WHAT WE TREAT:

Thumb Pain Treatment

Thumb pain can stem from various causes, often related to injury, overuse, inflammation, or structural issues.

Common Thumb Conditions

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

Inflammation of thumb-side wrist tendons, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty gripping, often caused by repetitive hand or wrist movements.

Trigger Thumb

Narrowing of the tendon sheath in the thumb, making it difficult to bend or straighten, often locking in place with a clicking sensation.

Sprains

Ligament injuries in the thumb, often from forceful hyperextension or trauma (e.g., “skier’s thumb”), leading to swelling, instability, and pain.

Thumb Osteoarthritis

Wear and tear of cartilage at the base of the thumb, causing pain, stiffness, weakness, and difficulty with gripping and pinching movements.

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)

Chronic thumb pain from repeated motion, such as excessive texting or typing, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and potential long-term damage.

Understanding these conditions helps identify the right treatment approach.

Symptoms of Thumb Pain

Symptoms vary based on the condition and structures involved. Common symptoms include:

Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb, worsened by gripping or twisting motions.
Pain, stiffness, and a clicking or locking sensation during thumb movement.
Pain, swelling, and instability of the thumb joint.
Pain during gripping or pinching, stiffness, swelling, and joint deformity

These symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life

Diagnosing Thumb Pain

Diagnosis starts with a detailed medical history to understand when symptoms began, triggers that worsen or improve pain, and how it affects daily life. A physical exam assesses thumb alignment, range of motion, and areas of discomfort. Your doctor may test the function of the thumb. If necessary, imaging or other diagnostic tests are used to confirm the underlying cause and guide treatment options.