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Expert care and relief for thumb joint arthritis
Carpometacarpal (CMC) Arthritis & Thumb Reconstruction
If you find it unusually difficult or painful to open jars, move your thumb to the base of your small finger, or just get a firm grasp on something, you may be suffering from arthritis of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. Luckily, there are several methods of non-surgical and surgical treatment that can bring relief.
Schedule An Appointment!
Dr. Abeyewardene
OSSO South
10001 S. Western, Suite 101
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Common CMC Arthritis Signs, Symptoms and Complaints
CMC arthritis has several telltale signs. Here are some common symptoms and complaints you might notice:
- Thumb pain and difficulty when you try to open jars or lids
- Stiffness, swelling and pain at your thumb’s base
- Difficulty touching your thumb tip to your small finger
- Weakness when pinching or grasping
- Decreased thumb range of motion
What is CMC Arthritis?
CMC arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the joint at the base of your thumb – the CMC joint – is worn away. This may sound trivial, but the pain can be severe. Cartilage provides a smooth gliding surface between your bones, so when it is worn down, the result can be the painful grinding of bone-on-bone. This often occurs gradually, over many years.
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How Dr. Abeye Treats CMC Arthritis
CMC Arthritis is Highly Treatable
At Dr. Abeye’s clinic, we always begin with the most conservative, non-surgical approaches, increasing intervention levels as necessary to achieve relief from pain, increased strength and range of motion.
Non-Operative CMC Arthritis Intervention: Bracing
A thumb brace, combined with NSAID medications, ice and heat can help relieve symptoms.
Non-Surgical CMC Arthritis Intervention: Steroid Injection
A steroid injection into the joint can decrease inflammation and offer pain relief.
Surgical CMC Arthritis Treatment: Thumb Reconstruction
In advanced cases, CMC joint or thumb reconstruction surgery can provide long-term pain relief.
What to Expect
When you schedule an appointment with Dr. Abeye to investigate possible CMC arthritis in our Oklahoma City clinic, you can expect a thorough examination of your hands and wrists, imaging (if necessary), a conversation about your symptoms and education about what is likely happening. You’ll receive a diagnosis, plan of action and braces, medications or injections if necessary.
If you’re ready for relief, give us a call to schedule your appointment.
Are Your Symptoms Different?
If your symptoms differ from those discussed above, you may be suffering from a different disorder. Here are some other common conditions that may be a better match.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Hand and finger numbness caused by tightening of the wrist’s carpal tunnel.
Arthritis
Pain, swelling, loss of range of motion and grinding sensations in the joints.
De Quervain’s
Pain on the thumb side of the wrist, especially when twisting or gripping.
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Hand, Wrist & Elbow Specialist
Hand, Wrist & Elbow Orthopedic Expertise
About Our Office
Dr. Abeye is an experienced orthopedic hand surgeon, dedicated to – and fascinated by – the intricacies of the fingers, hands, wrists and elbows.
Patient Info
Find information about splint and cast care, pain management and more on our patient resource page.
Reach Out
Our office staff is here to help with whatever you need. Please don’t hesitate to call with your questions, concerns, or just to schedule your next appointment!