I have no mobility in my thumbs. I don?t know if it?s carpal tunnel or badal thumb arthritis? I need a diagnosis and x-ray blood tests neurological tests etc to determine the underlying issues.

Dr. Sirish PhysiotherapistPhysiotherapist17yrs exp

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It sounds like you're experiencing limited mobility in your thumbs and are unsure about the underlying cause, whether it's related to carpal tunnel syndrome or basal thumb arthritis. Here's what you can consider in terms of diagnosis and testing: medical evaluation: schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, preferably a hand specialist or orthopedic surgeon, who can assess your symptoms and perform a thorough physical examination of your thumbs and hands. They will ask about your medical history, including any previous injuries or conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms. Diagnostic tests: based on your symptoms and physical examination, your healthcare provider may recommend one or more diagnostic tests to further evaluate your condition. These tests may include: x-rays: x-rays can help identify any abnormalities or degenerative changes in the bones of the thumb joint, which can indicate basal thumb arthritis. Blood tests: blood tests may be ordered to rule out underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory disorders that can affect the joints. Nerve conduction studies: nerve conduction studies can help assess nerve function and determine if there is any evidence of nerve compression or damage, which is characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome. Electromyography (emg): emg testing may be recommended to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles and detect any abnormalities associated with nerve compression or damage. Imaging studies: in addition to x-rays, other imaging studies such as ultrasound or mri may be ordered to provide detailed images of the soft tissues, including the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, to help assess the extent of joint damage or inflammation. Physical examination: your healthcare provider will also perform a physical examination of your thumbs and hands, assessing for signs of inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. They may also perform specific tests to assess thumb function and mobility. Comprehensive assessment: based on the results of these tests and examinations, your healthcare provider can provide a comprehensive assessment and diagnosis of your condition. They will discuss treatment options tailored to your specific needs, which may include conservative measures such as splinting, physical therapy, or medications for pain and inflammation, as well as surgical options if necessary.  

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