Women generally have more flexible ligaments. While great for overall mobility, it can lead to instability at the base of the thumb (the "saddle joint"), causing the cartilage to wear down faster.
The "Saddle" Struggle: Understanding Thumb Pain in Mature Women mature ladies thumbs
The opposable thumb is a relatively new evolutionary trait. The joint at the base must withstand forces 13 times greater than what you feel at your fingertips during a simple pinch, making it prone to early failure. Common Signs and Symptoms If you’re noticing these changes, you’re not alone: Women generally have more flexible ligaments