Painful thumb

Do you suffer from pain at the base of your thumb?
You are not alone.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 12 men over 70 suffer from osteoarthritis at the base of their thumb!

Osteoarthritis is a common cause of pain at the base of the thumb, usually occurring from middle age. Several joints in the hand can be affected by osteoarthritis, however the CMCJ is the most common. 

OA occurs when the cartilage on the surface of the joints wears away, small bony growths on the side of the joint occur, the joint surfaces come closer together and supportive ligaments become lax. The joint becomes unstable and painful to move or take any force.

Hand Therapy can be very helpful in decreasing acute pain by splinting for a few weeks, or by assisting longer term stability with targeted stretching and strengthening exercises. And providing education about the condition, and how best to use your hands in everyday activities to avoid agitation.

Some people will benefit from night or day / work splints to help position joints for the longer term.
We also work closely with hand plastic and orthopaedic surgeons who can offer operative interventions.

We encourage EPC referrals for eligible clients; usually benefiting from 3+ sessions.