I've had trigger thumb a few times. It is inflammation in the soft tissue around joints. Not a joint problem per se.
First time I got it was after carpal tunnel surgery on both wrists. Second day of healing, both my thumbs triggered. Surgeon said was a common reaction after that surgery. Had steroid shots in both and they were fixed - poof!
Second time was out of the blue. But then I was referred to a great physiotherapist who showed me how to exercise, ice, etc. myself, so when it is just a hint of pain & stiffness, I can usually stop it from getting worse. I also have splints that I wear when doing heavy hand work, repetitive stuff.
Couple of other times, I've had steroid shots in my hands. My general feel is that they work when you get them. Avoiding having to get them is better (who wants more pain anyway?
So maybe getting a physiotherapy consult would give you these tools, especially if it becomes a more chronic thing.
Hope this helps,
Wishing you peace and comfort,
Paddy
