Definition
Rhizoarthritis is a degenerative process that affects the trapeziometacarpal joint, located at the base of the thumb.
The rhizoarthrosis is due to the wear of the articular cartilage of the aforementioned joint; this results in a gradual impairment of the thumb movement.
The rhizoarthrosis usually begins on the dominant hand. The causes that determine its onset include osteoarthritis, traumatic hand events and trapeziometacarpal joint injuries. Among the factors that favor its appearance include genetic predisposition and aging.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Hand and wrist pain
- Articolar pains
- Tingling in the right hand
- Tingling in the hands
- Joint swelling
- Joint stiffness
Further indications
The rhizoarthrosis manifests itself with pain at the base of the thumb, generally more accentuated during the carrying out of movements with the hand and can be evoked with the palpation of the interested area.
With the progression of rhizoarthrosis, pain tends to increase in intensity and gradually begins to manifest itself even when the joint is at rest. Arthrosis of the thumb causes swelling, decreased strength and functional limitation of the fingers; the patient, in particular, is unable to join the thumb and forefinger together, as the maneuver causes pain.
The diagnosis is confirmed by the orthopedic examination and by the targeted X-ray examination of the trapeziometacarpal joint.
The treatment of the rhizoarthritis involves the maintenance of the joint at rest by means of special braces, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and topical administration of corticosteroids by infiltration.
In many cases, instrumental physical therapy (ultrasound, iontophoresis, etc.) is applied, while the indication for surgical treatment is rare.
