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If you are a patient and would like information about
your situation please submit your question. Personal information is kept confidential.
| Question: After hitting a heavy bag for sometime with boxing gloves I get soreness in only my middle fingers. I also wrap my hands. The soreness is only between my first and second knuckle on both ring fingers. It hurts a little to close my hands into fists and it is quite painful if I push/squeeze them. I'm thinking it's either from the impact or from clinching my hands inside the gloves. Probably the latter due to the concentrated area of pain. |
| 10/10/2008 - |
| Response: You should have it evaluated before the problem gets bigger. |
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| Question: how do i cure a sprained pinky finger |
| 10/8/2008 - luis |
| Response: depends on what is actually damaged |
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| Question: Both of my elbows hurt so bad there are times a can't lean on them at all. What could this be?? |
| 10/7/2008 - Heather |
| Response: I would have to take a detailed look as this can be related to SO many things. |
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Question: For a couple of months now on both hands in between my pointer finger and thumb they get this sharp pain. It hurts to do anything... Wash dishes, brush my hair, hold anything for a long time.. etc.. Could this be artritis? Please help
Thank You! |
| 10/7/2008 - Heather |
| Response: It could be related to arthritis in the thumb joint but it could be something else. It is worth getting an evaluation on it to be sure. |
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Question: Hello,
My son has been suffering with chronic pain in his right hand which frequently shoots up into the elbow and shoulder area with overuse. He has a noticeable and painful swelling on the upper hand just below and between the 2nd and 3rd fingers. It became so intense he had to switch to the left hand which is now also experiencing the same type of pain and an identical lump, though the lump is half the size of the one on the right hand. He has just received his BS in Computer Science but can't work because of the disabling pain. He really pushed himself to complete his degree and hopefully this did not cause permanent damage. He has had this condition for over a year. He has seen multiple doctors who give him vast quantities of NSAIDs none of which even touch the pain. He has had Xrays which show normal bones and has been tested for RA which has come back negative. He can't sleep, has lost alot of weight and is becoming severely depressed. I am frankly terrified at watching my intelligent, and once-vibrant son pretty much wasting away because of the relentless pain and no real medical intervention. The RA doctor has offered to give him a shot of cortisone but is this wise since no one knows what the lump is? Could it do damage? I'm fearful of his health as well as how he is going to be able to support himself since he can't do what he is educated to do. He can no longer play his guitar either, which has further added to the depression. They have not referred him to a hand specialist and I am so fed up with his insurance (HMO) which is dragging it's feet so incredibly slowly. He is getting no help. Can you give any advice at all and can you recommend a good hand specialist in the San Diego area? I am at my wits end and can only imagine the dispair my son is experiencing. |
| 10/6/2008 - Kassie |
| Response: You can go to assh.org and find a local hand surgeon. Click on the link on left side of page that says: Find a Hand Surgeon. That would be a great place to start. A hand surgeon may order an MRI or something more sensitive to detect what is causing this lump. |
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| Question: I've been a professional drummer for 20 years. Last week I had a partial traumatic amputation of my middle finger (to the first knuckle). I am wondering if I will be able to play again.. I'm also involved in sports, but the drumming is the biggest concern to me.. The middle finger is so essential to drumming.. |
| 10/5/2008 - Rebecca |
| Response: It may not affect your drumming at all but if it does you will need to learn a modified hold for your sticks. |
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| Question: I am unable to lift even 2 kgs of weight by stretching the hand. |
| 10/4/2008 - Mallikarjun |
| Response: You could have a multitiude of problems. Start by visiting your primary care dr. |
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| Question: I had a bicep tendon repair.I was told that the staples were attached off to one side and my radial nerve was cut and not reaatached during surgery...I now cannot turn my hand palm up at all and when forced there is pain..is this a normal result of surgery? |
| 10/3/2008 - Donald |
| Response: It is a possibility for sure with surgery. Normal? Not sure. Did you ask the Dr. if it was? I would start by asking him/her what to expect due to the cut nerve. |
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| Question: I had CMC arthroplasty 5 weeks ago. The first 2 weeks were good, very little pain and then I went into a cast. Now I'm in a neoprene splint and the skin is so sensitive plus it aches. Is this normal? I know the doctor said that it takes a total year to recover completely, I guess I thought I would be different. |
| 10/2/2008 - Patty |
| Response: Patty this procedure does have a long recovery. Are you receiving hand therapy yet? If not you should request this as it will help dramatically with the pain and sensitivity. |
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| Question: I have had a problem with my right hand middle finger for a few years its at the tip on the side of the nail its not a continual pain but if i hit it when doing something the pain is ridiculous i have been to a doctor and he suggested its something to do with the nerve ends if so is there any solutions for this |
| 10/2/2008 - |
| Response: Sometimes therapy can help but if not and it is bad enough surgical intervention is warranted. |
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Question: I injected myself with winstrol in my tricep,and hit the nerve,I have had no use of my hand now for 10 weeks,
the top part pf my forearm is not working so I can not lift my hand.My question is have you heard of similiar injuries and will I ever get the return of my hand or what is the likly hood of it returning |
| 10/1/2008 - james |
| Response: You need seek medical attention. |
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| Question: i have pin and neddles in my pinky what causes it i have it for 3 weeks |
| 9/28/2008 - larua |
| Response: It might be a problem in your hand or could be an issue all the way up your neck. You will need to see a dr. to determine why it is occuring. |
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| Question: Is there any cure or treatment for preisser's disease? I'v had the situation since I was 19 years old and I am now 62 and it is becoming extremely painful. I would like to have some information on this condition. |
| 9/28/2008 - dean palmer |
| Response: Surgery can be done. It however, is a complicated surgery and not always a success. I would get 2-3 consults before doing the surgery. |
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| Question: I have numbness on the tip of my pointer finger that leads past my thumb to my wrist. It started with muscle spasum in my upper arm for a week or so then that subsided , but the numbness in my pointer finger tip stayed and the numbness along side of my hand by my thumb .I'm a artist and I am 52 years old and over wieght |
| 9/25/2008 - |
| Response: I wish I could wave a want your direction and fix this. I will tell you if this is going on as you say it has been it is worth a visit to a hand specialist to check it out and see what is going on. |
