Osteoarthritis of the thumb, also called the pollex, is one of the most common forms of osteoarthritis that affects the hand and is caused by the degeneration of the articular cartilage. The condition can cause severe pain in the hand, decreased strength, swelling and loss of amplitude of movement, which makes it quite difficult to perform normal household tasks, such as opening jars or turning the handle of a door.

When the cartilage around the thumb begins to degenerate, inflammation and pain set in and the thumb may become stiff and slightly swollen. As cartilage degeneration progresses, the body tends to form bone deposits around the thumb that cause hypertrophy (thickening) of the thumb joint. Over time this leads to stiffness.

The thumb is the first and most important finger of the hand and has all the following distinct characteristics: • It is opposable to the other four fingers • It has two phalanges, distal and proximal, compared to the other 4 fingers that have three phalanges • It has a greater width in the distal phalanx than in the proximal phalanx • It is attached (connected) to a mobile metacarpal (bone of the hand, which produces most of the opposability) Without the thumb, movements such as basic gripping, the use of musical and playing instruments and delicate movements, would not be possible.

1. Overuse (wear) is the most common cause, decades of over-use causes cartilage damage, the most affected being masseur therapists, dentists, athletes and musicians. 2. Fracture or injury of the thumb Fractures of the thumb can cause its arthritis, but much later, usually after 10-20 years 3. Rheumatoid arthritis – this inflammatory arthritis often affects the joints of the hands and fingers causing swelling and the appearance of bone nodules around the thumb and its joints.

➢ Use of orthopedic devices such as orthotics or splints

It may be necessary to wear an orthosis or splints to help support the joint and minimize movement in the wrist and movement of the thumb.
Orthotics or splints will help reduce pain, encourage a correct position and rest of the thumb joints. They can be worn throughout the night or throughout the day, depending on individual needs.

➢ Anti-inflammatory drugs

It significantly helps relieve pain and inflammation, but their administration is done in the short term, 10-14 days. Topically applied anti-inflammatory gels can also help. Local injections of long-acting corticosteroids can often help relieve pain and reduce constant inflammation. ➢ Thermotherapy/Cryotherapy

Topically, alternately, heat/ice is applied to help reduce joint inflation and alleviate swelling. Contrast bathing is also indicated, which involves placing the hands in a basin (larger bowl) with cold water for two minutes, then warm water for two minutes, then cold water. This can help reduce inflammation. ➢ Physical therapy

Through specific exercise programs, osteoarthritis of the thumb can be managed
The main objectives of the recovery program are aimed at

➢ reducing inflammation

➢ increasing joint mobility

➢ toning the muscles around the thumb

➢ Surgery

If the therapeutic measures listed above do not have the expected result and the thumb moves with difficulty, surgery may be required.

➢ Execute movements and exercises that allow the thumb to move through the full range of movements possible to help improve mobility.

➢ When the power and movement of the thumb are limited, consider purchasing jar openers, purchasing garments fitted with larger zippers

➢ Avoid tightening your hand when transporting something.

➢ Self-care measures for hands should not be neglected.