THUMB OSTEOARTHRITIS

Thumb Osteoarthritis
Overview
Thumb (CMC joint) osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage at the base of the thumb deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty with gripping.
It’s especially common in adults over 40 and in individuals who perform repetitive pinching or gripping tasks.
Signs & Symptoms
- Pain or stiffness at the base of the thumb
- Difficulty gripping, pinching, or opening jars
- Swelling or tenderness around the thumb joint
- Grinding or clicking sensation with movement
- Decreased thumb strength or mobility
Causes
- Repetitive stress or overuse of the thumb
- Natural wear and tear with aging
- Poor wrist and hand mechanics
- Prior injury or joint instability
- Occupational or recreational overuse
How a Chiropractor Can Help
At Unify Rehab & Performance, we perform a comprehensive hand and wrist assessment to determine the degree of degeneration and contributing mechanical factors.
Treatment may include:
- Gentle joint mobilizations to maintain range of motion.
- Soft tissue therapy to relieve tension around the thumb and wrist.
- Acupuncture to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Rehabilitation focusing on grip strength, joint support, and thumb stability.
- Education on ergonomic aids, activity modification, and joint protection.
Our hands-on and rehab-based approach helps manage symptoms, preserve function, and maintain hand strength for daily activities.