Strength and grip after basal thumb surgery

Bones, joints and muscles
1

I have osteoarthritis of the right thumb joints (cmc  trapezium and scap joint). I'm 48, still very active (aerobics with weights, yoga, bike riding) and use the computer for my job (I've worked at reducing mouse use as much as possible). I just had my first cortisone shot yesterday (TORTURE) in the trap joint. My doc does not want me to have surgery due to strength loss for my age. She implied I should not consider it until Im in my 60s. I'm worried about quality of life and further degeneration. I would like to have the surgery (either removal or arthro). I had a bunionectomy at 40 with no complications. 

Has anyone here had basal thumb surgery who was very active before (exercise, weights, yoga, etc) and, if so, would you mind describing how returning (were you even able to?)  to your sports activities has been for you as far as strength and grip?  I would be most grateful.

Thank you and blessings

2

Hi Karen,

I have been having PRP injections in my thumb joints for the last 4 years and they have worked for me. I would do anything to avoid surgery. Initially I had to have three injections of my plasma two weeks apart and now are having one injection about every 5 months. For me it has made my life easier and I spend 3 days a week at the gym doing weights and boxing which I certainly could not do before.

3

Hi Karen,

Sorry to hear this.

Only nearest thing was when my husband had all his metatarsal joints taken away (except for his big toes) due to OA.

He was adviced to get one foot done at a time but he knew if he didn't get both he may not want to go back for the other one. He got both feet done and never looked back. It took a few months of painful recouperation .

Not exactly the same as your thumbs but just another slant.

Take care and all the best