Health Focus on... thumb arthritis Arthritis of the thumb can make simple daily activities difficult, but dont give up hope. There are ways to increase mobility, strength and control and to ease pain Words: louise ramsay I ts easy to take for granted the ability to chop an onion or zip up your trousers, but not if you have stiff, painful thumbs. Osteoarthritis in the thumbs basal joint is a common form of the condition. It typically affects post-menopausal women, but men can still be at risk. Pain is felt at the base of the thumb when using the joint, and this can become constant. Other common features are weakness and loss of mobility in the thumb. Eventually, it may change shape. Were not really sure what causes thumb arthritis, but risk factors include hypermobility in the thumbs, previous fractures or significant thumb sprains, and repetitive movements, says Sam Tomkins, clinical specialist physiotherapist in the hand therapy department at Guys and St Thomas Hospital, and spokesperson for the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy. These cumulatively put stress on the thumb joint. There are many products you can buy to make daily tasks easier, such as adapters for taps and electric bottle openers. Splints, both rigid and soft, can also help, says Tomkins. You can either buy one off the shelf, or have one fitted or made up for you by a therapist. Exercises can also strengthen muscles, but watch your pace. Pain from osteoarthritis generally gets worse with increasing activity, but movement is also important. You need to find the right level of activity for you. Exercises to try key pinch Place the tip of the thumb against the side of the index finger, and squeeze together. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat two to three times. Alternatively, use therapy putty to add resistance, says Tomkins. Active range of motion Use muscles surrounding the affected joint rather than the other hand to move your thumb away from the index finger and back towards it. Repeat 10-20 times, says Tomkins. ok sign Start by holding your hand up vertically, and bring the tip of your index finger to join the tip of your thumb to form an O. Keep the other three fingers standing up straight. Repeat with each finger, 10 times on each hand. finger spread Place your hand on a table and spread your fingers as wide apart as you can. Keep your other fingers flat and slowly lift your thumb as high as possible. Hold in position for a few seconds, then lower. Repeat with the other hand. n For more hand exercises, see Arthritis Cares trapeziectomy fact sheet