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| Question: The orthopedic specialist gave me a steroidal shot above my shoulder blade more toward the top of my rt shoulder it has crystals which oll atound initially it was to calm the ulner herve in which i had a rt hand and arm injury leaving my rt pinky and ring finger totally numb . to take the irritation down and go by work comp rules he treated first steps first since the shot 3 days after my left pinky and ring finger are numb thereis more pain now in both areas , headaches etc. could the orthopedic possibly have hit the nerve and did more damage? he is a wonderful person and trying to help and i know it was with no guarentee to be accurate but its going on 1 month now of no relief and wc is working so slow. can u get bk to me soon on this? ty so much. |
| 9/24/2008 - |
| Response: If you are concerned about nerve damage you should get a second opinion. That is what I would do. W/C will allow another opinion. |
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| Question: I cut and broke my middle left finger amost one year ago.I still have not regained all my motion back on three of my fingers.I went to physical therapy for 4 months,I have 3 shots in my neck by a pain mangement doctor(real fun).I have went to two hand doctors but still have only 75% movement.I am just about to give up on it.Any help i would appreciate. |
| 9/23/2008 - JIM |
| Response: Are you seeing a pain specialist and a qualified hand therapist? It is critical to see the right clinicians. |
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| Question: i had rt cmc thumb arthroplasy (4)mo ago and still having having lost of difficulty, can't open door, can't open jars, can swip or mop,the feeling on my thumb is like sprain?? very worry, i'm verly limited, please advise |
| 9/23/2008 - marisol jamerson |
| Response: CMC arthroplasties do have a long recovery time. I tell patients to expect 6 months recovery. I am not sure yours is going to be better by then but very often they are. |
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| Question: My son injured his right ring finger in an accident- the inside lead was severed and the tip of the ligament over the knuckle was also cut off. Stitches have been removed and we would like to consider a in-home O/T program to increase mobility for extending and grasping. Can you make a suggestion? |
| 9/23/2008 - Joan |
| Response: I would suggest whoever does your therapy have an excellent backround in hand rehab and not general therapy. These injuries can be poorly managed and end up with an awful outcome. |
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| Question: For the past two years I occasionally get an EXTREMELY sharp, painful feeling in my right pointer finger. Sometimes its just super sharp pain in my finger and sometimes a second after I feel the pain in my finger there is a sharp pulsating feeling on the rt side of my neck. I have never had a hand injury. What in the world is this? Thanks! |
| 9/22/2008 - |
| Response: It could be a multitude of things. I would seek medical attention as soon as possible. |
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| Question: i broke my little finger 4 wks ago,now its swelling is there something wrong? |
| 9/22/2008 - leslie chandler |
| Response: Swelling is a normal part of healing but you want to control it with edema management techniques. |
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| Question: thank you for your timely response to my question re staph infection after finger surgery. what do you belive my chances are of improved ROM if i stick with intensive PT for six months. my surgeon is reluctant to consider tenolys after already doing surgery and infection drainage. i am just looking for some reason for optimism |
| 9/22/2008 - randy |
| Response: Sometimes it works and others time it doesn't. Make sure you are seeing a competant hand therapist! |
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| Question: I recently had surgery on my left elbow to relieve numbness in my little finger and ring finger and remove scar tissue from a previous surgery. After surgery my arm was put into a splint and ace bandage that I felt it was too tight. After 24 hrs, my hand went from purple to turning black. I keep my hand and arm iced and elevated. The swelling has gone down some but I still do not have feeling in my fingers. When touched, my hand hurts. Are my fingers and hand permanently ruined? |
| 9/21/2008 - s |
| Response: I don’t know if it is permanent but you do want to be seen immediatley by a hand specialist. |
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| Question: 8 months ago i injured my pinky finger playing basketball. a pseudo-boutoniere contraction developed. PT/splinting did not solve the problem. Surgery to release was done 6 weeks ago. Then staph infection from the pin was discovered. drainage was performed 2 times. now 6 weeks after original surgery i have very little ROM. I am doing PT with a hand therapist but am told tendon gliding is not sufficient at this point. am i being impatient. what are your thoughts? |
| 9/21/2008 - Randy |
| Response: Sometimes secondary surgery is needed to release tendons that adhere due to scar tissue from not moving (this occurs with infections). If therapy is at a stalemate for 6 mths or longer a tenolysis might be considered. |
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| Question: I smashed, puncherd & dislocated my small finger on my right hand .The injury was caused buy a forklift pinnig my hand in to a huge toolbox . The workmans comp doc put in 8 stiches that were in for 13 days .When she removed the stiches the tip of my finger pulled back and started to bleed alot . The doctor said that this is normal and gave me a band aid .If this is normal why cant i sleep lieing down (it throbs all night) or why i cant bend my finger ? 15 days later and i still have pain going from my hand all the way in to my arm pit and it still bleeds .What do you think? let me know .....thanks Rick |
| 9/21/2008 - rick Schmidt |
| Response: I think seeing a hand specialist might be a good idea to see what is going on. |
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| Question: please can u help..i have had surgery about 3 months ago on my right thumb i had a fusion of my cmc joint and before that i have had the trapizum removed for the last few weeks it has been fine. now it has become very painful and keeps cramping up. i spoke to my consultant and he said to give it more time but its more painful now than it ever was before having it done. |
| 9/20/2008 - elizabeth davies |
| Response: that procedure is very painful for the first six months post surgery. It should begin to feel better soon. Please see a good hand therapist to help with your pain. |
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| Question: I am in need of a hand therapist. I recently had hand surgery but the therapist my surgeon has recommended is in North Tampa. I play guitar and have not been able to play without my index finger. Do you offer hand therapy for someone with Blue Cross Health Options or would you know of someone in the St. Pete or Clearwater area? |
| 9/19/2008 - Chelsea Beaird |
| Response: Try one of the following: Next Step Rehab - Debbie Kiag, Vicki Darlington at the Sports Medicine Dr.'s office on 66th St., Hand Inc. is Nancy Gianicakes in Clwt., Largo Medical is Lori Kursay, All FL. Ortho is Roxanne Bottum. I am sure one of those therapists takes your insurance and if not they will know who does! |
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| Question: I have pain in my thumb especially when writing and a burning sensation up my arm. I also have a swollen web space between my thumb and forefinger. X-ray's, ultrasound and an MRI have all come back normal, (apart from showing swollen muscle) My ortho consultant has no ideas what this can be - I have had it for nearly 3 years and it's really, really getting me down. Any ideas what i can do now? |
| 9/17/2008 - Gaynor Wall |
| Response: See a hand surgeon not just a ortho doc. They can run more tests and detect the more difficult things to detect. |
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Question: i broke my middle finger by doing a front hand spring how long should i keep my splint on for?
