Restoration of Dynamic Stability in Early Osteoarthritis of the Carpometacarpal Joint of the Thumb

Abstract

The carpometacarpal joint of the thumb (CMCJ) is one of the most common joints in the body to be affected by osteoarthritis. The effects of associated degenerative changes include pain and loss of pinch grip function. Surgery appears to be the most commonly described treatment for osteoarthritis of the CMCJ. A number of thenar muscles have been identified as dynamic stabilisers of the joint. Evidence suggests that specific exercise aimed at restoring dynamic stability would offer an effective form of conservative management for early osteoarthritis of the CMCJ, having the potential to delay or reduce the need for surgical intervention.