Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, swelling, irritation or stiffness in the joints of the body. There are various types of arthritis, one being osteoarthritis, where the cartilage protecting the end of the bones begin to wear away. Pain with movement can occur without the cartilage due to bones rubbing against each other causing friction and damage to the joint. Both arthritis and osteoarthritis can affect the hand, wrist, arm, elbow, and shoulder. The most common joint that can be affected by arthritis is the basal joint (CMC joint) located near the wrist and at the fleshy part of the thumb allowing the thumb to swivel, pivot, and pinch to be able to grasp objects in your hand. Our therapist may fabricate a custom splint for treatment of this ailment as well as prescribe exercises for mobility and manual therapy to help relieve pain so you can return to the activities you enjoy taking part in.