Pain at the base of your thumb, especially with gripping
Difficulty opening jars, bottles, or turning keys
Swelling or tenderness at the base of the thumb
Thumb feels weak or unstable
Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Thumb CMC Arthritis: Relief for Thumb Base Pain
Pain at the base of your thumb when gripping, opening jars, or turning keys is often caused by thumb CMC (carpometacarpal) arthritis. Dr. Jesse Dashe provides personalized treatment options with same- or next-day availability in San Leandro.
Do these symptoms fit you?
When to see a surgeon
If pain interferes with daily activities or work
If splints, medication, or therapy haven't provided relief
If you're avoiding activities because of thumb pain
If your thumb is becoming deformed or unstable
What Dr. Dashe does differently
Same-/next-day access — don't suffer with thumb pain for weeks
Evidence-based care — Dr. Dashe use proven treatments with the best outcomes
Outcome-focused — Dr. Dashe stays with you until your thumb function is restored
Treatment options
Non-surgical
Thumb splints, anti-inflammatory medication, activity modification, steroid injections, therapy.
Surgical
CMC arthroplasty (joint reconstruction), arthrodesis (fusion), or other procedures based on your specific needs.
Recovery timeline
Splint or cast protection for 4–6 weeks after surgery
Therapy begins around 6 weeks to restore motion and strength
Full recovery and return to all activities typically 3–4 months
What to bring
Any X-rays or imaging of your thumb (if available)
Insurance card and medication list
List of activities that cause the most pain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common symptom of thumb arthritis?
Pain at the base of the thumb when pinching, gripping, or twisting objects is the hallmark symptom.
Do thumb braces actually work?
Yes. Braces or splints can reduce pain and support the joint during activities, especially in early to moderate cases.
Are cortisone injections safe for thumb arthritis?
Cortisone injections can temporarily relieve pain and inflammation. Most patients tolerate them well, but repeated injections over time may be less effective.
When should I consider surgery for thumb arthritis?
Surgery is considered when pain remains severe despite splints, injections, and activity changes, and daily life is significantly affected.
Will I lose thumb strength after surgery?
Most patients maintain or improve their grip strength after surgery, especially with proper hand therapy and rehabilitation.
What are the surgical options for thumb base arthritis?
If splinting and injections fail, we offer advanced CMC joint reconstruction (arthroplasty). Dr. Dashe specializes in procedures that restore thumb stability and pinch strength, allowing San Leandro patients to return to daily activities without the constant "grinding" pain of arthritis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is thumb CMC arthritis?
Thumb CMC arthritis affects the joint at the base of the thumb where it meets the wrist, causing pain with gripping and pinching activities.
Who gets thumb arthritis?
It's most common in women over 40, especially those with a family history, but can affect anyone who uses their hands repetitively.
Can thumb arthritis be cured?
While arthritis cannot be reversed, symptoms can be effectively managed with splinting, injections, and surgery when needed.
How long does thumb arthritis surgery recovery take?
Recovery varies by procedure, but most patients return to light activities in 2-4 weeks and full use in 2-3 months with hand therapy.
Will I lose thumb strength after surgery?
Most patients maintain or improve their grip strength after surgery, especially with proper hand therapy and rehabilitation.
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Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Providing expert hand care to patients in San Leandro, Oakland, Castro Valley, Hayward, and Fremont.