Symptoms of Basal Joint Arthritis

Basal joint arthritis, also known as basal thumb arthritis, causes pain at the base of the thumb because of joint degeneration. Cartilage covering the ends of the joint bones deteriorates, and extra bone forms. The condition develops gradually, usually after age 40, and is more common in women than men. Sometimes this type of arthritis develops after an injury.

Initial Symptoms

The first symptom most people notice is pain when gripping or turning an object. Everyday activity starts to cause discomfort, such as turning doorknobs or keys, opening a jar lid, using a manual can opener, holding a book open, using scissors, or writing. Pain also can be caused by using a pinching grip and motion, such as putting plates in the dishwasher, picking up mail, and using the garage door opener.

Later Symptoms

Other symptoms include swelling at the base of the thumb, and soreness in the fleshy part of the thumb. The thumb joint may have a chronic aching after being used, and it also can ache after changes in weather. Eventually, the thumb joint may become enlarged with a bony bump, and may look like it is not aligned properly.

Progression

Since the disorder is progressive, more joint cartilage is lost and the condition becomes more painful. People with basal joint arthritis symptoms tend to use the thumb as little as possible, which then causes a loss of strength and muscle loss. An individual may have trouble turning a doorknob or may begin dropping things.

Diagnosis

Physicians can distinguish basal joint arthritis from other conditions that cause thumb joint pain, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and de Quervain tenosynovitis. A physician holds the joint firmly and moves the thumb, asking the patient if she feels pain or a gritty sensation. Another symptom in this test is a grinding sound, indicating bones rubbing against each other. X-rays can show joint deterioration and any bone spurs or calcium deposits which have developed in response.

Physical Therapy

Conservative treatment is effective for up to 80 percent of patients, according to the Akron General Medical Center. Physical and occupational therapists can teach people how to control pain and restore function. They may use splints for the wrist and thumb, and teach proper use of heat therapy and cold packs, each of which relieves different types of symptoms. Sometimes gentle exercise in warm water can relieve stiffness. People with basal joint arthritis symptoms should avoid forceful or repetitive gripping and twisting motions.

Medication and Surgery

For people who do not respond to physical therapy, oral anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed, as well as cortisone injections. More severe cases may require surgery and rehabilitation. Surgery typically involves removing the damaged bone and replacing it with a tendon graft or silicone implant.