OA Hand, Wrist & Thumb

Joint inflammation is indicated by pain, swelling, stiffness and loss of function, that can result from degenerative osteoarthritis (OA). This commonly affects the thumb base CMC joints and the DIP joints (Heberden’s nodes) or PIP joints (Bouchard’s nodes) of the fingers. Middle age and older adults are predominantly affected although other risk factors include previous major or repetitive joint trauma or joint instability. Management is primarily conservative, making use of rest, anti-inflammatory medications and splints for use at night and during specific activities. Physiotherapy is often helpful. X-rays should be performed to confirm diagnosis before referring to physiotherapy.

What we will see:

Diagnosis confirmed with x-ray by GP
Pain management or functional difficulties

What we won’t see:

Diagnostic difficulties

Analgesia: oral +/- topical
Splints: See resources and link section
Education: See resources and links section
Activity modification: See resources and links section

NHS Lothian Refhelp Osteoarthritis of Base of Thumb
NHS Lothian Refhelp Osteoarthritis of the Hand
NHS Lothian Refhelp Osteoarthritis of the Wrist
Versus arthritis have a range of resources to support clinicians and patients https://www.versusarthritis.org/. Versus arthritis have a professional network you can join, which gives monthly up-date on MSK. They also have a range of training programmes and resources designed to improve MSK care. You might also be interested in their Clinical Assessment Guide and Decision Support Tools

NHS Lothian Virtual Hand Unit Website was developed in 2021 with the aim of improving the information provided to patients following referral, and to avoid unnecessary face to face appointments. The information is intended to compliment what patients are told in clinic and offer a trusted source of information Osteoarthritis in the Hand – Lothian Virtual Hand Clinic

The British Society for Surgery of the Hand website provides a wealth of information for patients and medical professionals on hand conditions including injuries and disorders, hand surgery and hand therapy. https://www.bssh.ac.uk/conditions, thumb base OA.

The British Association of Hand Therapists (BAHT) is a registered UK charity and clinical interest group for anyone interested in the rehabilitation of hands, with a dedicated patient section on hand injuries and disorders https://www.hand-therapy.co.uk/