Now it's in my thumbs...

jonr
jonr Member Posts: 425
edited 19. Oct 2024, 22:44 in Living with arthritis

Hello all,

I've been managing the OA in my knees pretty well these past couple of years but I now believe it's spread to one of my thumbs, the base joint to be precise.

I manage my knees with a combination of pain management and physio/sport/weight training but am at a bit of a loss as to how to get some relief for my thumb.

Have any Forum members who suffer with Arthritic hands any suggestions to help manage symptoms?

Thanks,

Jon

Comments

  • Trish9556
    Trish9556 Member Posts: 751
    edited 17. Oct 2024, 13:18
    20241017_141654.jpg

    Hi @jonr

    Yup, that's me!

    Keep your hands moving as much as you can, use a decent splint with removal metal bits on that doesn't stop at the base of your hand. Carrying things will be painful.

    Keep your hands warm. Those little packs of magic, hot hands, are worth their weight in gold. Cheaper to buy in bulk from online selling sites. They fit perfectly inside splints, gloves, pockets and hands, lasting about 12 hours.

    Dont use creams u less it's just before you go to bed and under gloves. Waste if money as you're washing your hands all day.

    Therapy putty and exercise balls that are egg shaped an essential. They come in different weights and can be used while sat reading or watching TV. Just play with it, pulling, rolling and stretching.

    Search on my name and you'll find lots of stuff on my specialist subject of thumbs plus some exercise sheets from my hand therapist.

    Shout out if you need anything!

    Trish xx

  • jonr
    jonr Member Posts: 425

    Thanks so much @Trish9556, great advice and helpful as always!

    Take care,

    Jon

  • Trish9556
    Trish9556 Member Posts: 751
    https://community.versusarthritis.org/discussion/comment/727638#Comment_727638

    Thanks @jonr

    One very important thing I did forget. Cutting up food on your plate can be very painful. Especially when eating out. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help cutting it up. If you're in a restaurant you frequently visit they will usually serve your plate in manageable pieces if you explain. Likewise carrying plates of food in one hand is a thing of the past. Spread the load using both hands.

    Trish xx

  • PRYorkshire
    PRYorkshire Member Posts: 1

    I have had arthritis in my hands for quite a few years and working with my GP have found that a course of steroid injections into the base of my thumbs has helped reduce the pain and improve movement of my thumb. Initially I had an injection in each thumb every 4 months but after a few years I now find I hardly need an injection. I also sleep in fingerless elasticated gloves to provide warmth and support and strengthen my thumb by squeezing a soft foam ball.

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