Does cortisone injection treat thumb arthritis?

Basal thumb arthritis affects the joint at the base of the thumb, where it meets the wrist. Irritation in this joint can make pinching, opening jars, writing, or turning keys painful. Cortisone may quiet inflammation and reduce pain, but it does not rebuild cartilage or change the shape of the joint.

The amount and duration of relief vary. A clinician may use examination and imaging to confirm the painful joint and distinguish it from tendon, nerve, or wrist conditions.

Discuss a combination of thumb support, hand therapy, pacing, and pain-relieving options with a clinician. A splint can reduce strain during selected activities, while therapy can address movement and pinch technique. If you are considering a Cortisone Injection, ask how the joint will be located and what activities to avoid afterward.

Notice which grips cause pain and use larger handles or two hands where practical. Do not force a painful pinch simply because the injection has made the thumb feel better.

Seek prompt care if the thumb becomes suddenly unusable after an injury, looks out of place, or develops new numbness. Contact a clinician urgently for fever, spreading redness, warmth, or worsening swelling after an injection.

Ask which joint is responsible for the pain, whether a splint or hand therapy should come first, how long to protect the thumb after injection, and what options remain if pain returns.