Basal joint suspension arthroplasty therapy

1-3 weeks:

The postoperative dressing is removed. A Short Arm Thumb Spica cast is applied.

The patient is instructed in thumb IP and finger Active Range of Motion and Passive Range of Motion

3-6 weeks:

The cast is removed, and sutures are removed. The patient is placed in a short arm thumb spica (either a thermoplastic splint or cast).

6 weeks:

Cast is removed and the patient is placed in a hand-based thumb spica splint.

Active and gentle Passive Range of Motion exercises are initiated to the wrist and thumb 15 min/hr.

A Thumb Web Spacer splint is applied to be worn between exercises and at night as needed for protection.

7 weeks:

Taping and/or Dynamic flexion splinting may be initiated as needed to increase Passive Range of Motion.

Graded thenar strength building is started.

Daytime splinting is discontinued.

10 - 12 weeks:

Normal use may be resumed without restrictions. Nighttime splinting is discontinued unless first web space adduction contracture is noted.