Tag Archives: thumb popping

“It’s a Pain in the Thumb”

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Pain in the thumb is no laughing matter, and anyone who is experiencing it will tell you that. The thumb is a crucial structure that is in use constantly in daily activities. When it is working properly, we don’t give it a thought. But when it is sore, it is a painful presence, affecting most of what we do with our hands.

The thumb is connected to the wrist via the basal or carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. This joint, and its attached appendage, the thumb, are susceptible to arthritis for a number of different reasons. One condition that contributes to the problem is obesity, but other conditions may play a part as well; injury, aging, stress, genetics and overuse may also be factors that contribute to the development of arthritis of the thumb. When arthritis is present in a joint, the cartilage that protects bones from rubbing together has deteriorated, and the bone rubbing against the bone generates the pain. Other signs of this disorder can also be swelling, stiffness, or a reduction in strength or range of motion.

Oftentimes, this condition can be managed by non-invasive methods such as:

Rest
Ice
Anti-inflammatory drugs
Corticosteroid injections
Hand splints
Occupational therapy techniques specifically designed to ameliorate the problem

But don’t try to go it alone. Seek out a Board Certified Osteopathic doctor like Dr. Rehman for a complete evaluation and a thorough, comprehensive treatment plan. Her specialized team of hand therapists will work with you to attain the best success, and if it is eventually concluded that surgery is required, Dr. Rehman is an experienced, skilled hand surgeon. The delicate structure of the hand requires specialists to treat it gently and properly. If you are experiencing pain in the thumb or any other joint or hand pain, contact Dr. Rehman today.

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Why Does My Thumb Lock and Then Pop?

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If your thumb gets stuck in a bent position and then “pops” or clicks upon bending it back into a straight position, you may be experiencing trigger thumb (also called trigger finger). Trigger thumb symptoms range from mild to severe and include stiffness, popping, and even locking for extended periods of time. You may also have visible symptoms such as an actual bump at the base of the thumb.

What causes trigger thumb?

Trigger thumb is caused by a narrowing of the sheath covering the tendon in your thumb. Oftentimes, people’s work or hobbies can result in this condition, especially if you are continually utilizing your hand. Occupations in which trigger thumb is common include tradesman (those that work with hand tools each day), farmers, and even musicians, because they’re continually relying on their fingers and thumbs to make repetitive movements.

How is trigger thumb treated?

Typically trigger thumb is treated by an Orthopedic Doctor trained in the treatment of hand and upper extremity conditions. X-rays or lab tests typically are not necessary; the condition can be identified with a physical exam of the hand and fingers. Trigger finger can usually be treated through conservative methods that include one or more of the following:

  • Resting the hands
  • Applying cold packs
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Trigger finger exercises
  • Occupational therapy
  • Short-term splinting

Activities known to aggravate trigger thumb should be limited during the healing and recovery process. Your hand doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen to help comfort you, and speed up the recovery process. A corticosteroid injection may also be administered by your doctor.

In extreme conditions, hand surgery may be recommended to restore normal movement and functionality. Midwest Hand Therapy provides the highest quality assistance for each patient and their individual condition. If you are suffering from trigger thumb, or trigger finger, please contact our office today.

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