Arthritis is joint inflammation and commonly occurs at the base of the thumb.
Osteoarthritis in the hands or hips may run in families, or be caused by injuries, overuse, muscle strain, or fatigue. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, a narrow confined space. Since the median nerve provides sensory and motor functions to the thumb and three middle fingers, many symptoms may result. The following are the most common symptoms for carpal tunnel syndrome, however, each individual may experience symptoms differently. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may resemble other conditions such as tendonitis, bursitis, or rheumatoid arthritis.