Why Does My Palm Hurt Under My Thumb?
Pain under your thumb in your palm can stem from several sources. It's important to identify the cause for effective treatment.
Several conditions can cause pain in the palm under the thumb. These include:
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Thumb injury or overuse: Repetitive movements, like those involved in lifting or gripping, can strain the tendons and ligaments in this area, leading to pain. This is especially true for activities that require side-to-side hand movements (as noted in My Thumb Hurts - What's Wrong? Ohmyarthritis.com).
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Basal joint arthritis: Arthritis in the joint at the base of the thumb (carpometacarpal joint) is a common cause of pain in this area. This pain often worsens with gripping, grasping, or pinching (as per Thumb arthritis - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic).
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Carpal tunnel syndrome: While often associated with numbness and tingling in the fingers, carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause pain in the palm, sometimes radiating to the thumb area. Swelling in the carpal tunnel compresses the median nerve, leading to these symptoms (Carpal tunnel syndrome: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia).
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Ligament injuries: Injuries to the ligaments in your wrist and the lower part of your hand can also result in pain that you feel under your thumb. (Pain at the base of your thumb, Thumb Pain Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatments).
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De Quervain's tenosynovitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tendons around the thumb, leading to pain and swelling. The pain often worsens when gripping objects. (De Quervain's Tenosynovitis: Symptoms and Treatment, Thumb Tendonitis Symptoms & Treatment | Aurora Health Care).
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Soft tissue injury: A forceful stretch or direct blow to the hand can damage the soft tissues around the thumb, causing pain. (Soft Tissue Injury: Thumb | Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS ...)
Seeking Help
If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, numbness, or weakness, it's crucial to consult a doctor or physical therapist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate measures such as rest, ice, physical therapy, or medication. (Pain in the palm of the hand - NHS)
