Finger Pain: Is It Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis? - Internal Medicine

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Finger pain can be a perplexing issue, especially when considering the potential underlying conditions such as Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS). AS is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine but can also involve other joints, including those in the hands and fingers. Your description of sudden pain in the interphalangeal joint of your left thumb, particularly when pressure is applied, raises several considerations.

Firstly, the pain you are experiencing could be due to a variety of reasons. Common causes of finger joint pain include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, or even a previous injury that may have gone unnoticed. In the context of AS, it is important to note that while AS primarily affects the axial skeleton (the spine and pelvis), it can also lead to peripheral arthritis, which may manifest as pain and stiffness in the fingers and toes.

Regarding your question about whether AS can cause pain in all finger joints simultaneously, the answer is that it can vary from person to person. Some individuals with AS may experience pain in multiple joints at once, while others may have pain that is more localized. The inflammatory nature of AS means that flares can occur, leading to increased pain and stiffness in affected joints, but this does not necessarily mean that all joints will be affected at the same time.

In your case, the sudden onset of pain in the thumb joint could also suggest a localized issue such as tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheath), which can occur due to repetitive use or strain. It's also worth considering the possibility of a ganglion cyst or other soft tissue issue that could be causing discomfort.

To better understand the nature of your pain, it would be advisable to consult a healthcare professional, preferably a rheumatologist, who can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your medical history and perform a physical examination. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess for any structural changes in the joint or surrounding tissues.

In the meantime, managing your symptoms may involve rest, ice application, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, if appropriate. Physical therapy may also be beneficial in improving joint function and reducing pain.

In summary, while your finger pain could potentially be related to Ankylosing Spondylitis, it is essential to consider other possible causes as well. A thorough evaluation by a medical professional will help determine the exact cause of your symptoms and guide you toward the most effective treatment options.