Signs of Thumb Joint Problems

Person showing thumb joint pain at the base of the thumb with CMC osteoarthritis

Treatment for Thumb Osteoarthritis

Effective ways of dealing with thumb osteoarthritis include:

1

Avoiding Activities That Cause Thumb Joint Pain

Small adjustments to daily tasks help protect the thumb and reduce ongoing pain.

2

Wearing a Splint to Support the Thumb and Wrist

A thumb splint steadies the joint, easing strain and reducing discomfort during activity.

3

Medication and Injections

Pain relief treatments may reduce symptoms, though results can vary and are often short-term.

4

Surgery

Surgery may help in severe cases, but it involves recovery and potential risks to consider.

5

Radiotherapy

Gentle low-dose radiotherapy reduces inflammation at the joint, easing pain safely without invasive treatment.

When to Consider Radiotherapy for Thumb Osteoarthritis

Persistent Pain and Inflammation

If you still have thumb joint pain despite using self-help treatments (like wearing a splint) and medicines.

Medications Aren’t Enough

Where simple pain relief and anti-inflammatory drugs aren’t working well enough or are causing side-effects .

Symptoms Are Getting Worse

If you notice increased pain and discomfort at the base of thumb.

You Do Not Want Surgery

If you are not suitable, for instance due to personal choice or other health conditions.

What Our Patients Say

Patients across the UK count on our gentle, specialist radiotherapy to ease long-standing joint pain. These stories reflect the care, safety, and results we aim to provide every day.

Dr Shaffer explained the treatment clearly so I had no anxiety before and during treatment.

I think this treatment is a great alternative to surgery.

Judith Rashed patient testimonial for radiotherapy at Joint Pain Practice UK

Judith Rashed

Within 20 minutes of completing an on line enquiry form Dr Shaffer had called me personally, discussed my condition and made an appointment to see him. I never felt under any pressure and completely trusted his expert opinion. At last somebody who took notice and understood the condition. I would highly recommend his care.

Sarah Smith patient testimonial radiotherapy for joint pain Joint Pain Practice UK

Sarah Smith

The appointment and then the treatment was prompt and straightforward.

Most importantly, it was painless and appears to have worked!

Mike Harris patient testimonial low-dose radiotherapy at Joint Pain Practice UK

Mike Harris

Dr Shaffer was on-time and dealt with the examination of hands/feet. He was able to rely on records of a prior visit in 2011 to help with diagnosis (that I had lost).

He was able to recommend treatment and courses of action - whether through him or colleagues. He was very helpful.

Simon Speirs patient testimonial Joint Pain Practice UK osteoarthritis radiotherapy

Simon Speirs

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Have A Quick Question?

Have concerns about your osteoarthritis condition? Book in your free call with Dr Shaffer to discuss how we can help.