Thumb Arthroplasty & Thumb Arthritis Surgery in Columbus, GA

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When Thumb Pain Limits Your Life

Arthritis at the base of the thumb, also known as carpometacarpal (CMC) arthritis, affects nearly one in five adults over the age of 55, and the risk increases with age. If you struggle with persistent pain, weakness or limited thumb motion, you’re far from alone.

What Is Thumb Arthroplasty (CMC Joint Replacement)?

Thumb arthroplasty is a procedure to replace the carpometacarpal joint, a damaged joint at the base of your thumb. The goal is to reduce pain, improve movement and restore grip strength so you can use your hand with confidence. The team at Columbus Hand Institute (CHI) only recommends this procedure after careful evaluation and when conservative treatment options haven’t provided relief.

Thumb arthroplasty is an outpatient surgery performed by Dr. Blake, our founder and lead surgeon. With a background in both surgery and physical therapy, Dr. Blake brings a unique, function-first perspective to every case, focusing on biomechanics, healing and prevention, rather than just fixing a joint.

Signs You May Need Thumb Arthroplasty

CMC arthritis can develop gradually, and many people don’t realize how much function they’ve lost until daily tasks become difficult or painful. You may be a candidate for thumb arthroplasty if you’re experiencing:

  • Ongoing pain at the base of your thumb
  • Weakness or reduced grip strength
  • Difficulty opening jars or grasping small objects
  • Swelling or visible changes in the shape of the thumb joint
  • Pain that hasn’t improved with therapy, bracing or other treatments

At CHI, we take the time to confirm the source of your symptoms and understand the whole picture. We may recommend an on-site extremity MRI to provide a fast and accurate diagnosis without needing to send you to an outside imaging center.

Why Choose Columbus Hand Institute for Thumb Arthroplasty

We don’t rush to surgery.

Dr. Blake is known for his conservative-first approach, prioritizing nonsurgical care whenever possible. If surgery does become the best option, you’ll be in expert hands.

Here’s what makes CHI different:

  • Surgical expertise + therapy experience: Dr. Blake’s unique dual background as both a surgeon and a Doctor of Physical Therapy means your surgery and recovery plan are built with both function and healing in mind.
  • Our collaborative “hand team”: Our close-knit team of Dr. Blake and PAs Heather and Jonathan will support you. They coordinate every step of your care, from your first visit through post-op recovery.
  • Personalized support: Dr. Blake is known for listening carefully, sitting below eye level and creating a comfortable, unintimidating environment.
  • Post-op wellness mindset: We incorporate nutritional supplements, herbal anti-inflammatory options and detailed rehab plans to support your healing journey.

Our goal isn’t just to fix a joint. It’s to help you get back to doing the things that matter with less pain and more confidence.

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What to Expect During Thumb Arthroplasty Surgery

Thumb arthroplasty is an outpatient procedure, meaning you go home the same day.
Here’s a general overview of the process:

  • Step 1: Pre-surgical evaluation — We’ll explore conservative options first, such as therapy, bracing and supplements, before recommending surgery.
  • Step 2: Surgery day — Dr. Blake performs the surgery with a focus on precision, tissue preservation and long-term function.
  • Step 3: Recovery — You’ll begin a stepwise recovery plan, which may include bracing and physical therapy as needed. Most patients notice improvements in pain and function within the first few weeks, with full recovery typically taking a few months.

Throughout your care, our team will guide you every step of the way by checking in regularly, answering questions and helping you get back to doing what you love.

We also believe in setting realistic expectations. Appointment times may vary, and Dr. Blake often spends extra time with each patient to ensure that you receive a complete and personalized evaluation.

Conservative Alternatives to Thumb Arthroplasty

Not everyone with thumb arthritis needs surgery. In fact, many people find relief through non-surgical care.

At CHI, we offer:

  • Bracing to reduce strain and improve joint positioning
  • Therapy and exercise programs to strengthen and support the surrounding tissues
  • Nutritional supplements and herbal anti-inflammatories to manage pain and promote healing

We’ll help you explore these options first and only consider surgery if pain and function don’t improve.

Ready to Find Relief?

If thumb pain is making life more difficult, our expert hand team is here to help. Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or exploring treatment for the first time, we’ll provide a thorough evaluation and thoughtful care plan built just for you.

Schedule your consultation today to take the next step toward lasting relief and restored function.