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Surgery & recovery

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.

Why it's done

  • Persistent thumb-base pain that limits pinch, grip, or self-care
  • Failed bracing, activity modification, and injections

Typical recovery phases

Timelines are general patterns. Your surgeon's protocol always wins.

  1. 1Weeks 0–4

    Protect the reconstruction in a thumb spica.

    Wear the splint full time; move uninvolved fingers gently.

  2. 2Weeks 4–8

    Begin gentle thumb motion and gradual splint weaning.

    Light functional use returns as cleared.

  3. 3Months 2–6

    Strength, pinch endurance, return to activity.

    Pinch and grip strengthening progresses with therapy guidance.

Red flags — call your team

  • Spreading redness, drainage, or fever
  • Sudden severe pain or new instability
  • Numbness or color change in the thumb

Splints you may wear

Sources