Thumb Denervation

Targeted Relief for Chronic Thumb Pain — Without Losing Function

Chronic thumb pain can affect everything — from picking up a cup to unlocking your phone. If splints, injections, or physiotherapy haven’t helped, thumb denervation might be the next step.

At Sozo Clinic, we offer this minimally invasive surgical option to reduce pain without removing bone or compromising thumb function.

What Is Thumb Denervation?

Thumb denervation is a quick, low-risk procedure that disrupts the tiny nerves responsible for chronic pain in the thumb joint — especially in cases of arthritis or wear-and-tear.

  • You keep all the parts of your thumb
  • Only 2–3 small pain-sensing nerves are removed
  • The major sensory nerves that control touch and dexterity are not affected
  • Thumb strength and movement are preserved

In fact, most patients are back to light activity within days, with no long-term loss of function.

Who Is Thumb Denervation For?

Thumb denervation is a quick, low-risk procedure that disrupts the tiny nerves responsible for chronic pain in the thumb joint — especially in cases of arthritis or wear-and-tear. This procedure is ideal if you have:

  • Thumb base arthritis (often called CMC or trapeziometacarpal arthritis)
  • Ongoing pain despite splints, injections, or therapy
  • You want to avoid more invasive surgery (like joint fusion or bone removal)
  • You’re active, working, or want to preserve grip strength and recovery time

Before You Decide

At Sozo, we take a conservative-first approach. Surgery is never rushed. We’ll work through:

  • Splints or braces
  • Injections
  • Targeted physiotherapy

If you’ve tried all the right things — and you’re still in pain — we’ll guide you through whether denervation is the right choice for you.

What Happens During the Procedure?

At Sozo, we take a conservative-first approach. Surgery is never rushed. We’ll work through:

  • Outpatient procedure (you go home the same day)
  • Done under local or general anaesthetic
  • Uses the same incision as traditional thumb surgery — but without removing bone
  • Takes about 30 minutes
  • Minimal post-op discomfort and fast return to function

If you’ve tried all the right things — and you’re still in pain — we’ll guide you through whether denervation is the right choice for you.

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What Recovery Looks Like

Week 1:

• Soreness and swelling are normal
• Use ice packs and prescribed pain relief
• Keep your hand elevated when possible

Weeks 2–4:

• Gentle movement begins
• You may start light therapy if needed
• No cast or splint required long-term
• Many return to work or light activity within this time

Results & Success Rates

Most patients experience:

  • Reduced pain with daily tasks

  • Preserved or improved thumb strength

  • No major restrictions in movement

Over 70% of patients report long-term satisfaction, especially those treated early before severe joint deformity.

What are the Risks?

As with any surgery, risks are low but possible:

  • Infection
  • Persistent pain
  • Localised nerve irritation

Your Sozo surgeon will go through all risks and benefits with you in detail during your consultation.

How Does Denervation Compare to Other Surgeries?

Thumb denervation offers pain relief without compromise.

If chronic thumb pain is interfering with your life, you don’t have to live with it.

Thumb denervation is a modern, effective solution with minimal downtime — performed by Sozo’s experienced hand surgeons. Let’s get you back to using your hands the way you want to.

Sozo aims to deliver successful treatments so patients can get on with their lives pain free