Illness name: thumb pain
Description:
There are many causes of thumb pain. You can often ease the pain yourself. But see a GP if the pain does not improve.
If you see a GP about pain in your thumb, they'll usually suggest you try these things:
rest your thumb when you can
put an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas) in a towel and place it on your thumb for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
take
paracetamol
take off any jewellery if your thumb looks swollen
stop or cut down activities that are causing the pain – for example, typing, using vibrating tools for work, or playing an instrument
wear a splint to support your thumb and ease pain, especially at night – you can get these at most pharmacies and supermarkets
consider taping something like a lollipop stick to your thumb – this will keep it in place until you can get a splint
consider using gadgets or tools to make difficult or painful tasks easier – for example, to open jars or chop vegetables
keep your thumb moving with gentle exercises
do not use ibuprofen in the first 48 hours after an injury
do not use heat packs or have hot baths for the first 2 to 3 days after an injury
do not lift heavy objects or grip anything too tightly
You can ask a pharmacist about:
These might be signs of a broken thumb.
Thumb pain is often caused by bruising or injuring your thumb.
Your symptoms might also give you an idea of what's causing the pain in your thumb.
Do not worry if you're not sure what the problem is.
Follow the advice on this page and see a GP if the pain does not get better in 2 weeks.
Page last reviewed: 14 March 2022
Thumb pain
How you can ease thumb pain yourself
Do
Don’t
A pharmacist can help with thumb pain
Non-urgent advice:
See a GP if:
Immediate action required:
Go to an urgent treatment centre or A&E if you:
What we mean by severe pain
Common causes of thumb pain
Symptoms
Possible cause
Pain, swelling, bruising after an injury
Sprained thumb
Pain, swelling and stiffness at the base of the thumb that lasts a long time, may be hard to move your thumb, may have a lump
Tendonitis
(de Quervain's disease) or
arthritis
Aching pain that's worse at night, numbness or pins and needles, a weak thumb or difficulty gripping
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Pain or tenderness in your palm at the base of your thumb, stiffness, clicking when you move your finger or thumb
Trigger thumb
Sudden, sharp pain, swelling, a popping or snapping sound during the injury
Broken thumb
Next review due: 14 March 2025