The most likely reason your elbow hurts when you use your thumb is due to a condition known as tennis elbow or a similar condition affecting the tendons in your elbow.
Understanding the Connection: Tennis Elbow and Thumb Use
Although named "tennis elbow," this condition isn't limited to tennis players. It develops when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow (the lateral epicondyle) become damaged. These muscles are involved in extending your wrist and fingers, which are motions also engaged when you use your thumb for gripping, pinching, or other activities.
How Thumb Use Aggravates Elbow Pain
Using your thumb often indirectly engages the forearm muscles that are connected to the affected tendons at the elbow. Activities that involve gripping, twisting, or repetitive hand movements can strain these tendons, leading to pain and discomfort at the elbow. This is why you might feel the pain more acutely when using your thumb.
Possible Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Overuse: Repetitive movements involving the wrist, fingers, and thumb can strain the tendons.
- Poor Technique: Incorrect form during sports or other activities can place extra stress on the elbow.
- Weak Muscles: Weak forearm muscles are more susceptible to injury.
- Age: Tendons become less flexible with age, making them more prone to injury.
- Activities: Certain activities, such as gardening, carpentry, or typing, can increase your risk.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow:
- Pain or burning on the outer part of your elbow.
- Weak grip strength.
- Pain that worsens with activity.
- Pain that radiates into your forearm.
- Tenderness to the touch on the outside of your elbow.
What to Do:
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your pain.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to your elbow for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Stretching and Exercises: Specific exercises can help strengthen your forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
- See a Doctor: If your pain is severe or doesn't improve with home treatment, consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment. They may recommend physical therapy, a brace, or, in rare cases, surgery.
It's important to see a doctor or physical therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Other conditions, such as medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow), although less likely given your description, can cause pain around the elbow. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
