Thumb Arthritis: Splints, Braces and Pain Relief

Older adults may develop arthritis in various joints, including the base of the thumb. Thumb arthritis can be painful, but there are several ways to alleviate the pain.

Arthritis may arise if the cartilage wears away within the joint at the thumb’s base. This allows the bones within the joint to rub together, causing pain and deformity.

How can you tell if you have arthritis of the thumb? Symptoms include:

• Pain at the base of your thumb when you grasp or pinch objects
• Decreased thumb strength when you pinch or grasp objects
• Stiffness, tenderness and/or swelling at the base of your thumb
• Decreased range of motion of your thumb from its base joint
• Swelling at the base of your thumb, making the area appear enlarged
• A bump or misshapen area at the base of your thumb (bone spurs)

Arthritis of the thumb is most common among people aged 50 and older. Possible treatments include medication, splinting and surgery.

“For some people with thumb arthritis, a brace or splint can provide relief,” says hand and wrist orthopedic surgeon, Daniel Seigerman, M.D. “Splinting alone won’t be helpful for everyone, but it’s a good starting point.”

Treatment Options for Thumb Arthritis

If you’re diagnosed with thumb arthritis, your doctor may recommend medication and splinting. Surgery is typically reserved for instances when other treatments don’t relieve pain.

Early treatment options include:

• Ice. Applying ice to the joint at the base of the thumb may reduce swelling. Your doctor may recommend that you do this for 15 minutes at a time.

• Heat. Wrapping a heating pad around the thumb and its joint may provide soothing relief. Heat should only be applied for 15 minutes at a time.

• Topical pain relievers. Certain over-the-counter creams or ointments may help to relieve your discomfort. Some topical products have heating, cooling or numbing properties.

• Pain medication. Your doctor may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. NSAIDs help to relieve pain while also decreasing inflammation.
• Splinting. Using a splint that helps to keep your thumb immobile is an effective treatment. Different styles are available, including soft and hard splints or braces.

Over time, as thumb arthritis progresses, the initial treatments may not be effective enough. You may continue to lose joint cartilage, leading to further damage and discomfort.

For more advanced arthritis of the thumb, treatment options include:

• Steroid injections. This treatment, when recommended, is injected directly into the affected joint. It may provide pain relief for several months at a time.
• Surgery. Different surgical options are available, depending on a patient’s needs. The procedures relieve pain, and some may restrict movement of the thumb.

Different Types of Splints

Two types of splints may help to ease the pain of thumb arthritis: 

• Soft splints. These splints are typically made from synthetic rubber. They have a strap that helps to keep your thumb in a resting position.
• Hard splints. These splints usually have a plastic frame, with softer fabric for cushioning. Some are designed to help you use your hand while properly positioning your thumb.

Both types of splints position the thumb so that the joint rests. Some splints encase the thumb and wrist for greater stability, while others do not.

A splint may be worn during activities, to keep your thumb immobile. You may also wear one to bed, keeping your thumb stable while you sleep.

Your doctor can suggest the best times for you to wear a splint. Some providers may recommend getting a custom-fitted brace or splint, for personalized support.

“For many people with thumb arthritis, a splint or brace provides needed pain relief,” Dr. Seigerman says. “You may not realize how often your thumb moves until you wear a splint.”

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Daniel Seigerman, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Seigerman call 201-639-6620.
• To find a doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website. 
• Learn more about our orthopedic services.

The material provided through HealthU is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual care.