What type of joint is in the base of the thumb?

What type of joint is in the base of the thumb?

The thumb basal joint, also known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint, is a specialized saddle-shaped joint that is formed by a small wrist bone (trapezium) and the first of the three bones in the thumb (metacarpal).

Why does my CMC joint hurt?

It often results from a combination of factors including family/work history, repetitive motions with applied force, awkward thumb postures from sports, work or recreational activities, previous fractures, trauma or dislocations to the thumb.

What type of joint is the thumb CMC?

synovial plane joints
The carpometacarpal joints of the fingers are synovial plane joints that serve as the articulation between the carpals and the metacarpals and allow the bases of the metacarpal bones to articulate with one another.

Why is my thumb joint so painful?

There are many potential causes for thumb pain, but the three most common conditions that tend to develop are 1) arthritis, 2) trigger thumb, and 3) de Quervain tenosynovitis. The location of the pain and symptoms can help determine the exact cause of your pain and what your best treatment option may be.

What causes a lump at the base of the thumb?

Ganglion cysts A ganglion cyst that develops on or near the thumb can cause a visible lump under the skin. It may also cause pain and discomfort when moving the joint. Injury and overuse are common causes of ganglion cysts.

What does pain at the base of your thumb mean?

Pain at the base of your thumb This pain could be a symptom of thumb injury or overuse, basal joint arthritis, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, pain at the base of your thumb can be caused by injuries to the ligaments at the lower part of your hand and in your wrist.

Is thumb arthritis a disability?

Many people may wonder is arthritis a disability. Yes. Arthritis can prompt incapacity, as can numerous other mental and physical conditions. If your arthritis confines your daily movements, or activities you may qualify for disability benefits.

What does Basal thumb arthritis look like?

Appearance. The thumb may appear swollen, especially at its base, and you may develop a bony bump. Overall, the base of the thumb can take on an enlarged appearance. One alarming sign of thumb arthritis is improper alignment of the joint as it shifts from its normal positioning.

Can a thumb joint be replaced?

Thumb Arthroplasty is surgery to replace part or the entire joint at the base of your thumb. Thumb Arthroplasty is a procedure that is performed on patients with advanced basilar thumb arthritis. The procedure is intended to alleviate pain in the thumb and improve function.

Why is the 1st carpometacarpal joint of the thumb called the saddle joint?

These two CMC provide the other three CMCs with a fixed and stable axis. While the mobility of the fourth CMC joint thus is perceptible, the first joint is a saddle joint with two degrees of freedom which except flexion/extension also enable abduction/adduction and a limited amount of opposition.

How do you treat pain at the base of your thumb?

Treatment

1. Rest: Support the thumb and rest it for as long as possible.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 10 minutes every hour for the first day.
3. Compress: Wear an elastic (ACE) bandage to reduce swelling.
4. Elevate: Keep the hand raised above heart level to reduce swelling and pain.

What does thumb arthritis look like?

Swelling, stiffness and tenderness at the base of your thumb. Decreased strength when pinching or grasping objects. Decreased range of motion. Enlarged or bony appearance of the joint at the base of your thumb.

What causes pain in the base of the thumb?

Pain at the base of your thumb. This pain could be a symptom of thumb injury or overuse, basil joint arthritis, or carpal tunnel syndrome. Additionally, pain at the base of your thumb can be caused by injuries to the ligaments at the lower part of your hand and in your wrist.

What are the joints of the thumb?

The joint of the thumb is a saddle joint. The type of synovial joint with the most freedom of movement is the ball-and-socket joint. These joints allow rotation in addition to the range of motion allowed by a saddle joint.

What are symptoms of basal thumb arthritis?

Symptoms of basal joint arthritis. Hand pain and stiffness. Usually, the first sign of arthritis in the thumb is pain, tenderness, and stiffness. You’re most likely to feel it at the base of your thumb as you try to grip, pinch, or clasp something between the thumb and index fingers.

What thumb brace is best for thumb arthritis?

The design of the CMC arthritis brace is ideal for basal thumb arthritis because the thumb splint protects the joint from harmful movements. The wrap around design also compresses the CMC to promote healing.