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| 9/15/2008 - brad |
| Response: it depends on many factors. I would ask your dr. |
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| Question: My friend was trying to remove an obstruction to his document shredder using an knife however he slipped thus the knife piecing his hand between his finger and thumb he went to a and e but he was then sent to plastics they told him they need to operate, can you please tell me if thus an complicated procedure and would he have to be anaesthetised he is very scared and said he will call back how important is this operation and could he die, he has been told his tendon has been cut and the may have to cut up to 10 inches up his arm. please can you help. kind regards bernie |
| 9/12/2008 |
| Response: The reason they say that they may have to cut up the arm is that the tendon may have pulled up the arm due to the muscle pulling it. It is a possibility. If he wants the finger to work right he should do the surgery. It is important to seek out an excellent hand surgeon do the surgery. Get a second or third opinion so he is confident with is dr. |
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| Question: I went fourwheeling last week. Since then I have little use of my right index finger. I cannot bring the index to pinkie together normally. Any suggestions |
| 9/6/2008 - Linda |
| Response: see a dr to have it assessed! |
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| Question: I broke a bone in my palm tarsal? of my right ring finger. It has been six weeks, 3 with splint 3 with buddy taping.I now need to work my hand and don't know what to do. I am determined to have my hand back to normal but can't find any direction. |
| 9/6/2008 - |
| Response: it would be best to have a one time consult with a hand therapist to make sure you are heading in the right direction! |
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| Question: my thumb and the lower part below the thumb on my hand had been hit hard now the next day it is numb why? |
| 9/6/2008 - jill |
| Response: you might have damaged a nerve - see a dr. |
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| Question: i had a tendon repair in the index and middle fingr 3 weeks ago started therpy can move very little how can i tell if i broke the tendon repair |
| 9/5/2008 - Craig Simcox |
| Response: The therapist will be able to tell you! Don't test this on your own! |
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| Question: I had a crush injury on my index& middle finger at work,resulting in a 3 hr opperation to have metal screws put into my middle finger and my index finger end stitched back on.The middle finger was very badly crushed ,tendons crushed nails took off both fingers.The problem is i cant bend my middle finger at all at the end knuckle only a bit at the middle one, and my finger end points down.Will this ever straighten up and iam in a lot of pain with this ,sharp shooten pains up my finger .could my finger be rejecting the screws?its very swolling and red ive been told ive got a infection and on tablets for this .Iam getting physio on my index finger i can move this one a bit no physio on my middle finger for some time yet.I got told at least three months of work.Consultant said if i cant straighten the finger end they might fuse it,whats that mean. If thats no good they may well remove it. |
| 9/5/2008 - tony fisher |
| Response: These complicated injuries take a long time to heal but with proper guidance this will be the best you can do. |
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| Question: I had a injury at work with a alzheimer pt. grabbing me from behind at the wrist. this pt. is in the worsdt stages and dsoes not know what she was doing. This pt grabs and twists and pulls once latched. My pinky and ring finger tingled and soon went numb. no pain not then at least. this proceeded into not one minute of it being freee of the numbing and now has radiated up my arm into my neck . i have started to have top of my hand shoot stabbing pain and a little on the forarm and wrist and sometimes thumb as well.. my other problem is i have begun to have numbing in left pinky and ring finger as well with my thumb going numb.There is no pain in left as of yet. My neck hurts often as well..i saw the first doc he put hand splint on then went to orthopedic specialists he says it was concidered a violent act although no ones fault the pt really did a number..He suspects a severed ortorn nerve and for now treating as a nerve compression / sprain strain. my left is now going numb and im scared i have worked 15 years doing what i love. I need help!!!!! please answe soon imm tired and frustrated. ty so much for your time. God Bless |
| 9/4/2008 - ann |
| Response: You might benefit from seeing a hand and upper extremity specialist to help you. |
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| Question: i crushed my hand between the top of the forklift and the top of a doorway as i drove through. i did not break any bones but it blew open my pinky and completely ripped out the pinky nail requiring 9 stitches. my ring finger and the middle finger were also smashed at the first digit almost losing those nails as well.however my middle finger at the first diggit droops down and it will not straighten unless i pull it back then it just droops back forward. what can i do to fix that. |
| 9/2/2008 - iver molver |
| Response: That droop is called a mallet finger and often requires a period of splinting to hold it straight and or surery if that doesn’t fix it. You will need to see a Dr. |
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| Question: I have a clear blister on the side of my thumb that is numb as well as big. Can you tell me what it is? |
| 9/1/2008 - Patty |
| Response: It is worthy of a medical visit! |
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| Question: I accidently sliced deep into my right pinky finger cleanly through from the inside to the bottom middle of the center joint with a super-sharp exacto-knife and from that point up the the tip immediately went numb. The doctor who stitched me up looked inside and said that I missed the tendon but cleanly severed the nerve and artery. So now only the inside tip of the pinky is numb. I play guitar and was able to play with hardly any problem within a week but the tip is still numb. Will I ever regain feeling there? Does a totally severed nerve reconnect? |
| 8/29/2008 - Ted |
| Response: You need to see a hand surgeon as if the nerve was severed completely you will need to have it repaired before you get recovery. |
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| Question: Ok so one day I got mad and I hit my truck well afterwards didnt think anything about and now the knuckle on my pinky finger is swollen. It doesnt want to open it almost feels like the bone is dislocated?What should or can I do to resolve this? |
