Diagnosis | Pain in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb

Diagnosis

To clarify the cause of the pain in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb, a detailed diagnosis is important. In addition to the examination of the joints, X-rays, CT and MRI images can show the condition of the metacarpophalangeal joint. Bony or cartilaginous changes in and around the joint can thus be easily detected.

Blood values are also of great importance for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. Here the so-called rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibodies and inflammation values (CRP, BSG) are determined. An increase in these values would, for example, speak in favour of the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Therapy

In general, pain in joints, regardless of the trigger, is treated with NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) for a short period of time. These are intended to relieve the pain and eliminate an existing inflammation. In case of swelling, the joint must be immobilized and cooled.

The specific treatment of pain in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb depends on the cause.Thus acute attacks of rheumatoid arthritis are treated with glucocorticoids. A long-term therapy is carried out with so-called DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) such as methotrexate. Acute gout or arthrosis are also treated conservatively (without surgical intervention) with NSAIDs and glucocorticoids.

If the patient has torn ligaments or injured joints, immobilization and subsequent physiotherapy must also be performed. Painkillers are also prescribed in the first few months of carpal tunnel syndrome and immobilization of the wrist with a splint is recommended. If no relief can be achieved in this way, a surgical intervention must be considered.

If the pain in the metacarpo-phalangeal joint is caused by a torn ligament, which causes severe instability of the joint, surgery must also be performed to prevent chronic instability and thus recurrent pain and movement restrictions. Kinesio-Tape offers the possibility to individually fix and immobilize the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb in case of pain. Tape can be used to stabilize joint structures or muscles in case of injuries and diseases.

If you have no experience with Tape, it is recommended to have an experienced physiotherapist show you how to apply Tape. Tape can then be bought and applied at home according to individual needs. Similar to Tape, a bandage is used to fix the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb in various diseases of the thumb and hand.

The goal is to reduce possible painful movements in the affected joint. The bandage is a conservative means of treatment that allows the diseased joint to heal “at rest”. By preventing painful movements, the pain of some patients can be effectively relieved.

Homeopathy can – depending on the cause and in addition to conventional medical treatment – support the relief of pain in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb. Normally 5 globules are taken three times a day. For example, if pain is caused by arthritic changes, Acidum formicicum or Harpagophythum can be taken.

For chronic pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, Luesinum and Tuberculinum residuum are recommended. If the cause of the pain in the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb is a torn ligament or a contusion, Symphytum is used. In case of an acute attack of gout caused by overexertion, Arncica should be taken. If the gout attack is due to the consumption of too much meat or alcohol, nux vomica is prescribed. The homeopathic remedies should be taken according to the recommended dosage and potency.