Weak Thumbs?

Question

Over the past two years I've noticed a steady decline in the strength in both my thumbs, particularly in my left. I play guitar so this is especially as frustrating, because when I play barre chords (they require pressure from the thumb by pushing on the back of the fret board), I can only do it for a short period of time before I have to bow out due to the pain. Lately I've noticed even regular notes are hurting my thumb, which do not require much strength at all. I've noticed it starts hurting when I'm applying pressure and then releasing constantly.

The pain usually resides in the joint at the very bottom of my thum and palm. The tendons surrounding the joint sometimes hurt too. However, sometimes it feels my thumb itself is hurting as well.

I'm only 20 and I did go and see a doctor and physio and they both acted as if it's all in my head. This is incredibly frustrating as it is pushing me further and further way from enjoying my instrument.

Thanks to anyone who can answer.

Answer 1

it may be some type of cancer so go to your doctor immedeatly!

Answer 2

There are plenty of joint and tendon disorders that are caused by over use of the joints. Examples of this include Tendonitis, Bursitis and Carpal tunnel syndrome. I would suspect it to be something similar. My orthopedic surgeon told me that one of the best medicines he could recommend to me for joint pain,was not a medicine at all! He told me to get a glucosamine-chondroiten supplement from a vitamin store and use it for at least 3 weeks and I would see results. I was really skeptical but, I used it and three weeks later my pain was gone. Try that route, maybe it will help you as much as it did me! Good luck

Answer 3

you've probably got tendinitis in your thumbs from all the repetitive movements. use cold therapy and stretching of your hands. you can go to a physical therapist but he tell you the same thing and show you what exercises and stretches to do.