| 8/25/2008 - Angel |
| Response: You need an x--ray to see if you damaged the bone. A Dr. can see if you hurt your tendon. |
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| Question: my index finger is extrememly sore, can hardly bend it, what is wrong? just started hurting today |
| 8/24/2008 - chichi |
| Response: no idea - could be a million things! |
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| Question: I am 54, 1 month ago my hand & wrist was completely run over by a car in a bike accident. I suffered a 3mm avulsion fracture on base of 5th metacarpal. (No surgery is planned.) I had tenosynovitis in same wrist/hand about 10 years ago and had to change careers as a result. I had the cast/4th & 5th fingers imobilizer removed 3 days ago, was given a wrist splint, and told it's extremely important to work on range of motion, but don't overdue it. My hand is very painful & burning, with swelling and heat and dificult to move without pain. Feels much like carpal tunnel syndrome only entire hand is involved and it is dificult & hurts to form a fist. My hand doc ordered PT for me next week but the doctor wants to see me for 4 to 6 weeks from now. Should I ask for a closer follow up visit with the doc? That seems like a long ways away. I'm very concerned with the progress & future function of my hand. Also, have you seen good outcomes for this type of overall crushing injury? |
| 8/24/2008 - Thomas |
| Response: Once you are seeing a competent hand therapist they will send you back to the dr. early if you are not progressing as well as expected. Make sure you are seeing a hand specialty therapist as this is critical for your success. |
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| Question: I am a 39 yr old dental assistant and I use my right index finger a lot with the dental tools. The past few weeks, my index finger hurts at the knuckle. I can still bend it fine, and the finger tip is fine, the knuckle seems to be a little swollen, hurts the most on the interior side. What could I do to help my finger feel better? I do use this finger a lot with my job. |
| 8/23/2008 - trina |
| Response: If you can modify your hand use you will be best off. Switch fingers or grasp hold and you should have relief. You might also try to build up the tool to make the grasp less intense. |
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| Question: I dislocated my left ring finger 8 weeks ago. I had it in a slpint for a week, I've been in therapy for that long it is still swelled and ca'nt bend it very well. Is it going to get better or will scar tissue keep it from bending all the way? |
| 8/22/2008 - gail |
| Response: it can take months for swelling and motion be regained |
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| Question: I have recently started experiencing a clicking in the palm/wrist area of my right hand. My entire hand and fingers go numb and swell a little every night while sleeping and when I wake, I struggle to close my fingers to make a fist. My tendon/s feel like they are going to rip or break off as they are so tight. I also experience tingling and numbness throught out the day and can only find relief with Aleve. My doctor and I believe the clicking is coming from my pointer finger as my palm/wrist clicks the worst when I bend my pointer. My orthopedic sent me for an EMG. Nothing was found. I have been told I am a mystery patient because my clicking is obvious and can be heard and seen when trying to make a fist or close my fingers. My orthopedic suggested hand therapy to see what the therapist suggests, as he is not sure of where to go with this. He tells me I am the only patient he has ever had with this type of clicking. I have not started my therapy yet. I was wondering if you have any clue as to what might be going on with my hand/wrist. I am afraid to continue on like this for fear I will ruin the hand I write with. My profession is secretarial duties which are becoming harder to perform with my hand/wrist problem. Any information you can offer me would be greatly appreciated. |
| 8/22/2008 - Tracy |
| Response: It could be trigger wrist |
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| Question: I had a fall from stool.my both hands fractured.I was operated on Aug 31st 2008,( colles )my left hand with 'T" plate and right hand with wire.My left hand stishes / loose plaster is opened 10 days back,right hand is in light weight plaster.I would like to ask about exercise ,precautions,limitations after removal of plaster,for my both the hands.I used to practise yoga daily,can I do the same after sometime,please advise |
| 8/22/2008 - |
| Response: Your dr. will let you know when you can practice yoga again. |
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| Question: Almost 3 months ago I came off my motorbike & landed on an outstretched hand, three sets of x-rays one week apart eventually showed an imcomplete fracture of scaphoid. I had it put in a short cast for 5 weeks then x-rayed again, which showed it had almost completed healed, enough for it to be free of that annoying cast. When the old skin came off (ergh), I was surprised to see bruising on the palm side of my hand around the thumb, my consultant said it was probably due to pressure from the cast & I should get flexibility of my wrist back once that got better. Now 2 weeks on, the bruising has gone - with daily physiotherapy exercises I'm regaining wrist flex back and forth and side to side, but there has been absolutely no improvment in being able to turn my palm up, I can turn it no more than vertical - its not pain that's stopping it, it just won't turn. Please advise me of what I should do. |
| 8/22/2008 - Gaynor Seckerson |
| Response: Often times splints are applied to regain motion of this type of loss. Ask the therapist about static progressive or dynamic splinting to increase supination. |
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| Question: My husband recently sustained an injury at work where his right-dominant hand was lacerated resulting in an 80-90% extensor tendon laceration, 75% laceration of extensor pollicis longus and complete laceration of extensor pollicis brevis. He's had surgical repair, had his cast removed last Monday and started therapy today. However, his doc told him he would not regain full ROM. He's in quite a bit of pain, stiff, swollen and sore. How much can he expect to be able to use this thumb? |
| 8/21/2008 - Kristal |
| Response: It varies on each person but you need a good hand therapist to start with. |
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Question: I have begun to have severe pain and stiffness in my pinkie and ring finger and also wrist pain. What is this a symptom of?
