Final answer:
The most common treatment for thumb CMC arthritis includes non-surgical interventions such as splinting or bracing, medications, and physical therapy. Surgical options may be considered if non-surgical treatments are not effective, including joint fusion, joint replacement, and ligament reconstruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common treatment for thumb CMC arthritis is a combination of non-surgical and surgical interventions. Non-surgical treatments can include:
- Thumb splinting or bracing: Wearing a splint or brace can help support and immobilize the thumb joint, reducing pain and preventing further damage.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription anti-inflammatory drugs may be recommended to alleviate pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises and stretches can help improve thumb mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgical options may be considered. These can include:
- Thumb joint fusion: This procedure involves fusing the thumb joint together to eliminate the painful motion.
- Thumb joint replacement: In some cases, the damaged joint may be replaced with an artificial joint.
- Ligament reconstruction: This surgery involves repairing or reconstructing the damaged ligaments in the thumb joint.