Calcification in Thumb Root Joint (Osteoarthritis)

The joint at the root of the thumb is called the carpometacarpal joint, and unlike all other creatures, it allows the thumb to rotate. In a normal joint, the cartilage covers the ends of both bones and provides painless movement on a slippery surface. it occurs. Thus, pain occurs during the squeezing and grasping movement at the root of the thumb. This may also cause a decrease in clamping power.
This joint may be subject to wear and deterioration around the joint during normal use of the hand. The presence of calcification in this joint does not mean that calcification will occur in other joints in your body. Past traumas and strains increase the risk of osteoarthritis.

How to Diagnose Osteoarthritis?

Pain in the thumb and root is frequently seen in the clinical picture. Usually, your doctor may request an x-ray to confirm the symptoms.

How is the Treatment of Osteoarthritis?

Complaints can be relieved by resting this joint, especially in the initial period. However, if there is progress, anti-inflammatory drugs (pill-cream), exercise, protective splints and cortisone injections can be used to reduce pain. In more advanced patients, the joint may need to be reshaped with the recommendation of your doctor. The main purpose of surgery is to protect movement by eliminating pain and to prevent progressive weakness and deformity. A small bone called the trapezium is removed. In some cases, a tendon is used to stabilize the joint.

  • Freezing the joint: The trapezium is frozen together with the bone in front of it. It can be applied more frequently to those who do heavy work.
  • Denervation: Pain can be eliminated by removing the small sensory nerves around the joint. Replacement of the joint: The joint that has been damaged by calcification is replaced with an artificial joint.
  • ?Ost Questions About eoarthritis

    What kind of anesthesia will I get? These procedures are often performed under general anesthesia (you will be asleep). Alternatively, your anesthetist may suggest just numbing your arm. sees. If these conditions persist, surgical treatment may be required. The best surgical method may vary for each patient. You can discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method with your doctor. In addition, your finger should be protected for up to 6 weeks before starting physiotherapy.
    When can I drive? You will not be able to drive for approximately 6 weeks after surgery.
    How long will I be away from work? Depending on the type of job you work, between 3 weeks and 3 weeks.

    How long does the follow-up period last? You will need to use a plastic plaster cast in the first 2 weeks after the surgery. Your stitches will then be removed. Depending on the procedure to be applied, your thumb will remain in the splint for a few more weeks.

    What Happens If Osteoarthritis Treatment Is Not Performed?

    Only you can know how much of your complaints you can cope with. This will affect your quality of daily life and may get worse, albeit slowly, over time. In the long term, your thumb may weaken, and stiffness may increase and cause more pain.

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