M18: Arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joint
Arthrosis of the first carpometacarpal joint, also known as thumb arthritis, is a type of osteoarthritis which affects the joint at the base of your thumb. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the small bone in your thumb wears down, causing the bones to rub together thereby leading to bone damage and a breakdown of tissues around the joint. This condition can result in pain, swelling, stiffness and a reduced range of movement in your thumb, potentially limiting your ability to perform tasks which require manual dexterity. It commonly occurs due to normal wear and tear associated with aging but can also be related to injuries. Due to the progressive nature of this illness, symptoms typically worsen over time. The hand, being a crucial part of the musculoskeletal system, is directly affected, making simple tasks difficult as the condition advances.
Subcodes of M18:
- M18.0: Primary arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joints, bilateral
- M18.1: Other primary arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joint
- M18.2: Post-traumatic arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joints, bilateral
- M18.3: Other post-traumatic arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joint
- M18.4: Other secondary arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joints, bilateral
- M18.5: Other secondary arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joint
- M18.9: Arthrosis of first carpometacarpal joint, unspecified
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