Knitting, gardening, crafting, painting, sewing or creative cooking….

Manual activities play an important role in daily life and contribute significantly to overall well-being. When rhizarthrosis develops, however, these hobbies can become painful, tiring or increasingly difficult.

Does this mean you have to give up what you enjoy?

The answer is no. As with physical activity, it is often possible to continue manual hobbies, provided they are sensibly and appropriately adapted.

Why do manual activities become more difficult with rhizarthrosis?

Rhizarthrosis is a form of osteoarthritis that affects the thumb carpometacarpal joint (trapeziometacarpal joint) at the base of the thumb.

This joint is essential for:

• gripping and pinch movements,
• fine motor skills,
• strength and stability of the thumb.

Most manual activities rely heavily on these functions. Repetitive movements, prolonged gripping or twisting actions can therefore lead to:

• pain during or after the activity,
• reduced precision,
• rapid hand fatigue,
• apprehension when using the thumb.

These difficulties do not mean that the activity should be avoided, but rather that it needs to be adapted.

Which manual activities place the greatest strain on the thumb?

Some hobbies place greater demands on the thumb, particularly those involving:

• fine, prolonged pinch movements (knitting, embroidery, drawing),
• strong gripping (DIY, use of hand tools),
• repetitive movements (sewing, cutting, gardening),
• twisting and turning actions (opening jars, turning screws, kneading).

This does not mean these activities must be completely avoided, but they do require additional care and possible adjustments.

How can manual hobbies be adapted without giving them up?

1. Choose ergonomic tools and materials

Ergonomics plays a key role in managing rhizarthrosis. Simple adjustments can significantly reduce strain on the thumb:

• use of wide, non-slip handles,
• opting for lightweight tools,
• scissors, needles or brushes with thickened grips,
• avoiding materials that require excessive thumb pressure.

Especially for gardening or DIY activities, ergonomic tools can make a substantial difference.

 

2. Adapt duration and pace

With rhizarthrosis, it is not only the movement that matters, but also the length of exposure:

• divide activities into shorter sessions,
• take regular breaks,
• alternate between different tasks,
• stop the activity as soon as persistent pain appears.

The aim is not performance, but long-term sustainability.

3. Use a thumb orthosis when necessary

Wearing a thumb orthosis during certain manual activities can:

• stabilise the joint,
• limit painful movements,
• reduce inflammation after activity.

This can be particularly helpful for tasks requiring precision or strength. A healthcare professional can advise on the most suitable type of orthosis.

4. Maintain mobility and muscle strength

Contrary to common belief, complete immobilisation of the thumb is not beneficial in the long term.

Gentle exercises help to:

• maintain joint mobility,
• strengthen the muscles supporting the joint,
• reduce stiffness and pain.

A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can recommend targeted exercises tailored to your daily activities and hobbies.

What if pain persists despite these adjustments?

When pain remains significant despite adaptations (orthoses, conservative treatments, rehabilitation), further management options may be considered.

Depending on the stage of rhizarthrosis and the individual patient profile, surgical solutions may be available, with the aim to:

• provide lasting pain relief,
• restore thumb mobility,
• enable a return to daily activities and leisure pursuits.

Key points to remember

• Rhizarthrosis can make certain manual activities more challenging, but not impossible.
• Adapting tools, pace and movements allows many hobbies to be continued.
• Controlled movement is beneficial for long-term hand function.
• Professional guidance helps ensure activities are adapted safely and effectively.

This article is for informational purposes only.
Only a healthcare professional can assess your personal situation and recommend appropriate treatment.

Looking for a specialist near you? Consult our directory of hand surgeons and specialists.