Other signs and symptoms might include: Swelling, stiffness and tenderness at the base of your thumb. Aim to do this 2 to 3 times a day.Īs you do more stretching you should feel your range of movement improve and you’ll be able to stretch further. Pain can occur at the base of your thumb when you grip, grasp or pinch an object, or use your thumb to apply force. For example, do 2 to 3 sets of stretches. You should try to hold stretches for 20 to 30 seconds if possible. When doing the exercise you should be able to feel a gentle stretch. Over time this can help to improve your range of movement. The aim of a stretch is to hold a position for a longer period of time. You should aim for a maximum of 2 sets of 15.

Over time you can try to increase the number of repetitions you do. This means you could do more repetitions at a time but you'll do them less often throughout the day. For example, practise your repetitions every hour.Īs this gets easier, and if you feel able to, add 1 or 2 repetitions to your movements every few days.Īs you become able to do more repetitions, it can be helpful to break things up into sets. It’s better to do small amounts throughout the day. Carpal tunnel syndrome: This common condition causes pain, numbness, tingling or weakness in the hand or wrist. Complex networks of nerves, muscles, tendons, and ligaments allow the knuckles to move, giving rise to precise finger movements, such as typing, holding utensils, and scratching the head. When starting new exercises, it can be helpful to do 2 to 3 repetitions at a time. Sometimes a splint may be needed as well. You may need some hand therapy with an occupational therapist. It is possible that your body cannot tolerate your current level of activity. Repetitions are how often you do a single movement. See below: You might have to cut back on the amount of texting and typing that you do. You should add exercises into your routine gradually to help your wrist, hand or finger pain.

Thumb pain typing