Athletes who experience thumb pain may find it difficult to compete at their best and may even have to miss games or events. Thumb pain can significantly affect your performance whether you're a weightlifter, a basketball player, a tennis player, or any other kind of athlete. In this post, we'll look at several frequent reasons for thumb discomfort in athletes, as well as management advice and possible solutions. Overuse is one of the leading causes of thumb pain in athletes.
This can happen if you grip objects like a basketball, a tennis racket, or a weightlifting bar repeatedly, which strains your thumb joints. The thumb joint may become inflamed, swollen, and painful over time as a result of this ongoing tension.
What Causes Thumb Pain in Athletes?
A thumb sprain is another typical reason for thumb pain in athletes. This can happen if you fall or impact another player, which will bend or twist your thumb unusually. Mild to severe thumb sprains can result in edema, pain, and trouble moving the thumb. You might need to take some time off from your sport to allow your thumb to recover, depending on how severe the sprain is. In some circumstances, athletes may also feel discomfort in their thumbs due to a fracture. One of the bones of your thumb may shatter as a result of a fall or collision with a hard surface. Fractures can be very painful and may need to be treated by a doctor as well as a cast or splint to heal properly.
What Can Athletes Do When They Experience Thumb Pain?
Resting your thumb and letting it heal are two of the finest things you can do if your thumb discomfort is brought on by overuse. Depending on how bad your discomfort is, this can include taking a few days or even a few weeks off from your sport. Rest is important, but you may also benefit from icing your thumb to minimize swelling, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy exercises to strengthen and stretch your thumb. To recover and restore your complete range of motion after a thumb sprain, it's critical to adhere to a sound rehabilitation regimen.
SummaTape™: Benefits of CBD and Kinesiology Tape for Thumb Pain
As an athlete, thumb pain can be a real hindrance to your performance. Whether it's due to overuse, a sprain, or a fracture, thumb pain can limit your mobility, strength, and ability to participate in the sport you love. Luckily, there are natural and effective ways to help relieve your thumb pain, such as using CBD and kinesiology tape. CBD (cannabidiol), which is present in hemp plants, has gained popularity due to its potential to reduce discomfort and inflammation.
The endocannabinoid system in the body, which aids in controlling different biological functions like pain, mood, and sleep, interacts with CBD to produce its therapeutic effects.
CBD is a great alternative for athletes who experience thumb discomfort because it may be ingested or administered topically to reduce inflammation and soothe the thumb joint.
Stretches to Help Prevent Thumb Pain
Thumb pain can be caused by a number of factors, including overuse, arthritis, or injury. Pain and stiffness in your thumb can make it difficult to perform everyday activities such as gripping objects or using a keyboard. Stretching exercises can help alleviate pain and improve flexibility in your thumb.
- Thumb Extension Stretch
The thumb extension stretch targets the muscles at the base of your thumb and can help alleviate pain caused by arthritis or overuse. To do this stretch, start with your hand relaxed at your side. Gently move your thumb away from your hand and hold for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat this stretch 3-5 times, then switch to the other hand.
- Thumb Flexion Stretch
The thumb flexion stretch targets the muscles on the palm side of your thumb and can help improve flexibility in your thumb joint. To do this stretch, start with your hand relaxed at your side. Gently move your thumb towards your palm and hold for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat this stretch 3-5 times, then switch to the other hand.
- Thumb Circles Stretch
The thumb circles stretch targets the muscles and tendons in your thumb and can help improve flexibility and relieve tension. To do this stretch, start with your hand relaxed at your side. Make a circular motion with your thumb, moving it in a clockwise direction for 15-30 seconds, then switch to a counterclockwise direction. Repeat this stretch 3-5 times, then switch to the other hand.
- Grip Strengthening Exercise
The grip strengthening exercise targets the muscles in your hand and can help improve overall strength and reduce pain in your thumb. To do this exercise, hold a soft ball or rolled-up towel in the palm of your hand. Squeeze the ball or towel as tightly as you can, then release. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times, then switch to the other hand.
- Finger Stretch
The finger stretch targets the muscles in your hand and can help improve flexibility and reduce pain in your thumb. To do this stretch, start with your hand relaxed at your side. Gently pull each finger back towards your wrist and hold for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat this stretch 3-5 times on each hand.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating these stretching exercises into your daily routine can help improve flexibility and reduce pain in your thumb. However, if you are experiencing severe pain or swelling, be sure to consult with a doctor or physical therapist before beginning any new exercise program.
