Understanding Hand Arthritis
Arthritis in the hand—especially at the base of the thumb (the carpometacarpal or CMC joint)—is a common condition that can cause pain, swelling, decreased grip strength, and difficulty with everyday tasks like turning keys, opening jars, or writing. This form of osteoarthritis typically develops gradually due to wear and tear, and can significantly affect hand function and quality of life.
Dr. Iyengar offers both conservative and surgical treatments for hand arthritis, with a focus on preserving motion, reducing pain, and maintaining independence. The most commonly affected joints include the CMC joint at the base of the thumb, as well as the finger joints and wrist.
When should I consider treatment?
If you experience persistent hand pain, joint swelling, stiffness, or weakness—especially when pinching, gripping, or using your thumb—an evaluation may be appropriate. When conservative treatments are no longer effective, or if arthritis begins to interfere with your daily activities, surgical options can provide lasting relief.
Early diagnosis and treatment can help preserve joint motion and slow the progression of joint damage.
What are my treatment options?
Non-Surgical Options
For early or mild arthritis, Dr. Iyengar may recommend activity modification, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation. Custom thumb braces can also offload the affected joint and help maintain function.
CMC Arthroplasty (Thumb Joint Reconstruction)
For patients with advanced CMC arthritis who have failed non-surgical care, CMC arthroplasty is a highly effective procedure. This surgery involves removing the arthritic portion of the trapezium bone at the base of the thumb and reconstructing the joint using a tendon graft or implant. The goal is to eliminate pain while preserving thumb strength and mobility.
Dr. Iyengar tailors the procedure to each patient’s needs—offering both traditional ligament reconstruction and tendon interposition (LRTI) and newer implant-based techniques depending on joint stability, bone quality, and activity level.
Other Surgical Options
For arthritis in other joints of the hand, surgical options may include joint debridement, fusion (arthrodesis), or replacement, depending on the location and severity of degeneration. Each approach is selected to balance pain relief with the preservation of function.
Why choose Dr. Iyengar for arthritis surgery?
As a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon, Dr. Iyengar has advanced expertise in both joint-preserving and reconstructive procedures. He brings a thoughtful, individualized approach to arthritis care—offering the latest surgical techniques alongside comprehensive non-operative management to help patients return to the activities they love.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery after CMC arthroplasty typically involves a short period of immobilization in a splint or cast, followed by a structured hand therapy program to restore range of motion and strength. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved hand function within a few months. Recovery timelines may vary depending on the surgical technique and severity of arthritis.
While arthritis is a progressive condition, early treatment and the right surgical approach can offer long-term relief and meaningful improvement in hand function.
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Check out galleryWhat our patients have to say.
Michael W
Dr Iyengar did a repair on an old eyelid surgery. Him and his staff were a pleasure to work with and I could not be happier with the results!
Laurie A.
Dr. Raj Iyengar is awesome!!! I had 3 areas of botox today (glabella, crow's feet, and forehead). I had absolutely no pain and zero bruising. He was very informative throughout the procedure, and very kind. A great experience
Christina R.
I am 6 days post brow lift, blephraplasty, nanofat transfer, and neck lipo with Renuvion, and I already see a significant difference. I am SO excited already, and I’m still healing. Dr Iyengar has an incredible bed side manner, remembers little details about his patients, and has an impeccable résumé. I made the right choice trusting him with my face!
Ron L.
I’m glad to have this doctor and his staff on my side. When I heard the words skin cancer I went through a WIDE verity of feelings. I got worse case scenario and it scared me. After some reassurance I felt much better. I’m amazed at the complexity of the surgery and how well everything went. Just 6 weeks after surgery I’m feeling much better about the future look that everyone will see when they see my smiling face. Thanks Dr. Iyengar. I’ll share photos with anyone interested.
Jenny M.
I’m incredibly grateful that I was referred to Dr. Iyengar for my breast reconstruction surgery. From the very first consultation, he has been an absolute blessing throughout the entire process. His kindness, super friendliness (a rare trait), helpfulness, caring nature, and outstanding service are truly remarkable. Additionally, his extensive knowledge and confident responses to my questions, along with his ability to treat me with personable care, make him an exceptional surgeon.
Quality care in all realms of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
We see our patients as individuals, not just cases on the schedule. Dr. Iyengar makes every effort to get to know his patients personally and thoroughly understand their goals. This personalized approach ensures that every patient receives the highest quality care and achieves the results of their dreams! Dr. Iyengar executes every procedure with precision, integrity and utmost care.
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