The saddle joint is named for its resemblance to a saddle. Found at the base of the thumb, and known clinically as the basal joint, according to the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, the saddle joint is a common site for arthritis issues due to a gradual wearing away of cartilage, which can be attributed to osteoarthritis. Exercising the saddle joint not only helps preserve a range of motion when diagnosed with osteoarthritis, but it can also help tackle basal joint pain as the result of hand cramping and even carpal tunnel syndrome. Complete a range of saddle joint exercises daily under your doctor's direction.
Word Spell
One way to maintain a sufficient range of motion in the saddle joint is to exercise the joint of the base of the thumb by maneuvering it in different directions. By holding your hand straight in front of you, with your fingers extended and your thumb pointing toward the ceiling, you can then use your thumb to write your name in the air while keeping your hand and the rest of your fingers still. After spelling your name, try a few other words, choosing those which require you to stretch and retract your finger. Spell five to 10 words twice a day.
Thumb Stretch
If you're feeling pain throughout the day, stretching out your saddle joint is one exercise that helps to relieve the soreness traditionally associated with arthritis and other joint issues. Start by holding your hands in front of you, then twist your wrists so that your thumbs point toward you and your fingertips point toward the ceiling. Spread your fingers wide and stretch, focusing on pulling the area below your thumb back so your thumb lowers. Stretch for five to 10 seconds as long as you don't feel pain. If this exercise is painful, stop and talk to your doctor.
Wrist Bends
Your saddle joint pain probably also affects your wrist, which could result in limited flexibility. Maintain a high range of motion and stretch out a cramped wrist by extending your right hand in front of you with your elbow straight and your palm facing the ceiling. Reach with your left land and gently use it to apply pressure on the fingers of your right hand until you feel a slight stretch in the wrist and across the base of your hand, including your saddle joint. Hold for five to 10 seconds and repeat with your other hand.
Daily Exercise
Those with osteoarthritis and other joint issues can benefit from daily exercise, just like the rest of the general population. The trick is to engage in exercise that helps to strengthen your joints without aggravating your condition. While weight lifting and repetitive exercises could make your pain worse, low-impact exercises, such as water aerobics, help to engage the hands and wrists without negative effects. Make time for 30 minutes of beneficial exercise per day, but first talk to your doctor about the extent of your condition so that he can suggest appropriate activities.
References
- UW Medicine: Exercise and Arthritis
- Cedar Valley Hand Surgery: Basal Joint Arthritis of the Hand
- American Society for Surgery of the Hand: Arthritis: Base of the Thumb
- Orthapaedic Specialists of North Carolina: Active Elbow, Wrist and Hand Range of Motion Activities
- MayoClinic.com: Hand Exercises for People with Arthritis
