Thumb CMC arthroplasty
Removes the worn-out trapezium bone at the base of the thumb and uses nearby tissue to stabilize the thumb. Used for advanced thumb-base arthritis when conservative care fails.
- Phases
3
- Red flagsEscalation
3
- Sources
1
Page reviewed — follow your clinical team for decisions.
Why it's done
- Persistent thumb-base pain that limits pinch, grip, or self-care
- Failed bracing, activity modification, and injections
Related condition overview
Our learn library has a separate page on Thumb base arthritis — helpful context alongside this surgery overview (diagnosis, day-to-day coping, and when to seek care).
Typical recovery phases
General patterns only — your protocol wins.
These phases describe common themes many teams use after this type of procedure. Your surgeon and hand therapist set the exact timeline, motion limits, and return-to-work or driving rules.
- Phase 1Weeks 0–4
Protect the reconstruction in a thumb spica.
Wear the splint full time; move uninvolved fingers gently.
- Phase 2Weeks 4–8
Begin gentle thumb motion and gradual splint weaning.
Light functional use returns as cleared.
- Phase 3Months 2–6
Strength, pinch endurance, return to activity.
Pinch and grip strengthening progresses with therapy guidance.
Red flags — call your team
Contact your surgical team urgently for new or worsening symptoms like these. If you cannot reach them and the problem feels life-threatening, use local emergency services.
- Spreading redness, drainage, or fever
- Sudden severe pain or new instability
- Numbness or color change in the thumb
Splints you may wear
Names and designs vary by hospital. These splint education pages match common post-operative supports for this procedure — confirm what you were given before changing anything.
Related motions in the movement library
Canonical hand-therapy movements linked to this condition for education — not a substitute for your own program or clearance.
Sources
Independent references we used to shape this overview. They do not replace your clinician's instructions or your local emergency pathways.
- Thumb arthritis treatment — American Society for Surgery of the Hand(accessed 2026-04-22)