Thumb CMC Osteoarthritis

Question 1

What is thumb CMC osteoarthritis?

Answer 1

Thumb Carpometacarpal Osteoarthritis (CMC OA) is a condition that leads to pain, laxity and weakness of the CMC.

Question 2

Describe the thumb CMC joint.

Answer 2

Biconcave-convex saddle joint, consists of the articulation between the first metacarpal of the thumb and the trapezium carpal bon.

Question 3

What are signs and symptoms of thumb CMC osteoarthritis?

Answer 3

• Weakness on affected hand when pinching, grasping or twisting objects.
• Muscle weakness, instability, stiffness following periods of rest and sharp and aching pain at base of thumb are other symptoms

Question 4

What is the impact of thumb CMC osteoarthritis?

Answer 4

• Affects neuro musculo skeletal and movement-related, sensory and pain functions.
• Joint mobility, stability and alignment directly affected.
• Muscle strength and endurance result of immobilisation of joint during recovery.
• Joint pain, inflammation, limited ROM.

Question 5

What is the role of occupational therapy in thumb CMC osteoarthritis?

Answer 5

• Performance abilities to establish intervention plan.
• Include assessment of joint ROM, muscle strength, pain and sensation, activity endurance.
• Evaluates client’s need for orthotics/splints, adaptive equipment and home/work environmental modifications.
• Appropriate post-surgical protocols incorporated if necessary.

Question 6

What are examples of interventions used by OTs in thumb CMC osteoarthritis?

Answer 6

• Physical agent modalities with pain management.
• Limb elevation, compression garments, exercise, splinting.
• Activities to promote gross/fine motor control.
• Provides custom or prefabricated orthotic devices
• Joint protection techniques.
• Assistive devices.