Clinical Reference Only: Protocols are cataloged from third-party sources and provided for reference only. Treating clinicians must verify current accuracy and follow the operative report and surgeon's specific instructions.

CMC Arthroplasty Rehabilitation Protocols

5 CMC Arthroplasty rehabilitation protocols from 4 institutions, published 2017. Weight-bearing progressions vary by institution — compare them in the table below before selecting a protocol.

Compare by institution

InstitutionWeight-BearingKey Restrictions
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center — Ligament Reconstruction… N/A Cast (thumb in palmar abduction, MP 10-20 deg flexion, wrist neutral) until 4-6 wks; splint at all times 4-7…
Orthopaedic Associates of Maine — APL Suspension FWB; short arm thumb spica splint from 2 wks Post-op dressing 0-2 wks; thumb spica splint from 2 wks (except showering); no lifting until 6 wks; therapy…
University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery — Thumb CMC… NWB surgical UE No lifting/pushing/pulling; grip/pinch with minimal to no resistance; orthosis protection; cast 2-3 weeks…
University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery — Thumb CMC… NWB surgical UE No lifting/pushing/pulling; grip/pinch with minimal to no resistance; orthosis protection for functional…
UW Health Orthopedic Surgery; UnityPoint Health - Meriter… NWB surgical UE No resistive gripping or pinching; no lifting >1 lb Phase I; no resistive pinch/grip until 8 wks post-op

All 5 CMC Arthroplasty protocols

CMC Arthroplasty — Ligament Reconstruction Tendon Interposition (LRTI) — Thumb CMC Arthroplasty
Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
E. Tolo, MD (approving); P. Ryle, OT; L. Shepard, OT · 2017-08
CMC Arthroplasty — APL Suspension
Orthopaedic Associates of Maine
CMC Arthroplasty — Thumb CMC Arthroplasty — Suspensionplasty
University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery
09/2024
CMC Arthroplasty — Thumb CMC Arthroplasty — LRTI
University of Virginia Orthopaedic Surgery
09/2024
CMC Arthroplasty — Thumb CMC Arthroplasty
UW Health Orthopedic Surgery; UnityPoint Health - Meriter Rehabilitation
Dr. Gander; Dr. Kruse; Dr. Michelotti; Dr. Salypongse; Dr. Tofte; Dr…