpation over the joint. Pain at the CMC can also be exacerbated with the grind test.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to a review on cmc joint arthritis, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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