Hello, Based on your description, the most likely cause is a mild tendon-related condition such as trigger thumb (stenosing tenosynovitis), where the tendon moving the thumb becomes irritated and does not glide smoothly, causing clicking, popping, or a sensation of sticking. Repetitive gripping activities, including weightlifting, can contribute to these symptoms. If the pain is mild and there is no significant swelling, weakness, numbness, or locking of the thumb, it is generally safe to continue exercising. However, I would recommend modifying activities that place excessive stress on the thumb, particularly heavy gripping exercises. Consider reducing the weight used temporarily and stopping any exercise that clearly worsens the pain.
You may also benefit from: • Resting the thumb from aggravating activities when possible. • Applying ice for 10–15 minutes after exercise. • Gentle thumb stretching and range-of-motion exercises. • Using a thumb support brace during activities if symptoms are frequent.
If the clicking becomes more frequent, the thumb starts locking, pain increases, or symptoms persist for several weeks despite activity modification, you should consult an orthopedic or hand specialist for examination.
Final Prescription/Advice: • Continue gym activities as tolerated, but avoid exercises that increase thumb pain or clicking. • Reduce heavy gripping and repetitive thumb-loading activities for 1–2 weeks. • Apply ice locally for 10–15 minutes after workouts. • Consider a thumb support splint if symptoms occur frequently. • Seek orthopedic evaluation if pain worsens, locking develops, grip strength decreases, or symptoms persist.
Feel free to reach out again.
Regards, Dr. Nirav Jain MBBS, D.Fam.Medicine
Hi dear,
👍 Popping thumbs + pain with writing/typing/gym = Trigger Thumb (stenosing tenosynovitis) Both thumbs affected, 1–6 months, moderate pain, frequent clicking. Even your non-writing thumb hurts → suggests bilateral overuse (gym, typing, gripping) or an underlying condition (thyroid/diabetes).
🏋️ Can you keep exercising? ✅ Yes – but modify now to avoid surgery later:
· Use neutral grip (thumb next to fingers) or lifting straps · No thumb-wrap grip for bench press, pull-ups, rows · Push-ups on fists or push-up bars · Avoid prolonged pinching (farmer’s carry, deadlifts with pinch grip)
✍️ For writing/typing:
· Use a gel pen or soft grip to reduce pressure · Take breaks every 15 min, stretch fingers gently (not thumb alone) · Try voice-to-text for long sessions
🩺 Should you see a doctor? Yes – soon. Bilateral trigger thumb lasting >1 month with moderate pain may need:
· Steroid injection (80% cure rate, works for months/years) · Blood tests (HbA1c, TSH) – diabetes or hypothyroidism can cause bilateral trigger digits
🩹 What to do today:
· Thumb spica splint at night (stops overnight clicking) · Ice massage at thumb base for 10 min after gym/writing · NSAIDs (ibuprofen) for 5 days if no contraindication · Stop forceful thumb stretching – makes it worse
⚠️ Ignoring it = thumb may start locking (stuck bent) → then needs surgery.
— Dr Nikhil Chauhan Pop, pain, both sides – don’t wait till they lock. One injection can save your grip.
Hello dear See as per clinical history it seems presence of Minor sprain due to ligament injury Differential diagnosis includes Tendonitis Minor fracture Iam suggesting some medication and precautions for improvement Please follow them for atleast a week Diclofenac sodium gel topical application twice a day for 15 days Voveron xr 50 mg twice a day for 5 days Hot fomentation application twice a day for 5 days Crave bandage application twice a day for 5 days In addition please get following tests done for confirmation of exact diagnosis and best treatment Please share the result with orthopedic surgeon for better clarity CBC Esr X ray Hand USG Ct scan of recommended by orthopedic surgeon Hopefully you recover soon Regards
Hello
Your symptoms are most consistent with trigger thumb (stenosing tenosynovitis) or irritation of the thumb tendons from repetitive use. The clicking, popping, occasional sticking sensation, mild pain, and tenderness at the base of the thumb are typical features. Writing with a tight grip and certain gym exercises that require strong gripping can contribute to tendon irritation.
Because both thumbs are affected and you also report stiffness and swelling, other possibilities include early inflammatory arthritis or generalized tendon overuse, although these are less likely based on your description.
