Thumb CMC Arthritis Care with Dr. Andrew Yang
Pain at the base of your thumb when pinching, gripping, or opening jars? You may have thumb CMC arthritis — also called basal joint arthritis — one of the most common forms of hand arthritis in adults.
Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS evaluates thumb arthritis and discusses personalized treatment options at OrthoMD in Fort Lee, NJ and Bayside, NY (Queens), from conservative management through surgery when appropriate.
Understanding Thumb CMC Arthritis with Dr. Andrew Yang
The carpometacarpal (CMC) joint sits at the base of the thumb — where the thumb metacarpal bone meets the trapezium bone of the wrist. This joint has a unique saddle shape that allows the wide range of motion the thumb needs for pinching, gripping, and grasping. That same mobility, combined with the significant forces generated during hand use, makes the CMC joint particularly vulnerable to wear over time.
Thumb CMC arthritis — also called basal joint arthritis — occurs when the cartilage in this joint gradually deteriorates. As the protective cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, inflammation, swelling, and progressive loss of function.
It is one of the most common forms of hand arthritis, particularly in women over 40, though it can affect anyone with a history of repetitive hand use or prior thumb injury. Because the thumb is involved in nearly every gripping and pinching motion, even mild CMC arthritis can have a significant impact on daily activities.
Common Symptoms
Thumb CMC arthritis symptoms typically develop gradually and may worsen with use. If you notice any of the following, consider scheduling an evaluation with Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS.
Causes & Risk Factors
Thumb CMC arthritis most commonly results from age-related wear, but several factors can increase the likelihood or severity of basal joint degeneration.
How We Diagnose Thumb CMC Arthritis
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Thumb CMC arthritis is primarily diagnosed through a clinical examination, and in most cases, we can confirm the diagnosis and discuss treatment options during your first visit.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many patients with thumb CMC arthritis benefit from conservative management and do not require surgery. Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS will discuss a plan based on the severity of your symptoms and your functional goals.
Which brace to wear
The thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint at the base of the thumb carries the load of pinching and gripping. A splint that supports that joint, often called a thumb CMC splint or short opponens splint, can ease pain with daily activities. Hand-based splints leave the wrist free and suit people who need to keep working with their hands. A forearm-based thumb spica gives firmer rest during flares. Hand therapists can also make custom splints.
A wrist brace does not support the thumb CMC joint, so the OrthoMD Wrist Brace is not what Dr. Yang recommends for this condition. Carpal tunnel syndrome often occurs alongside thumb CMC arthritis, and in that case a night wrist splint for the carpal tunnel can be used in addition to a thumb splint (see our brace guide).
Related pages: De Quervain's tenosynovitis, hand arthritis, PRP injection for thumb arthritis, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome.
Disclosure: Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS and OrthoMD developed and sell the OrthoMD Wrist Brace on Amazon and earn money when it is purchased. The advice in this section applies to any brace, whoever makes it.
This section is educational and is not medical advice. Braces do not replace an evaluation. Call (917) 242-4585 to book a visit in Fort Lee, NJ or Bayside, NY.
Corticosteroid Injection
When pain is limiting daily activities and conservative measures have provided insufficient relief, a corticosteroid injection into the CMC joint can offer effective pain relief:
For selected cases, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection may be discussed during your evaluation; results vary.
When Surgery May Be Recommended
Surgery is considered when significant pain and loss of function persist despite several months of appropriate conservative treatment. Most patients who reach this point have tried splinting, therapy, and injections without adequate relief.
The most common surgical approach for thumb CMC arthritis is thumb basal joint reconstruction. One approach is ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI): the arthritic trapezium bone is removed, and the patient's own tendon is used to support the thumb base and fill the space.
What to expect from surgery:
Why Choose OrthoMD for Thumb CMC Arthritis
Hand & Upper Extremity Specialist
Dr. Andrew Yang is fellowship-trained in hand and upper extremity surgery and focuses on conditions of the hand, wrist, and thumb, including thumb CMC arthritis.
Precise Diagnosis
Thumb base pain has multiple possible causes. We evaluate thoroughly to confirm whether CMC arthritis is the primary issue and rule out other conditions such as De Quervain's tenosynovitis, trigger thumb, or nerve involvement.
Conservative Care First
We always explore non-surgical options before recommending procedures. Many patients achieve meaningful relief through splinting, therapy, and injections — and we support that path fully when appropriate.
Surgical Care When Needed
For patients who require surgery, Dr. Andrew Yang's fellowship training in hand surgery includes thumb basal joint reconstruction and related reconstructive procedures. He discusses each step and what to expect.
Personalized Treatment Planning
No two patients are the same. Your treatment plan is tailored to your symptoms, activity level, hand dominance, and long-term goals — not a generic protocol.
Two Convenient Locations
With offices in Fort Lee, NJ (Bergen County) and Bayside, NY (Queens), thumb arthritis treatment is accessible — with same-day evaluations often available.
Related Conditions
Thumb and wrist conditions can share overlapping symptoms. If you're experiencing discomfort beyond thumb CMC arthritis, these related conditions may also be worth exploring:
Learn more about our full range of orthopedic services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Your Thumb Feeling Better?
Schedule an evaluation with Andrew Yang, MD, FAAOS — get a diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, usually same day.
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