Questions and Answers

Linda Writes... My thumb on my left hand has pain right where the thumb meets the hand, palm side. I have what feels like a protruding bone, kind of a little round ball at that spot. Could this be a bone spur? This isn't the first time I have had this, it has happened before. But after a week or two of pain it went away. This time the pain seems to be more pronounced. I also think I have a mild case of carpal tunnel. My hands are numb throughout the night, and when I do simple tasks such as put on make-up. I'd appreciate any information or diagnoses that you could give.

Hi Linda,
Thanks so much for taking the time to look at my website.
Your complaint regarding your thumb is extremely common and tends to make up about 50% of my caseload of hand patients.

Without actually seeing you it is hard to diagnose however your description is pretty good and I will do my best. You did not disclose your age or occupation which would be helpful. I suspect that you may have the symptoms of thumb base arthritis. The base of the thumb can appear swollen and sometimes the thumb can actually draw in towards the palm. Usually pinching, twisting, gripping activities are quite painful. The cartilage between the bones can "wear out" with overuse and age.

What you may want to do is see an Orthopedic Surgeon and have an evaluation, with an X-Ray. If the arthritis is mild your Physician may suggest some therapy, splinting, anti-inflammatory and rest. Get a baseline established with your MD. If this is more involved your Physician will guide you. Thumb joint arthritis can also cause symptoms of carpal tunnel as well. The nerve and the thumb base are very close in proximity.
Hope this helps, good luck with your thumb. Keep us posted.

 

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