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| 8/20/2008 - Patric e |
| Response: This is vague - it could a lot of different things. |
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| Question: A cast(not splint)was put on the pinky finger of dominant hand to treat bony mallet finger. This avid varsity/club volleyball player was advised to refrain from volleyball for up to 8 weeks. Please advise what is the worst thing that can happen by continuing to play volleyball while wearing a cast plus taping the finger. |
| 8/19/2008 - Lisa |
| Response: The worst thing is the finger doesn't heal right and the tip of the finger droops down. |
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| Question: I have been experiencing increasing problems in my right thumb for two years. My surgeon is recommending a CMC fusion - xrays have shown bilateral thumb basal arthritis, sbuluxation and contracted web space. Pain is intermittent and manageable. Grip is not great and opening jars/bottles/doors is a problem but not impossible. I have read about another procedure call excision arthroplasty which does not sound as complex and the recovery is shorter than a fusion. I am 51 years old and in good health otherwise. Do you have any views no the relative merits of one procedure over the other? If I have no procedure at all and rely on pain management is the problem likely to get significantly worse and will later surgery pose additional problems? |
| 8/18/2008 - Susan |
| Response: No rush to the surgery but I am in agreement with you that an excision arthroplasty is a superior procedure to fusion. Most important is to see a surgeon that ONLY does hands and not just a general orthopaedic as they will have the most experience in hand reconstruction. The procedure does have a long recovery time but the outcomes are usually quite good. However, as I said - no benefit on doing surgery early rather than later in this case. Conservative custom splints are very helpful as can be out of the box neoprene splints. |
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Question: My sister recently severed tendons and nerves in three fingers on the palm-side of her dominant hand. The MD repaired. What is the likelihood that she'll regain full use of this hand? She's a secretary and does a lot of keyboarding. Will this affect her ability to return to her job?
Thank you. |
| 8/18/2008 - ELIZABETH |
| Response: She needs to seek early intervention by a qualified hand therapist to assist her with achieving a good outcome. |
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| Question: I cut the outside of of my index finger because my 1st and 2nd joints with scissors about two months ago (I was cutting and the scissors slipped and jammed into my finger). I did not go to a doctor and the cut has since healed with just a minor scar; however, I still can't full bend my finger. Should it be taking this long for fully flexibility to come back? |
| 8/16/2008 - Al |
| Response: It might be due to scar tissue or it could be other issues - it is worth a trip to a dr. to get a referral to hand therapy and get the finger back to full motion earlier rather than later. |
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| Question: I am a 59 year old acoustic guitar player experiencing a problem with my left hand thumb (fretting hand). There seems to be a tiny ball growing along the bone on the side of the thumb that is painful, affecting my playing and probably aggravated by playing. I am trying to work around that area by employing different fretting techniques or angles but I'm wondering what the growth might be and if there is a treatment. Thank you! |
| 8/16/2008 - Jim Klasen |
| Response: could be a ganglion a cyst or something like that - it is worth having a look at by a doc. |
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Question: I severely cut my hand on some broken glass about a year and a half ago between my thumb and index finger traveling into the palm of my hand. I went into hospital and it was operated on and stitched up.
The accident has left a nasty scar that prevents my thumb moving backwards and it is also still very sore and painful. It has left me not being able to swing a tennis racket, go bowling, cycling and even shake peoples hands.
Are there any procedures that I can get to alleviate this?
People think I'm being really unsociable by not greeting them with a good strong handshake :( |
| 8/15/2008 - Duncan Tidd |
| Response: a hand surgeon or plastic surgeon can address this issue without a doubt! |
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| Question: i got bit by a dog and my bone is chiped on my index finger is their any way i can just let it heal with out sugery if so what are short term and long term side effects |
| 8/15/2008 - eric |
| Response: sometimes bone chips do not need surgery but if they are displaced - or out of position surgery is usually required to prevent long term problems |
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| Question: I had surgery on my hand 3 months ago for a fracture. Things are good except when I make a tight fist I feel/see pulling along the scar (it is very annoying/uncomfortable). What can I do to stop/help this? |
| 8/13/2008 - Kathleen |
| Response: scar massage and other scar management techniques are helpful. Silicone scar molds available at any walgreens can also help. |
|
| Question: i broke my pinky finger wore a cast for 4 weeks went to doctor they took the cast off and gave me hand excersises to do but my pinky is still swollen big time is that normal and its hard to make a fist and bend it,i keep thinking its not going to get better, or if i make a fist the bone will rebrake.is it normal for it to be swollen and will it brake if i make a full fist. |
| 8/13/2008 - jeremy |
| Response: swelling is normal but should be managed with coban wraps, massage and other edema techniques you need to visit the therapist again to address the swelling not just the motion. |
|
| Question: I have carpal tunnel in both hands and tennis elbow in both elbows. I'm trying to find out what I can do to strengthen my hands and arms without hurting one or the other worse. I wear braces alot. Espically at night. thank you |
| 8/13/2008 - mary bearfield |
| Response: you must be careful when strengthening with these conditions as that can make them worse. You need to work on relieving the issues first and then begin strengthening. |
|
