Joe A Shaw PA-C - 9/15/2008

Question
In the past 2-3 weeks, I have developed pain in the basil joint (or below) of my left thumb (I am right-handed). The pain is strong and aches when I first wake up and decreases as the day goes on. It is not painful unless I move it. No injury that I am aware of and no history of other arthritis. No pain at all in the right thumb. I am 60 years old. Any idea what this might be?
Thanks!

Answer
Joan,
This is not that uncommon..esp as we get older. The CMC joint carpometacarpal or basal joint..can wear down over the yrs and degenerative changes occur causing pain stiffness in the A.M but gets a little better as you use it. You can try biofreeze or orthogel or Ibuprofen type cream massaged in 3 x day for 2-3 wks or as needed.OTC tylenol or advil per label. Moist heat and range of motion exercises may help. If not better see your DR..for Rx or cortisone inj.

links below may be helpful
 http://www.handuniversity.com/topics.asp?Topic_ID=24

http://www.carpal-tunnel-symptoms.com/pain-relief-creams.html

http://www.carpal-tunnel-symptoms.com/ice-wraps.html

http://www.carpal-tunnel-symptoms.com/arthritis.html