How Hand CMC Joint Arthritis Affects Grip Strength and Daily Activities

Our hands are essential for countless daily tasks, from holding a coffee cup to typing on a keyboard. When carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis affects the base of the thumb, it can significantly reduce grip strength and dexterity, making even simple activities — like opening a drink or signing your name — difficult. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic specialist Dr. Christopher Williams helps patients regain function, mobility, and pain relief through both conservative and regenerative therapies tailored to their specific needs.

How does CMC joint arthritis weaken grip strength?

The CMC joint at the base of the thumb is essential for gripping, pinching, and making other fine motor movements. When arthritis develops in the CMC joint, it can cause a number of problems that weaken your grip, including:

Pain and inflammation, making it difficult to grip objects firmly
Weakness in the thumb and wrist, reducing control over movements
Stiffness and swelling, limiting the hand's ability to grasp or squeeze

Over time, CMC arthritis can lead to a noticeably weak hand grip, making daily tasks feel more strenuous, unstable, or even impossible. Patients with CMC hand arthritis often find themselves dropping objects, struggling with lids and buttons, or feeling pain when shaking hands.

What things are harder with CMC thumb arthritis?

As grip strength declines, simple, everyday movements can become frustrating or painful. Patients with CMC joint arthritis often report difficulty with:

Opening jars, bottles, or twist-off caps
Turning door handles or car keys
Gripping a toothbrush or holding a pen
Typing on a keyboard or using a phone
Carrying grocery bags or lifting objects

For many men and women, these challenges gradually worsen as arthritis progresses, making daily life more physically demanding and limiting independence.

How can you improve grip strength with CMC joint arthritis?

Fortunately, various treatment options can help reduce pain and restore hand function. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, Dr. Williams offers both conservative and regenerative therapies to enhance grip strength and mobility, including:

Nonsurgical treatments for CMC arthritis

Many patients find relief and improved function through noninvasive CMC arthritis treatments, such as:

Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling
Splinting to support the thumb and reduce strain on the joint
Physical therapy exercises to strengthen surrounding muscles
Corticosteroid injections to manage inflammation

Regenerative therapies for CMC arthritis

For patients looking for longer-lasting relief without surgery, regenerative treatments for CMC arthritis may be an exciting possibility. Some of the most effective options possible for regenerative therapy for CMC hand arthritis include:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to reduce inflammation and support healing
Regenexx® therapy to promote tissue regeneration and joint repair

Unlike surgery, regenerative treatments work with the body's natural processes to enhance grip strength and hand function without extensive downtime.

What can you do at home to maintain grip strength with arthritis in your hands?

In addition to professional treatment, certain at-home strategies can help preserve grip strength and mobility, including:

Use ergonomic tools like wide-grip utensils and jar openers
Apply heat or cold therapy to reduce stiffness and inflammation
Perform hand exercises to maintain flexibility and strength
Avoid repetitive thumb motions that strain the joint
Wear a supportive brace during activities that require gripping or lifting

Following a thorough evaluation and consultation, Dr. Williams will work closely with you to develop an at-home regimen that complements your CMC joint arthritis treatment to help you regain and/or maintain hand strength for as long as possible.

Find hand arthritis pain relief and restore grip strength with CMC thumb arthritis treatment in Atlanta, GA

If CMC joint arthritis is making gripping, pinching, or everyday tasks difficult, specialized treatment can help. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, Dr. Christopher Williams provides advanced, patient-focused solutions to help restore strength, comfort, and mobility. Schedule a consultation today to explore your treatment options for CMC arthritis in Atlanta, GA, and regain the confidence and comfort you deserve.