When is Surgery for Hand CMC Joint Arthritis Considered?

Hand CMC (carpometacarpal) joint arthritis, often impacting the thumb's base, can lead to pain and limited mobility. While many Atlanta patients manage symptoms with nonsurgical methods, severe cases may require surgery to restore function and comfort. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic specialist Dr. Christopher Williams focuses on providing patients with a variety of solutions for CMC joint arthritis that can help avoid CMC hand surgery — though, in some cases, it may become necessary. Here, you'll find more information about when surgery for hand CMC arthritis is recommended and the steps taken beforehand.

What is CMC joint arthritis?

CMC joint arthritis is a degenerative condition affecting the thumb's base joint, referring to the area where it connects with the wrist. This type of arthritis often develops due to wear and tear, repetitive use, or genetic factors — all of which can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, CMC hand arthritis can interfere with daily activities that require a firm grip or pinching motion, making it harder to hold objects, open jars, or perform tasks like writing.

Can CMC joint arthritis be treated without surgery?

In many cases, it may be possible to treat CMC joint arthritis without surgery. Dr. Williams offers a range of nonsurgical treatments for CMC joint arthritis. These options aim to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function without the downsides of invasive hand and wrist surgery. Depending on the nature and severity of your condition, Dr. Williams may recommend one or more of the following CMC hand arthritis treatment options before considering surgery:

• Physical therapy
• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Splinting or bracing
• Steroid injections
• Regenerative medicine therapies, like Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and cellular therapy with bone marrow containing stem cells.

These nonsurgical thumb arthritis treatments can help many patients manage symptoms effectively and may delay or even remove the need for surgery.

When is surgery for CMC joint arthritis necessary?

Surgery for hand CMC arthritis may be recommended when nonsurgical treatments are no longer effective and pain significantly impacts daily life. Some signs that surgery for CMC joint arthritis might be needed include:

• Persistent pain despite other therapies
• Loss of thumb strength or motion
• Advanced joint deterioration.

Dr. Williams evaluates each patient's condition thoroughly, considering factors like arthritis severity, overall health, and lifestyle needs to determine if and when surgery is likely to be the most effective and appropriate option possible.

Restore hand function and comfort the easy way with CMC joint arthritis nonsurgical treatments in Atlanta, GA

If you are struggling with pain, immobility, and joint arthritis in your thumbs but haven't pursued treatment because you're not interested in the inconvenience and risks of invasive surgery, you may be excited to learn that there are many options available for treating CMC thumb arthritis without surgery. Orthopedic specialist Dr. Christopher Williams at Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta is dedicated to helping patients achieve lasting relief from arthritis symptoms. Contact our friendly team to learn more about your options for Atlanta, GA CMC joint arthritis treatment and to schedule a consultation as the first step in your journey toward regaining your mobility, comfort, and more.