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Ouch! My Thumbs Hurt!
By Theresa Bell-Nagle, OTR/L, CHT
Have you ever reached for a milk carton and jump in pain? Is it hard to turn the key in the ignition? Can’t open a water bottle? Did you know that most women over 40 have the start of osteoarthritis in the base of their thumbs?
Osteoarthritis in this area has several names including basal joint arthritis and Carpometacarpal (CMC joint). Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, decreased fine motor coordination and often an enlarged bump at the base of the thumb. After confirming your diagnosis by a hand surgeon and an x-ray, your doctor can refer you to a Certified Hand Therapist also known as CHT. The CHT can reduce pain and swelling in the CMC joint by fabricating a custom thumb splint. The custom splinting may include low temperature thermoplastics and/or neoprene wraps. There are also prefabricated (off the shelf braces) that may be appropriate; however, many brands have only a few sizes that may not provide the support or sizing that you need.
The CHT may also prescribe a home exercise program and have the patient attend a few therapy sessions including treatment with modalities such as: hot packs, paraffin wax, ultrasound, therapeutic exercises, joint protection techniques, adaptive equipment ideas, and soft tissue massage, to name a few. Treatment ideas from a hand therapist can improve overall function in your hands to help keep them healthy. Consider a visit to our clinic for an evaluation at 2 Thumbs Up Hand Therapy today.
Theresa Bell-Nagle, OTR/L, CHT
Theresa Bell-Nagle, OTR/L, CHT is the owner of 2 Thumbs Up Hand Therapy which is a specialized clinic providing Occupational Therapy to the Upper Extremity. All therapists at 2 Thumbs Up Hand Therapy are Certified Hand Therapists which means they have achieved the highest level of competency in the profession. To learn more about us or schedule an appointment, call (508) 746-4434.
2 Thumbs Up Hand Therapy, LLC
225 Water Street Suite C104
Plymouth, MA 02360
Phone 508 746-4434
Fax 508 746-4432
www.2thumbsuphandtherapy.com
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