Rhizarthrosis

Rhizarthrosis is a degenerative condition of the joint at the base of the thumb, also known as the trapeziometacarpal joint. It is a form of osteoarthritis, a disease characterized by the wear and tear of cartilage in a joint. Rhizarthrosis occurs when the cartilage in the joint wears away, causing pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving the thumb.

Causes of Rhizarthrosis
Causes of rhizarthrosis include:

• Age: Cartilage wear is a natural process that occurs over time, so rhizarthrosis is more common in older people.
• Trauma: Repetitive injuries or acute trauma to the joint at the base of the thumb can cause cartilage damage and increase the risk of rhizarthrosis.
• Rheumatic diseases: Rheumatic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the joint at the base of the thumb and contribute to rhizarthrosis.
• Overuse: Overuse of the joint at the base of the thumb, such as in sports that require repetitive hand movements or in jobs that involve the use of hand tools, can wear down the cartilage and increase the risk of rhizarthrosis.
• Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes, smoking, poor posture, or a condition that affects blood circulation.

Diagnosis of Rhizarthrosis
The diagnosis of rhizarthrosis is based on the patient's medical history and symptoms, as well as the results of various tests and examinations. Some of the tests and examinations that may be used to diagnose rhizarthrosis include:

• Physical examination: The doctor will examine the joint at the base of the thumb to assess pain, swelling, and mobility. He or she may also perform specific maneuvers to assess the extent of the condition.
• X-ray: An X-ray may show cartilage wear and the formation of osteophytes, known as bone spurs, in the joint. MRI or CT scan: These imaging tests can provide detailed images of the joint at the base of the thumb and can show any damage to the cartilage or bones.
• Lab tests: Your doctor may order lab tests to rule out other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Rhizarthrosis Treatment
Treatment for rhizarthrosis focuses on relieving pain and improving the function of the joint at the base of the thumb. Treatments may include:

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve joint mobility and strength. Your physical therapist can teach specific exercises to strengthen your hand muscles and reduce inflammation.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers to relieve pain and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation.
• Injections: Your doctor may recommend steroid injections to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Ultrasound is recommended for injections, as it improves the accuracy and likelihood of treatment success.
• Splints and orthotics: Wearing a wrist brace or thumb splint can help reduce stress on the joint at the base of the thumb and relieve pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases or those refractory to conservative treatment, surgery may be considered to repair or replace the joint at the base of the thumb.
• Lifestyle changes: It is important to avoid activities that can put stress on the joint, such as lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive hand movements.