Thumb osteoarthritis affects the joint at the base of the thumb, near the wrist, at the fleshy part of the thumb. This joint enables the thumb to swivel, pivot and pinch, enabling gripping with the hand. Degeneration of the cartilage surrounding the joint may be precipitated by trauma or injury to that area. Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the thumb include pain with activities involving gripping, swelling and tenderness at the base of the thumb, aching discomfort after prolonged use, development of bone spurs and a limited range of motion.

Non-surgical treatment will bring relief in the early stages of the condition. This may include icing the joint for 5-10 minutes several times throughout the day, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and wearing a supportive splint to limit movement of the thumb.

As the condition progresses, a steroid injection may be given to the joint. From there, surgical treatment will be considered. Thumb surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis. Surgery will involve either fusing the bones of the joint together or removing part of the joint and reconstructing it. A post-surgery cast will have to be worn for several weeks. Full recovery will take several months.