Definition:
Basal joint arthritis pertains to an inflammatory condition affecting the joint of the wrist and the basal or carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. It is also alternatively known as thumb arthritis.
Diagnosis:
Basal joint arthritis may be diagnosed through physical examination and standard imaging techniques to examine the affected joint. X-rays, bone scans, computerized tomography scans, magnetic resonance imaging scans, and arthrography are some of the most common diagnostic methods used.
Treatment:
Basal joint arthritis may be treated with self-care, medications and corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and improve movement in the affected joint. If the patient is particularly resistant to medications, surgery may be recommended to repair the affected joint.
Symptoms and Signs:
Basal joint arthritis causes debilitating pain, swelling, decreased strength, and diminished range of motion in the affected hand, particularly in the wrist and basal thumb joints. An affected patient will find it difficult to do simple tasks, such as grasp objects, turn door knobs, or open jars.
Causes:
The specific cause of basal joint arthritis, as with most forms of osteoarthritis, is currently not known. It is believed that the condition results from a combination of the following factors: obesity, aging, recent stress or injury to the joint, muscle weakness, and constant pressure on the basal joints. Basal joint arthritis is also associated with hereditary conditions, such as malformed joints and joint ligament laxity.
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