Thumb pain, explained in plain words
Rhizarthrosis is arthritis at the base of your thumb. It makes opening jars, turning keys, and gripping things hurt. We read the medical studies so you do not have to, and we explain what they say in simple words.
read and explained
to where it comes from
as it comes out
Where are you right now?
Most people come here at one of three moments. Pick the one that sounds like you, and we will walk you through it step by step.
What is wrong with my thumb?
What this condition is, why it hurts, and why finding out does not mean you need surgery. Simple words, no scary terms. Start with the basics →
What can I try before surgery?
Braces, hand exercises, and injections. We explain what really helps, how well it works, and how long to give it a chance. See the non-surgery options →
Which operation is right for me?
The different surgeries and thumb implants, side by side, with real results and the questions to ask your surgeon. Compare the implants →
Guides for every question
How the thumb works
Why the base of the thumb wears out before other joints.
Read the guideHow it is diagnosed
The simple tests and X-rays a doctor uses to be sure.
Read the guideTreatments without surgery
Braces, exercises, and injections, and how well each one works.
Read the guideThumb braces
Which brace suits your hand, and when to wear it.
Read the guideSurgery options
The main operations, in plain words, with their good and bad points.
Read the guideThumb implants
The artificial joints, and how long they really last.
Read the guideGetting better after
What recovery looks like and how long it takes.
Read the guideWord list and trials
Hard words made simple, plus studies looking for patients now.
BrowseWhy this site exists
Built by a patient, because no patient should navigate thumb arthritis alone
“It started with a sharp pain at the base of my thumb. Opening jars, turning keys, gripping anything: suddenly everyday tasks became a struggle. My doctor said ‘rhizarthrosis’ and told me to come back when it gets worse. That wasn’t good enough for me.”
So began months of reading peer-reviewed journals, systematic reviews, and clinical trial data, and conversations with hand surgeons. The information patients need exists; it is just scattered across journals they cannot access or understand. This site changes that.
Read the full story →