Management of the basal joint of the thumb following interposition arthroplasty for pain and instability

Derangement of the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint of the thumb secondary to osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a source of pain and disability in many postmenopausal women. If surgery becomes necessary, the goals of postsurgical management are directed to relief of pain, joint protection and rest, and restoration of functional activity. This article describes the successful postsurgical rehabilitation of two patients with CMC joint arthritis of differing etiologies, and medical complexity, OA and RA, respectively, and different levels of medical complexity. Basal joint protection, passive range of motion, and gentle active exercise resulted in rapid functional recovery for these two patients.