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I can't figure out what is causing this pain in my thumb. I did nothing to injure it, it just all of a sudden became intense. Right now there seems to be weakness along with the pain, but that might be because it hurts to use it. There is no swelling or discoloration, just a pain that is radiating from the base of my thumb down into the fleshy part of my palm. Aspirin is not helping. Any ideas?
Carpal tunnel syndrome? Arthritis in the joint? Can't really tell, sorry. All I can tell you is that my thumb ached so badly, but not down into the palm, that I went to a hand surgeon. He showed me how the joint is collapsing and I now have a thumb brace to wear when it gets bad.
I had pain and weakness in my left thumb when I picked up heavy pots and pans, so I went to a hand doctor. The diagnosis was osteoarthritis. He prescribed an anti-inflammatory, and suggested physical therapy. Unfortunately, the physical therapy sessions cost $20 per visit (my insurance copay). Since I couldn't afford to pay $60 a week, I stopped going. I still have some weakness, but less pain.
Please go see a doctor, so you'll at least know what you're dealing with.
Can you have arthritis without any swelling? My mother has it, but her joints swell when it's bothering her. I was hoping since nothing was visible, that wouldn't be the case with me. Took an anti-inflammatory last night, it still hurts this am.
FWIW, that is close to the Li4 acupuncture point. Some possible causes are extensive use of a computer mouse (I switch hands periodically to avoid this), an unusual manifestation of gout, osteoarthritis (as has been mentioned), a pinched nerve anywhere from the joint to the spine, or an imbalance of body energies that an acupuncturist might be able to correct.
Yes, you can have arthritis without any swelling; that's what I have. My thumbs look normal!
Please go to a specialist, and go through the exam.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mattie
Can you have arthritis without any swelling? My mother has it, but her joints swell when it's bothering her. I was hoping since nothing was visible, that wouldn't be the case with me. Took an anti-inflammatory last night, it still hurts this am.
Possibly gout in the thumb with intense pain as you've described.
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