| Question: I broke my scaphoid in my wrist last summer (13 months ago) in a motorcycle accident. I did not have to get surgery but was in a long arm cast for several months (i also fractured my elbow on the same arm) and then in a short cast and finally in a splint. I have never gotten full mobility from my wrist back. I never went to a PT. I have recently started to work out again and have started to do manual labor around the house and my wrist is killing me. It hurts all the time and i don't have full motion now. I have been pushing it hard even though it hurts thinking that I just need to get it to start moving the way it use to again but I'm afraid I might be hurting it or making it worse. Do you have any advice on what I can do to get my mobility back. I'm 33 and other than this am in good health. It is so frustrating because I feel like I'm an old man. I have no grip and I can't even do little things like open a jar of pickles with my right hand. |
| 8/12/2008 - Tim Thomas |
| Response: you may benefit from seeing therapy for just one or two sessions to see if they can assist you. If you are stiff this far out you might require splints to regain your motion. |
|
| Question: I broke my scaphoid in my wrist last summer (13 months ago) in a motorcycle accident. I did not have to get surgery but was in a long arm cast for several months (i also fractured my elbow on the same arm) and then in a short cast and finally in a splint. I have never gotten full mobility from my wrist back. I never went to a PT. I have recently started to work out again and have started to do manual labor around the house and my wrist is killing me. It hurts all the time and i don't have full motion now. I have been pushing it hard even though it hurts thinking that I just need to get it to start moving the way it use to again but I'm afraid I might be hurting it or making it worse. Do you have any advice on what I can do to get my mobility back. I'm 33 and other than this am in good health. It is so frustrating because I feel like I'm an old man. I have no grip and I can't even do little things like open a jar of pickles with my right hand. |
| 8/11/2008 - Tim Thomas |
| Response: it is possible that you have a ligament tear and you may need to have that looked at as you can make it worse by pushing things. You will need to see a hand specialist to assess this as you general ortho or doc will not usually identify this small ligament injuries. |
|
| Question: i had a ring on my finger for 10 plus years i had it cut off in april 2008 and it has been very sore and it stiffens up at night how can i help heal my finger? |
| 8/9/2008 - bernice |
| Response: why was it cut off? If it was cut off due to tightness you must just have swelling that needs to resolve. Try massage and gentle wrapping to start. |
|
| Question: i took my cast off because it became very irritive to my skin i had a boxer's fracture to my right pinky knuckle the cast suppose to have stayed on at least 10 more days what effects will this have on my broken bone? |
| 8/8/2008 - anthony |
| Response: if you are lucky - nothing! If you are not so lucky the bones move and you will have a poor result! |
|
Question: I am hand therapist.Can we do electrical stimulation in cardiac arrhythmia patients.How do we document if we have to clarify from cardiac surgeon ?
Can you email me ,thanks. |
| 8/7/2008 - maneesha |
| Response: I wouldn't attempt with that patient population but some therapists will. You can ask for medical clearance if you feel that is the only treatment of choice for that patient. |
|
| Question: One night i had just recently gotten out of the shower. I went to grab my shirt and i notices a lightbulb had went out. So i went to take the light bulb out and it poped in my hand! There was heavy bleeding but with pressure it stopped. There was no visible glass in my hand wound so i patched it up and went on (making sure to clean it with peroxide). I never went to the doctor and about a month after the accedint I could not bend my middle finger. I went to a doctor and he said that i should have came in sooner. My appointment for a specielist is not for a while so i was wondering why isnt my finger bending? |
| 8/7/2008 - Jordan |
| Response: Jordon do not beat yourself up about not going in sooner. Many people do not go in sooner. I can't tell you why your finger isn't bending without seeing it but it is good that you are seeing a specialist and he/she will be able to help. You can always tell them to put you on a cancel list in the event an appt. opens up sooner. |
|
| Question: HI! Im 27yr old male, Last year the joints on my hands went unbeleivably painfull and sore,acompanied by sore stiff wrists. it was like this for about 3 weeks,it was painfull to move my hands etc! after 3 weeks it went away but i always get the odd shooting pain up my forearm and slight pain in my fourth knuckle on both hands from time to time. what could it be? thank you! |
| 8/7/2008 - DJ |
| Response: DJ this can be a LOT of different things. It is best to seek a medical evaluation and determine what is going on to get the best treatment. |
|
| Question: I scraped the index finger knuckle on my right hand while fixing up my mom's summer house. The next day it was infected, so I cleaned it out & kept it covered. I am a repairman by trade, and have managed to bang, scrape and/or traumatize this knuckle wound every single day for more than a month. It is constantly draining clear fluid, and whenever it does manage to dry out, it just builds pressure from the fluid and bursts after a few hours. It looks like a raised white circle of skin with a dark red lump of meat poking out the middle of it. The red lump looks like it doesn't even belong there. I have full feeling and mobility in the hand and finger, but I go thru a hell of a lot of band aids! Today I started wearing a fingerless work glove to prevent banging it again, which worked well. Does the white circle have to be stitched closed over the protruding red meat lump in order for this thing to heal? Have you ever heard of such a thing as this? |
| 8/6/2008 - Mike |
| Response: this sounds like it is hypergranulation tissue. A visit to a hand doc will most likely require him to use silver nitrate to treat the "overgrowth" and that will stop the continued bleeding. I would recommend this ASAP |
|
| Question: My right index finger was slammed in a car door which amputated the tip of my finger. I went for immediate er care & the results were the tip could not be reattached so the finger was stiched & splinted and I was sent to see an othapedic specialist. Other than the constant pain I have started experiencing shocking pain that run the entire length of my finger, and when I have the bandage changed if I rub the bottom part of my finger it feels like pins and needles sticking me, Have anyone ever had an injury simular to mine and can tell me what to expect in the coming months? |
| 7/31/2008 - cj |
| Response: desensitzation programs will help your pain/sensitivity. Do see about seeing a hand therapy specialist to assist you and make the pain much better. |
