What Should You Avoid With Hand CMC Joint Arthritis?

Carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis can cause severe pain and discomfort in your hand, making it difficult to perform everyday movements and motions. Understanding which activities to avoid may play an important role in maintaining your joint health. Dr. Christopher Williams can provide more information about this condition as well as treatment options during a consultation in Atlanta, GA.

Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta has treated countless patients with hand CMC joint arthritis and knows what activities can worsen symptoms. Call now to book an appointment and discuss potential solutions today.

What is CMC arthritis?

CMC arthritis is common with aging and occurs when cartilage wears away from the base of the thumb, also known as the carpometacarpal joint. Unfortunately, thumb arthritis causes pain, swelling and inflammation, limited range of motion, and reduced strength in the area, making it challenging to perform even simple tasks. People with hand CMC arthritis should avoid certain activities known to worsen symptoms.

What should I avoid with CMC joint arthritis?

Some activities may be harmful to the CMC joint and should be avoided if possible. These include:

• Repetitive movements: If your job requires repetitive motions of the hands and wrists, speak with your doctor about ways to reduce strain on the joint. Take frequent breaks, use ergonomic equipment, and incorporate hand and finger exercises to maintain flexibility.
• Gripping or squeezing: Forceful movements like opening jars can be very painful for someone with CMC joint arthritis. Seek alternative ways to perform these tasks or use soft-grip tools whenever possible.
• Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects can significantly strain the hand and thumb joints, worsening arthritis symptoms. Opt for lighter loads or use techniques to distribute weight more evenly across the hand and wrist.
• Prolonged smartphone usage: Frequent use of handheld devices strains the thumb joint and contributes to increased pain and inflammation. Consider setting limits on smartphone and tablet use or try a stylus to reduce strain.

The best time to see a doctor is when the symptoms of thumb arthritis prevent you from completing everyday tasks and disrupt your daily life. Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta knows the importance of taking care of your joint health and can provide reliable treatments.

What kind of treatment is available for CMC joint arthritis?

A consultation with a healthcare professional is the only way to accurately diagnose your joint pain in Atlanta, GA. Diagnostic tests like x-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan allow us to better understand your condition and create an individualized treatment plan. Dr. Williams provides personalized care to manage arthritic symptoms and enhance the health of the thumb joint.

Our team focuses on conservative treatments for CMC joint arthritis, utilizing the latest technologies and innovations to provide relief without invasive surgery. We may suggest lifestyle changes such as rest or massage therapy, splinting, and exercises to reduce pain and improve mobility. More advanced treatment options include cellular therapy with platelet rich plasma (PRP) to help decrease pain and improve stability.

Manage thumb arthritis

Want to be proactive about your joint health in Atlanta, GA? Minimizing repetitive or forceful movements, avoiding excessive strain on the thumb joint, and practicing good ergonomics can contribute to improved comfort and overall quality of life. If you're experiencing hand CMC joint arthritis, call Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta to meet with a trusted provider like Dr. Christopher Williams today.