Weird thumb joint problem...ideas?

[jagec]

For months now I have had a problem with my left MCP joint (second joint down from the tip of my thumb). Essentially, I'll feel a sharp pain when I pull back on it from certain angles. Specifically, if I hold my hand vertically in front of me with my thumb pointing at my nose, pulling it down and to the left is the "bad" angle. My right thumb is 100% OK.

It's completely problem free 95% of the time...my grip strength is unaffected, I can flip coins or snap my fingers without a problem, and I can even pipette without feeling any pain at all. Which is why it always catches me off guard when it happens to get stretched at the right angle and I feel pain.

I haven't gone to the doctor because it is a pretty minor complaint and isn't getting any worse. But it isn't getting any better either. The joint itself does look a little different than my other thumb...somewhat more raised and a bit bigger. But it doesn't feel painful when I prod at it with my fingers, unless, again, I hit just the right angle.

So, is this just what starts happening to you as you age, or is this something that is worth trying to solve?

I feel silly posting such a minor complaint, but my body has been so trouble-free for so long that it bothers me when things stop working right. And my fiancee has a funny instinct about ALWAYS grabbing my hand at the wrong angle.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

Sounds like it could be some early osteoarthritis or perhaps a De Quervain's syndrome. If you think it's more joint related, you could start supplementing glucosamine (HCl or sulfate). That helps reduce joint pain associated with arthritis and may even help restore cartilage spacing. You could also stop using your thumbs in weird positions or excessively. This tends to be present in people who use their thumbs a lot (gamers, heavy texters, massage therapists, manual workers, etc). If it's a De Quervain's syndrome, it could have to do with muscle mobility, wrist mobility, etc and should be seen by a physical therapist or occupational therapist since it's a bit more complex.

 

[jagec]

Based on the Wikipedia for De Quervain's syndrome, I don't think it's that. Of course, I'm not a doctor.

I'll try the glucosamine and see if that does anything.

Thanks for the tips.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

Based on the Wikipedia for De Quervain's syndrome, I don't think it's that. Of course, I'm not a doctor.

I'll try the glucosamine and see if that does anything.

Thanks for the tips.

Keep in mind that it takes a long time for it to begin working - about 3-4mo. It's a longer-term thing so don't get discouraged if you don't feel better right off the bat.

If it does start to affect your day, see your doctor. There's probably not much they can or will do to help besides give you some meds, but they can give you a prescription to see a physical or occupational therapist. They can work to improve your function and reduce your discomfort.