How can I treat tendinitis in my thumb?

I have tendinitis in my thumb as a result of texting. I have been to the doctors, but he just said "rest it and come back if it get any worse" - very helpful! Has anyone had the same form of tendinitis, and do you have any tips on how I can treat it myself?

It goes without saying - I've changed my method of texting!

use different fingers

As with tendinitis of any joint, there is really only one cure, rest. Sometimes it can be very hard to not use the joint that is inflamed but it really is the only thing that will make the pain go away. Tendinitis in the hand can be particularly hard to get rid of because we use our hands for everything. It'll heal a little and then you'll put pressure on the tendon again, and you're right back where you started from. I did have tendinitis in my index finger so I taped it to the fingers on either side so I couldn't bend it and the problem went away after a couple of weeks. Taping your thumb down might be hard to do, but it might be worth if it you can find a way to do it.

Dear friend
Please do the following. Before retiring to bed every night put your hand with the affected thumb into warm water with a little table salt into it. Open and close your fist alternately under water till the water remains warm. Then wipe your hand and apply a cream of a potent steroid like Betamethasone with antibiotic like Gentamycin. Cover your hand with a polythene bag like a small carry bag and go to sleep. Next morning remove the bag and wash your hand and do your daily works. Keep on doing it for one to two months at a stretch. I hope it will help you . If you find it is itching or getting worse by increase in pain etc. stop it; it will not suit you. This is a mere suggestion; I shall be very happy if it works but I should not be held responsible if it does not work or does not suit you.