Joint Pain In The Fingers & Thumb

Joint pain in the fingers and thumb can be a result of various conditions that affect the delicate joints in the hand. Mr Waseem Bhat treats many older patients for this concern, as well as people who are affected by certain medical conditions and those who have experienced injury or trauma to one or more of their digits.

One common contributor to joint pain in the fingers and / or thumb is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage, often affecting the digits in the hands. As the cartilage wears away, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the fingers and thumb joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, is another cause of joint pain in the hands. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium, the lining of the membranes that surround the joints. This leads to inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage.

Gout is another type of arthritis that’s caused by the build up of uric acid crystals in the joints. This can also affect the fingers and thumb, causing sudden and intense pain, swelling, and redness.

The impact of joint pain in the fingers and thumb is significant, affecting daily activities that involve hand movements. Gripping objects, typing, writing, and even simple tasks like buttoning a shirt become challenging and painful. Morning stiffness is a common symptom, making it difficult for individuals to initiate hand movements upon waking.

Management of joint pain in the fingers and thumb often involves a combination of medications, such as pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, along with lifestyle modifications such as hand exercises and the use of assistive devices. In some cases, more advanced interventions, such as corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures, may be considered. Mr Waseem Bhat can perform joint replacement / fusions or CMCJ replacements to help alleviate pain and restore movement in the affected digit(s). Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment approach are essential to help enhance the overall quality of life for those affected.