Nearly everyone has had finger injuries during their lifetime. As a result, the fingers can remain a bit crooked or stiff. The hand functions quite well with these minor deformities. Fingers need not open fully or close completely to be functional. Osteoarthritis causes knobby swelling of finger joints and can also cause problems at the base of the thumb. Expect some pain and stiffness. Specific treatment, other than exercise, is not required. Numbness or tingling may indicate a problem with nerves or circulation.
| 
