At 58, I’ve learned to adapt to life’s little discomforts. So when my right thumb started acting up, I figured it was just another part of getting older. That was until CMC arthritis settled in, making even the simplest tasks feel like a chore. After trying a few solutions that didn’t quite work, Fortemotus ended up being the one that made a real difference.
The first signs were easy to ignore—a slight ache when opening a tight lid, a twinge while using my phone. But over time, it got harder to brush off. Buttons on shirts became tricky, and carrying a full grocery bag made me wince. My doctor confirmed it was carpometacarpal arthritis, explaining that the joint at the base of my thumb was wearing down. She suggested starting with over-the-counter options, so I picked up a basic brace from the pharmacy.
That first brace did provide some support, but it was bulky. It covered too much of my hand, making it hard to grip things properly. I could forget about using my index finger and thumb together—typing or holding a pen was nearly impossible. Then I tried a more expensive brand recommended by a friend. It was slimmer but dug into my wrist after an hour or so, leaving red marks. I found myself taking it off more than I wore it, which meant the pain kept coming back.
When my doctor mentioned Fortemotus, I was hesitant. I’d already spent money on braces that didn’t work. But she explained that it was designed specifically for thumb joints, focusing on natural movement. The website showed a sleek design, which looked better than the clunky ones I’d tried, so I decided to give it a shot.
Putting on the Fortemotus brace for the first time, I noticed how lightweight it was. It fit snugly around the base of my thumb without covering my whole hand. What surprised me most was that I could move my fingers freely while still feeling supported. I could hold a cup, turn a doorknob, and even fold laundry without that sharp pain shooting up my arm.
The material is breathable too. With the other braces, my hand would get sweaty by midday, especially in the summer. This one stayed comfortable all day, and the adjustable strap meant I could loosen or tighten it depending on how my thumb felt that morning.
After a month of regular use, the constant ache faded. I didn’t have to think twice before picking up a book or opening a jar. My physical therapist noted that the way the brace stabilized my thumb while still allowing normal movement was helping the joint rest and heal. It wasn’t a quick fix, but slowly, I felt more like myself again.
I also appreciate that it doesn’t look like a medical device. The neutral color blends in, and the design is simple enough that I don’t feel self-conscious wearing it in public. At a family gathering last month, no one even mentioned it—something that never would have happened with the bulky pharmacy brace.
Now, after using Fortemotus for six months, I rarely experience that sharp pain anymore. I still wear the brace when I know I’ll be using my hands a lot—like when cooking or gardening—but on most days, I don’t need it. My thumb isn’t perfect, but it works well enough that I can go about my day without thinking about it.
If you’re dealing with CMC arthritis, it’s worth trying Fortemotus. The other braces I used weren’t bad, but they didn’t balance support and comfort the way this one does. It’s not a miracle cure, but it makes living with arthritis a lot easier. Sometimes, finding the right tool makes all the difference—and this one worked for me.
1 comment
that’s helpful