It is generally safe to continue exercising if the pain remains mild, but try to avoid activities that worsen the symptoms, reduce excessive gripping, and consider temporarily lowering the weight or volume of exercises that strain the thumbs. Using a larger pen grip, avoiding pressing too hard when writing, and taking frequent breaks may also help.
If symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, worsen, or if the thumb begins locking in a bent position, you should see a hand specialist or orthopedic doctor. They may recommend an examination, splinting, anti-inflammatory treatment, or imaging if needed.
Seek earlier evaluation if you develop significant swelling, warmth, marked morning stiffness, weakness, numbness, or involvement of multiple other joints. Based on your description, a tendon-related condition such as trigger thumb is a likely explanation.
Take care Feel free to talk again
Hello What you’re describing—thumb getting “stuck” with a popping or clicking sound, mild pain around the joint and base—sounds most like trigger thumb (a type of tendon irritation), or possibly early thumb joint arthritis. This is common in people who do repetitive gripping, writing, or gym activities.
If your pain is mild and not worsening, it’s generally safe to continue exercising, but try to avoid activities that put a lot of pressure on your thumb (like heavy gripping or push-ups) for now. Use padded grips, take breaks, and try to rest your thumb when possible.
If the pain gets worse, your thumb locks and can’t be straightened, or you notice swelling or loss of function, it’s best to see a doctor (orthopaedic or hand specialist) for a check-up. If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks despite rest, get it checked.
Rx- Oint Diclofenac gel Tab Zerodol sp - once a day Sachet vit d3 - once a week
Thank you
Continuing to exercise with a clicking thumb joint and mild pain can potentially make the condition worse, so it may be prudent to pause or modify activities that exacerbate the pain. The symptoms you’re describing could be consistent with something known as “trigger thumb” or another kind of tendinopathy, where the tendons that control thumb movements become inflamed or strained. It’s important to avoid any repetitions or gripping motions at the gym that may put additional stress on your thumb. Rest and reducing strain could help reduce inflammation and provide some relief. Applying a cold compress after activities that cause discomfort might help reduce pain and swelling, and using an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication can also be considered, but ensure you check it’s appropriate for you. Consider wearing a thumb splint to immobilize the joint, especially during activities that you cannot avoid or that seem to worsen the clicking and pain. However, given the persistence of your symptoms, it’s advisable to see a healthcare professional. They can perform a physical examination and potentially order imaging like an ultrasound or X-ray to rule out any structural issues such as degenerative joint changes or damage to the thumb’s tendons or ligaments. A doctor might suggest specific exercises to improve strength and flexibility once any inflammation has reduced. You may also be referred for physical therapy if indicated, which can be beneficial in managing thumb-related issues through targeted exercises and modalities.
Your symptoms could be due to trigger thumb or a mild tendon irritation from repetitive gripping activities such as weightlifting. It is usually safe to continue exercising if the pain is mild, but avoid exercises that worsen the clicking, sticking, or pain and consider reducing heavy gripping for a short period.
Since the symptoms have persisted and involve a popping sensation, it would be a good idea to have your thumb evaluated by an Orthopedic Surgeon or hand specialist, especially if the thumb starts locking, the pain worsens, or your grip strength decreases.
Your symptoms are consistent with trigger thumb or a tendon irritation/overuse injury, which can cause clicking, popping, mild pain, and a feeling that the thumb briefly gets stuck. You can usually continue exercising if the pain is mild, but avoid movements that aggravate the thumb, especially heavy gripping exercises, and consider reducing the load temporarily.
Because the symptoms have been persistent, it would be a good idea to consult an Orthopedic Surgeon or hand specialist for an examination, particularly if the thumb starts locking, the pain increases, or your grip strength becomes affected.
Your symptoms are consistent with trigger thumb or a tendon irritation/overuse injury, which can cause clicking, popping, mild pain, and a feeling that the thumb briefly gets stuck. You can usually continue exercising if the pain is mild, but avoid movements that aggravate the thumb, especially heavy gripping exercises, and consider reducing the load temporarily.
Because the symptoms have been persistent, it would be a good idea to consult an Orthopedic Surgeon or hand specialist for an examination, particularly if the thumb starts locking, the pain increases, or your grip strength becomes affected.
