Best Home Treatment Options For Arthritis of The Thumb

Arthritis is a common disease afflicting thousands of people worldwide. Hundreds of people of various ages and races suffer from it. Arthritis means inflammation of the joint. There are many different forms of arthritis, with arthritis of the thumb being one. 

In arthritis of the thumb, the cartilage layer which covers the ends of the bones and acts as a self absorber wears out, resulting in a direct contact between the bones and thus causing deformity and pain. It is most commonly seen in women over the age of forty. The exact reason for it is not known, but genetics, previous injuries such as fractures, or generalized joint laxity may incline women towards developing this kind of arthritis. The common symptoms include redness, pain, swelling and stiffness of the thumb. 

Certain self-care actions can help mitigate pain, improve mobility and finally increase your independence. Here are some of the best treatment options for arthritis in the thumb: 

Thumb Circles 

Carry out hand exercises that move your thumb through its full range of motion. You can try out the ‘thumb circle’ exercise. Make a gentle fist, keeping your thumb free and then rotate your thumb first clockwise and then anti clockwise slowly for about two minutes. Perform this exercise several times in a day. This will help in improving your joint's mobility. 

Squeezing a Ball 

Squeeze a soft rubber ball. Practice squeezing with all your fingers, and then indent the ball gently with the thumb for about twenty to thirty seconds. 

Paraffin Hot Wax 

Try a paraffin hot wax on your hands and thumbs. The hot wax transfers heat to the bones, thereby improving circulation. 

Hot or Cold Therapy 

For dull aches, apply a warm towel over your thumb or dip your hands in warm water mixed with Epsom salt. For burning pain, apply ice to lessen inflammation. Freeze water in a small cup and massage your hands, specially your thumbs. 

Potato Juice 

Make a juice by combining potato extract and water. Drink this every morning. This will give you relief from pain and reduce inflammation in the thumb joints. 

Mustard Oil and Garlic 

Combine garlic and mustard oil together to form oil. Apply the oil on the thumb area, three to four times in a day to get quick relief from pain and soreness. 

Drink Water Every Morning 

Drink a glass of water every day in the morning to ease bowel movement and treat arthritis. 

Mustard Oil and Camphor 

Apply a mixture of mustard oil and camphor on the affected area. This is also known to give immense relief from thumb arthritis. 

Take a Healthy Diet 

Include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet, so that your entire body gets essential vitamins and minerals. Intake of healthy food will help in providing calcium to your body and your thumb joints, hence helping you to strengthening the joint area and improve its conditions. 

In the end, if these simple home techniques do not work, consult your physician who can give you medications and other treatment options.