We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Is Carpometacarpal Bossing?

Mary McMahon
By
Updated: Feb 09, 2024
Views: 16,182
Share

Carpometacarpal bossing is the formation of a bony mass at the top of the wrist due to trauma, strain, or a congenital condition. In some patients, it may be benign, requiring no action unless it grows or begins to cause problems. Other patients need treatment to address pain, soreness, or limited joint mobility. Conservative treatment options are successful in many cases, while surgery can be an option if the patient doesn’t respond to other treatments.

Some patients are born with carpometacarpal bossing, while others develop signs of the condition in middle age. A swelling can appear on the wrist, right where the metacarpal bones articulate. This should feel firm to the touch, and may be hot because of inflammation. The condition is sometimes confused with a ganglion cyst, making it important to receive a thorough evaluation to determine the cause of swelling on the upper portion of the wrist to make absolutely sure the patient has the right diagnosis.

A history of trauma can be a potential indicator, as can repetitive stress. Chronic inflammation around the joint may lead to the formation of a bone spur that grows over time. Basic treatment for the carpometacarpal bossing can include antiinflammatory drugs to lower swelling and stop the growth. Splinting and proper support can also help, especially if repetitive strain is the culprit. Patients who continue to experience pain and stiffness with these measures can discuss more aggressive options.

In surgery, a care provider can remove the spur and smooth the surrounding bone to discourage a recurrence of the condition. Sometimes a ganglion cyst forms alongside the carpometacarpal bossing, in which case it also needs to be removed. During healing, the patient may wear braces to support the joint and promote recovery. These can be removed once the doctor indicates it is safe. Periodic checkups may be required to determine if the bone spur is growing back, which can be a cause for concern in some cases.

People with a history of carpometacarpal bossing may want to pay close attention to the affected wrist to spot signs of recurrence as early as possible. Failed surgeries can occur if the doctor fails to remove all of the growth or doesn’t shave down the surrounding bone enough. Medications may also fail to suppress a return of the spur, especially if the patient stops taking them or doesn’t take them regularly. Imaging studies can be used to track the carpometacarpal bossing over time to allow doctors to identify changes that might be a cause for concern.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Editors' Picks

Related Articles

Discussion Comments
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

Learn more
Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/what-is-carpometacarpal-bossing.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.