Occasional thumb twitching is a fairly common occurrence, especially considering how much we use our thumbs to text and type. Known as fasciculation, these small, involuntary muscle spasms or contractions are also typically harmless. Of course, if your thumb twitching becomes painful, persistent or makes it hard for you to perform daily tasks, you may be wondering what you can do to stop it.
Depending on the cause of your thumb twitching, you may be able to find relief by simply massaging your hand, staying hydrated, and reducing your stimulant intake. However, if these strategies fail to work, physical therapy may be able to help.
Causes of Thumb Twitching
Thumb twitching has multiple causes. Often, there is no clear cause, and it resolves on its own within a few days. Some common causes include muscle fatigue, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, vitamin deficiencies, stress, anxiety, lack of sleep or excess caffeine consumption. In rare cases, thumb twitching may be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as a cyst, carpal tunnel syndrome, or a neurological disorder.
- Muscle fatigue
- Lack of sleep
- Dehydration
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Magnesium or calcium deficiencies
- Stress and anxiety
- Excess caffeine or stimulant consumption
- Nerve compression or damage
- Neurological disorders
Physical Therapy for Thumb Twitching
Physical therapy is a common approach to address thumb twitching, particularly when it’s related to overuse, muscle fatigue, or repetitive strain injuries. Physical therapy can help alleviate pain, improve hand function, and reduce the frequency and severity of thumb twitching.
Assessment & Diagnosis
Our physical therapists will assess your symptoms, including when and how often you experience the thumb twitching, and if certain activities make it worse. We may also ask about numbness, tingling or weakness in your hands. We’ll determine the cause of your thumb twitching and develop a personalized treatment plan to help ease muscle strain and teach you how to properly use your hand for tasks.
Treatment Options
Our physical therapists may recommend exercises, such as thumb extensions, thumb flexion and wrist exercises to strengthen and improve the range of motion in the thumb and hand. We may also use healing modalities, including ice and heat, laser therapy, deep tissue and manual therapy, and dry needling to get deep into the muscle to stop spasming. In some cases, a thumb brace or anti-inflammatory medication may be recommended in conjunction with physical therapy.
Physical Therapy for Thumb Twitching in Queensbury, Saratoga & Malta, NY
Capital Area Physical Therapy treats a variety of conditions involving the hand and wrist, including thumb twitching, carpal tunnel and trigger finger. If you’re experiencing thumb twitching or other hand and wrist ailments, our physical therapists can assess your symptoms, determine the cause, and develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate pain and improve hand function.
To make an appointment with our physical therapists in Malta, Queensbury, Saratoga Springs and Delmar, please give us a call at (518) 289-5242.
