Arthritis?

Hi JackK It could be arthritis. Mine started with excruciating pain in one thumb. What has helped me tremendously is Rhus Tox & Ruta Cream by Helios, available online. I have used this for 6 years and it's wonderful stuff.

It sounds very much like Dupuytren's Contracture to me. You should see a doctor soon because it can be helped with surgery.

I also have similar, same hand and finger. The pain in mine has settled down. I gently try to stretch the fingers. If it is Dupuytren's you may end up with that finger curled up in your hand and it will be difficult to use your hand. Usually 2-3 dingers can become affected. I am also left handed so I am aware of the problem!

Thank you so much for your replies - I'm hoping it's not the latter ... and I'll definitely try the former!

JackK I understand you not wanting to bother your GP. But they are repeatedly reminding us that the NHS is open for “normal” business and urging patients with problems to come forward.

Thank you for the Rhus Tox & Ruta cream Sparklefizz. I've just ordered some for my painful hands.

Aldom My pleasure. I hope you find it as helpful as I have.

Is your hand red at all, JackK? Did this come on fairly quickly or is it a longstanding problem which is getting worse?
If it is recent and you have a red patch which is spreading then it could be cellulitis, which requires a course of antibiotics.

You do need to phone your GP or 101 if so.

No redness Callistemon - so that's a blessing! And I've ordered some Rhus tox cream too, thank you Sparklefiz.
This is my first ever post - a million thanks!

could be something called "trigger finger" (no guns ). it where you use this finger more than others(no rude gestures please) and it goes into a spasm .google it . i get this on my right hand where i use the computer mouse. painful very much..........

Hope it really helps JackK

I've bookmarked that link for future reference, thanks Sparklefizz

Moggie57 thankyou!
A Google search of trigger finger suggests that this is indeed my problem- and it fits that my symptoms have only come on since lockdown - wfh and constant phone scrolling using my middle finger!
It's taking me an age to write this post as I'm now typing with my index finger and resting the middle one!

I have had trigger finger for about 5 years; I have had cortisone injections, but was told I could only have 2, after that it would have to be surgery. I have persevered since my last injection about 4 years ago, but recently the problem has become much worse - I woke up with my finger closed in a claw-like position and it didn't release for over an hour. I have just contacted my doctor and he has referred me to a hospital consultant (all done via email). I presume I will now have surgery. You really should contact your doctor and they will probably suggest an injection - it certainly worked for me, but the effects only lasted for about 6 months, still, better than nothing.

JackK can you order a stylus?

I watch people typing with their thumbs at top speed and wonder how they do that! Using a stylus is slower, but for me at least, does mean fewer 'fat finger' typos.

You're welcome Callistemon

Curleywhirly - you have convinced me to make an appointment!
Callstemon - stylus ... what dat?!!! Please enlighten me!

A stylus looks rather like a slim pen. You use the tip to tap out your message. Look on eBay or similar. They're very cheap.

You can buy ballpoint pens with a rubber tip too.

Thank you!