Thumb pain – causes, how to treat?

Those who experience thumb pain know very well how bothersome and persistent this type of ailment can be. The thumb is a hallux that plays a key role in our daily activities, so any ailment related to it can significantly affect the quality of our life. In this article, we will discuss the causes of thumb pain, necessary diagnostic tests, treatment methods, and effective exercises and home remedies that will help relieve the pain and restore the functionality of our thumb.

What are the causes of thumb pain?

Thumb pain can have a variety of causes. Some of the most common causes are:

• Overload and overactivity: Performing repetitive movements, especially while working or playing sports, can overload the thumb and cause pain.
• Dislocation or sprain: Injuries to the thumb, such as dislocations or sprains, can cause pain and limited thumb movement.
• Arthritis of the thumb: Inflammatory joint diseases such as arthritis of the thumb (e.g. RA) can cause pain and swelling.
• Arthritis: Progressive wear and tear of the articular cartilage of the thumb can lead to pain and loss of joint function.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition can cause pain in the thumb, especially when grasping and holding objects.

Thumb diseases – what tests should be performed?

If you experience thumb pain, it is important to perform appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the pain. The most important studies include:

• Radiological examination: An X-ray of the thumb can help identify injuries, sprains, arthrosis, and other joint changes.
• Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): These advanced imaging techniques allow for a more accurate assessment of joint and soft tissue structures.
• Blood test: Blood tests, especially CRP and rheumatoid RF tests, can help diagnose inflammatory joint diseases.
• Electromyography (EMG): EMG may be useful if carpal tunnel syndrome is suspected.

How to treat thumb pain?

Effective treatment for thumb pain depends on its cause. Here are some possible treatments:

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists can perform a variety of treatments such as manual therapy, massage, strengthening and stretching exercises to help restore mobility and reduce thumb pain. Also, using thermal treatments such as heat or cold therapy may provide relief.

Rehabilitation

In the case of more serious injuries or after thumb surgery, rehabilitation is a key element of the process of returning to full fitness. Rehabilitation conducted by an experienced physiotherapist will help restore full function of the thumb.

Exercises at home and home remedies

Regularly performing exercises to strengthen and stretch your thumb can help relieve pain and improve its function.Additionally, using home remedies such as ice or heat compresses may provide relief from pain.

Your suggestions

If you have your own experience with treating thumb pain or would like to share your suggestions on how to combat this condition, please feel free to share them in the comments below.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of thumb pain, we also recommend that you check out our other articles on this topic:

• Thumb and keyboard – how to avoid pain when working on a computer?
• What exercises can help prevent thumb pain?
• The best products for relieving thumb pain – reviews and tips

It is worth remembering that thumb pain should not be underestimated, as it may lead to deterioration of health and loss of mobility.If the condition persists or worsens, it is always worth consulting a doctor or orthopedic specialist who will help determine an appropriate treatment plan.

Let’s take care of our thumbs, because their performance affects many aspects of our everyday life.