From Constant Pain to “Magic” Relief: An arthritis success story

Many of my patients with basal joint osteoarthritis (arthritis at the base of the thumb) feel like they’ve tried everything—from over-the-counter creams to various prefabricated splints—only to find their pain persists.

A Patient Experience

I recently worked with a patient who came to me with constant, high-level thumb pain in her dominant hand. Despite her best efforts with standard braces, she struggled to complete even simple daily tasks without significant discomfort.

In my 15 years as a Certified Hand Therapist, I’ve learned that no two thumbs are alike. While my foundational approach to arthritis is consistent, every treatment plan must be tailored to the unique lifestyle of the person sitting across from me. For patients dealing with constant thumb pain, I’ve found that most benefit significantly from a custom, thermoplastic short opponens splint. 

The Solutions and Relief

This particular patient was open to the idea of a custom splint, and when she followed up just one week after fabrication, the transformation was clear. She was no longer in constant pain and described the relief as feeling “like magic.” While it may feel like magic, the science is simple: by stabilizing the base of the thumb in a functional position, we eliminate the “grinding” forces within the joint and allow the surrounding muscles to provide proper support.

However, a splint alone is rarely a permanent solution. The second half of her success was the addition of a dynamic stability program designed to strengthen surrounding muscles.These targeted exercises train the surrounding muscles to act as a natural, internal brace. The exercises ensure that the joint can be supported by the body’s own musculature, rather than relying on an external device.

This two-pronged approach—protecting the joint externally and strengthening it internally—did more than just mask her symptoms. It provided a comprehensive solution that allowed her to return to her life with confidence and control and significant pain relief.

A Path Toward Functional Freedom

If you are experiencing thumb pain, don’t let it hold you back any longer. Whether it’s through custom splinting, dynamic stability exercises, or a conversation about joint protection relief is possible. Contact me to set up an appointment.