Thumb pain

About 2 years ago I was hurt in a softball game where my thumb became bruised and swollen but it seemed to heal on its own after about a week I just did not have full range of motion with it.  About 2 weeks later I was pushing a gear on my bike and my thumb made a popping noise and It felt so much better and I could move it again.  The question is every now and then I hit my thumb just the right way so that there is a sharp pain and the best way to describe it is a hollow feeling.  It then instantly swells and hurts for about 2 days.  Does anyone have any clue what I may have done to it and if going to get xrays will actually be helpful and not just a waste of money.  

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

X-rays will rule out fractures, dislocations, callous formation or any other issues with your phalanges in your thumb.

You will be sure after an X-ray that it is bony involvement or soft tissue problem.

If required wear a splint for couple of weeks for proper healing and follow up with proper physiotherapy to strengthen your thumb.

Take care!