The thumb joint is the most mobile joint in the hand, allowing for a variety of movements and precision activities – such as grasping and picking up objects. Over time, the thumb joint can become susceptible to wear and tear, which for some individuals can result in joint deterioration and arthritis.
When symptoms of thumb pain and/or disability are not relieved by nonsurgical methods, a joint replacement may be necessary. This type of thumb surgery is also known as arthroplasty. Let’s talk about what you can expect during your recovery after having thumb joint replacement surgery.
Recovery After Thumb Surgery
Depending on the type of surgical procedure used, full recovery from a thumb joint arthroplasty operation can take a number of months. It will require professional rehabilitation by a physical therapist in order for the surgery to be a success, because otherwise patients tend to use their hand normally again – which can cause re-injury and can undo what was done during the surgery.
Initially, the thumb is padded and a splint is applied to immobilize the thumb. This will keep it in a natural position to promote proper healing following surgery.
There may be some discomfort and swelling, but your surgeon will recommend pain medication to help alleviate the symptoms. For the first few days your hand should be kept elevated to reduce pain and swelling. Your surgeon will want to check your hand within five to seven days after the procedure, and the stitches will need to be removed after 10 to 14 days.
Joint reconstruction surgery requires a period of immobilization of the joint followed by physical therapy and occupational therapy, ideally with a certified hand therapist. You therapist will direct your recovery program and will work with you to help you regain motion, strength, and coordination of the thumb joint.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation During Recovery
The first physical therapy treatments will focus on controlling pain and swelling. The treatments may include heat therapy, massage, and other manual treatments to help ease pain and muscle spasms. The next phase of physical therapy involves performing gentle exercises with the thumb to improve your range-of-motion and strength, which also helps to improve stability around the thumb joint.
Your therapist will help you regain your fine motor skills after having a thumb joint replacement, such as gripping with your thumb and forefinger, and will teach you ways to grip and support items in order to do your tasks safely and with the least amount of stress on your thumb joint. It is important to avoid doing too much, too quickly, to avoid injury and future problems.
Thumb Joint Replacement Surgeons in Maryland
If you are suffering with pain in your thumb, or if you have an injury or chronic condition affecting your shoulder, arm, elbow, or hand, talk to the experts at Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. Our Maryland hand surgeons are committed to providing the highest-quality patient care for virtually all problems of the upper extremities.
If you would like to find out more about the medical services we provide, call us today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment now via our online form. We look forward to serving you.
