Osteoarthritis In Thumbs and Big toes

Posted , 4 users are following.

I am male age 47. I have Osteoarthritis mainly in my thumbs and big toes but also get the same pain in my shoulders.

My question is: I have just been in the Garden and was breaking some Bamboo Stems to put in the recycling and when the stems snapped my fingers/knuckles banged together (hard). The pain I normally get at the base of my thumbs and into my thumb is now very severe and doesn't seem to be wearing off. I can move them ok but it's very painful. I have just taken my regular does of Co-Codamol but it's not helping. Has it just agrivated it ? Or may I have done some other damage ?

1 like, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Posted

    I have the same problem if I catch the thumb, I literally scream as it's so painful and the pain is oftern worse for several days following this.  I would think that this is what is happening to you, but maybe you should give your GP a ring to be sure, as an X-ray might be necessary. 

    • Posted

      The worst area on the thumb itself is right on the joint, on the inside of the thumb. The slightest touch hurts so much, and knocking them today has just made it so much worse. I struggle when I'm driving, I go down with my hand to change gear and as soon as my hand touches the gear stick I shout out in pain. Since knocking them today, I can't pick a cup up.

    • Posted

      Don't forget the out of hours GP service matey. Don't suffer and wait for your GP unless you think you can? Depending on where you are there may also be a 24 hour walk in centre?  Alternatively I find our local Pharmacists (late opener usuallyt available) good for this sort of thing.

  • Posted

    Hi.  It's very likely that you've just set off an inflammation reaction but if you're really concerned it might be worth getting it checked out at the doctors.  I've done similar with my thumbs and the pain is awful and takes a while to settle down.  Try an ice pack (bag of frozen peas works well) but dont leave it on the skin for too long, just a minute or two at a time - it really helps.  Also try an anti inflammatory pain gel or cream like voltarol gel, this works better for a flare up than taking pain meds.

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