|
| Question: i had my left hand crushed, stood on, for a period while playing rugby the next day after waking my palm has pins and needles and my fingers also have the pins and needles with the sensation mor at the ends of my fingers i have now had these symptoms for 4 days what should i do do you think this could be a permanent condition? |
| 7/29/2008 - damian |
| Response: I would recommend you seek medical attention since this has been going on for 4 days now. It is not good to have symptoms that you are describing for this long. |
|
| Question: i cut my hand badly on May 19 of this year. After rushing myself to the er, i had 24 stiches including my 7 inside. It seems to me that i have damaged a nerve of some sort because my pink still doenst have its full feeling back, and part of my hand still feels numb. Besides that, my hand still hurts pretty bad and it doesnt seem to be getting any better. Do you think it may still be healing? And will i ever get my feeling back in my pinky fingure? |
| 7/28/2008 - Renee |
| Response: IF you do not have any change in your feeling since May it is likely that you did have a nerve that is damaged and you may require surgical intervention to regain sensation. |
|
| Question: my sensory nerve was severed 90% will it regrow? |
| 7/26/2008 - pamela thompson |
| Response: 90% cuts often times do not heal without surgical intervention. |
|
| Question: i Smashed my thumb a few days ago and its starting to heal but i cant get my thumb to stop shaking. |
| 7/24/2008 - Morgan |
| Response: If pain and symptoms persist it is time to seek medical attention. |
|
| Question: my mom has a sever pain in left hand last finger.she can move her finger but she cant lift heavey objects . what's the problem n how can she over come it easily. |
| 7/23/2008 - ahmed |
| Response: this could be a large array of problems. She needs to see her Dr. to get a diagnosis and the correct treatment. |
|
| Question: I smashed my hand in the door frame bruised ring and pinky finger knuchles and cant form a fist what did i do |
| 7/22/2008 - Dustin |
| Response: You might have jammed your fingers or you could have broken them. The only way to know is to see a Dr. and have a x-ray to start out. |
|
| Question: i had a boxer fracture two months ago, since i got the cast off my finger wont raise up, i can flex it down, but not a fist. i only have about an inch of movement and it locks. my knuckly is large and has a bump??? |
| 7/19/2008 - dustin |
| Response: It is time to visit a hand therapist if you can. You should have therapy guide you to maximize your range of motion, strength and function. |
|
| Question: what kind of problems can affect the intrinsic and extrinsic muscles of the hand? |
| 7/18/2008 - ang |
| Response: Many problems can affect your intrinsics and extrinsic muscles. To many to list! |
|
| Question: Can not close my hands fully.each finger only closes half way.sore if I try.can you halp me. |
| 7/17/2008 - Antonio Bertolli |
| Response: This can be for many reasons. You need to start by seeing a dr. to get a correct diagnosis. |
|
Question: I fell off a cliff and landed on an incline, fortunately. I used my feet and hands to stop my slide downhill and wounded my left hand on a sharp rock which vertically punctured my hand between my pinky and ring finger, basically bisecting my heart line at that point, the top of the wound starts approximately 1 inch from the top of the palm running down 3/4". The wound was about 1/2" deep, maybe more (probably hit bone.) The wound punctured a vein and produced uncontrollable bleeding (spurting) till it was stitched up. I got 6 stitches for this. This was a month and a half ago. At this point, the stitches are out and I have a nice thick scar which I constantly have to stretch out by flexing my hand. As of 2 weeks ago, except for the remaining swollen part of my palm just below the pinky and the scar itself, I had and have full flexibility, can make a fist and I've created my own strengthening regimen. My hand is getting stronger. However, I have 2 distressing symptoms, which have not really abated: 1) while the outside of my pinky is apparently normal, the whole inside of my pinky from tip to bottom, is numb to all except the sensation of pressure. As I said above, the padding beneath seems to be a bit bloated as if blood was having a hard time draining out of that area; and 2)relatedly, if the area on or left of the scar is so much as tapped, I have the strange sensation of blood rushing back up my pinky, like a wave.
I was wondering if perhaps my scar, which is pretty thick, is possibly preventing the free flow of blood from my pinky and/or though the skin is reformed above, whether it is possible that the aforementioned vein is still in disarray, possibly also contributing to my numbness, or if it is more likely nerve damage I'm dealing with or some weird combination. Has anyone heard of this? Can anyone shed light here? |
| 7/16/2008 - Jeff |
| Response: It does sound like you might have damaged the nerve when you injured your finger. You could try a round of therapy to desensitize but you may still need surgery to repair the nerve if it damaged. Tests can be done to assess the nerve and the damage that is done. |
|
| Question: had glass cut on palm of hand finger next to the thumb went numb the doctor said i probably had radial nerve damage that would probably heal on its on how long should it take |
| 7/15/2008 - shelia cain |
| Response: nerves take a long time to heal - often months - make sure you are seeing appropriate hand professionals to maximize a full recovery. |
|
| Question: I Broke my pinky afew months ago and tapped it myself now i can not bend it fuuly or make a fis what kind of exercise can i do to improve it |
| 7/15/2008 - ann |
| Response: Gentle exercises will bring your motion back. You might try them in warm water to loosen the fingers up first. One or two visits with a hand specialist will facilitae a quick recovery. |
|
| Question: My left hand ring finger tip keeps going numb. What could be happening? |
| 7/14/2008 - Veronica |
| Response: I have no idea as it could be related to many many things. If persists - seek medical attention. |
|
| Question: I was in accident a little over 2 1/2 months ago where I had a severe laceration to my right hand on a piece of glass. This severed my some of my nerves and my tendons and i had to have surgery. Anyway, I had been going to therapy and my hand has been recovering but I have missed the last 3 weeks of therapy due to financial and transportation issues and now I have moved to another state with some family. My hand has been healing well and I have been doing hand exercises and I can almost make a complete fist except for my pinky and ring finger which are almost there, but the feeling in hasnt fully recovered, But I'm still concerned about lost progress. Is there something else I could be doing to help myself and should this lost progress be a major concern of mine? I would appreciate any advice. |
