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Overview of Thumb Joint Pain
Thumb joint pain, also known as thumb arthritis or basal joint arthritis, is a painful condition that affects the joint in the base of the thumb. It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage that covers the joint. This condition usually affects people over the age of 40, and is more common in women than in men.
Symptoms of Thumb Joint Pain
The most common symptom of thumb joint pain is pain and stiffness in the base of the thumb. Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty gripping objects with the thumb
- Swelling around the thumb
- Tenderness at the base of the thumb
- Weakness in the thumb muscles
- A grinding sensation when using the thumb joint
Causes of Thumb Joint Pain
Thumb joint pain is often caused by wear-and-tear over time. Other causes can include:
- An injury or repetitive use of the thumb
- Osteoarthritis of the thumb joint
- Rheumatoid arthritis or gout
- Infection of the thumb joint
Diagnosing Thumb Joint Pain
If you are experiencing thumb joint pain, it is important to seek medical attention. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may also recommend an X-ray or MRI to diagnose the condition.
Treating Thumb Joint Pain
Treatment for thumb joint pain depends on the cause and severity. Common treatments may include:
- Resting and icing the joint
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or injections
- Investing a splint or brace to support the joint
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
It is important to take steps to prevent further damage to the thumb joint. This includes avoiding repetitive activities that may aggravate the joint, taking over-the-counter pain medications to reduce inflammation, and exercising to keep the joint flexible.
Keywords
Thumb Joint Pain, Thumb Arthritis, Basal Joint Arthritis, Cartilage Breakdown, Injury, Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, Infection, Diagnosis, Treatment, Physical Therapy, Surgery