| 7/11/2008 - A |
| Response: If you do not have the funds to do therapy 3x's a week you should consider a weekly visit for a home program. This should be affordable and they can progress you steadily to assist you with maximal recovery. |
|
| Question: I cut through my left ring finger where it meets my hand. the doctor superglued it and gave me a tetnus shot. it has been several days now and it is numb on the top of the finger. I play the piano and am fearful concerning my finger. I was wondering if a nerve could be affected by this and if it will correct itself? |
| 7/8/2008 - sherri hunter |
| Response: If you have numbness especially up the finger at all you should get this checked out by a hand surgeon as you could have easily damaged a nerve - the nerves are quite superficial. |
|
| Question: i smashed my finger over a month ago and i didnt poke a hole in the nail till a few weeks later and nothing came out. is there something else i should do or should i just let it grow out? it doesnt hurt but the bruise takes up a little less than half the nail? |
| 7/7/2008 - danielle |
| Response: These often times grow out with no difficulty. If you are not having any pain or problems this should grow out overtime. If you are concerned in any way see your dr. right away. |
|
| Question: Last weekend my daughter fell with a perfume bottle in her hand and had cut it just underneath her right middle finger it has healed now but she is saying it hurts when she bends her finger and she cant bend them right down. Do you think there is anything in there |
| 7/7/2008 - Lynsey |
| Response: This should be checked ASAP - she could have glass inside and or she might have damaged a tendon or a nerve. Better safe to see a dr. than sorry later with bigger problems. See a hand specialist if possible. |
|
| Question: 12 weeks ago I have an accident at work and had to have operations which have plates in my right wrist and left elbow. I wake every morning with tightness in both is there anything I can do to loosen this tightness it is there all day along please? I am a secretary and need my hands to type. |
| 7/6/2008 - Sonia |
| Response: If you go for a visit or two to a hand specialist they can guide you in some exercises to help loosen your tight wrist/hand/elbow. A home exercise program should be enough to get you moving pretty quick. |
|
| Question: I cut my finger on metal about 3 days ago and it swelled up and is very sore I did not have a tetnus (not sure how to spell}shot should I go to the doctor ? |
| 7/2/2008 - richard |
| Response: Yes - see a Dr. Better safe than sorry! |
|
| Question: i have a boxer fracture and i get it off tomorrow and i dont want to get to hyped up about it getting off so how do i know if its healed how would it feel like |
| 7/1/2008 - melvin |
| Response: They will not remove the cast unless you are healed. Follow the orders closely and you will do great. |
|
Question: im 17 and was in a car accident where the car flipped to my side and the breaking of the window caused me to have trauma to right hand. i had a hairline fracture by my pinky and many scrapes and bruises and ofcourse swelling as well as many open wounds that were stitched up during surgery. during surgery they also noticed that 3 of my tendons (the pinky, ring and long finger) were slightly damaged so they repaired them. now i have a splint on for about 3 weeks, and then i begin therapy.
my question is, am i going to be able to move my fingers and hand like before? and how long may this take?
thanks. |
| 6/30/2008 - kristie |
| Response: Tendon injuries take a lot of care and require several months to heal. On average you will be returning to normal use/function by around 12 weeks post injury. |
|
| Question: I was knocking hard on a glass door 5 weeks ago. Straight after 3 knuckles on my right hand were swollen and bruised. 5 weeks on my middle knuckle is still painful when hit, bent or picking things up. I can see a circle like bruise with some swelling but not lots. Feel a bit silly going to get it x rayed as not majorly swollen and I can still move it. Not sure what to do now. |
| 6/29/2008 - Kirsty Preston |
| Response: It can't hurt to get it checked by a dr. - if it turns out nothing is wrong you have lost nothing other than a copay to your dr. but if it is something more serious you can get it resolved early rather than late. |
|
| Question: I had carpal tunnel surgery and they dislocated my thumb, due to the swelling and pain it was not noticed for months. The hand surgeon says that he cannot fix it. Is that true? |
| 6/29/2008 - Midge |
| Response: What do you mean they dislocated your thumb? They dilocated it during surgery? If it is now relocated, in time the thumb should improve. Have the therapist work on this also that you are seeing for you care for your CTR. |
|
| Question: I fell at work 5/15/2007 and injured my head and right index finger. The right index finger still has tenderness, swelling and decreased range of motion. With exercise I can make a closed fist. I also have sharp pain in the right elbow boney part. It is a constant pain that will not go away even when I take 600 mg of IB. In addition the insurance company does not recommend EMG. I am schedule to see a hand specialist. Until than what can I do to make the pain go away. |
| 6/29/2008 - Donna |
| Response: It is good that you are seeing a specialist. I am not sure what to suggest since you do not know what is going on at this point. I would use heat or cold to relieve pain if either of them work until your visit. |
|
Question: i had surgery on my left middle due to mallet finger
and i wanted to know will i still be able to play guitar? |
| 6/26/2008 - nick |
| Response: A minimum of 8 weeks after surgery before you will be able to anything without having protection on your finger. You should be back to doing all of your activities b 12 weeks. Check with you doc. |
|
| Question: I was diagnosed as having mallet finger at the beginning of April and wore a splint for the past 2 months. After removing, the finger is still quite swollen fairly stiff, and bruised looking and. Is hot/cold therapy the best way to reduce the swelling/pain as it heals? It's been about 10 days without the splint. Any advice would be appreciated. |
| 6/20/2008 - Ronni Valenti |
| Response: It would be great to have one visit with a certified hand therapist as they can show you some great methods for reducing the swelling and increasing the motion. Coban wrapping is great for both swelling and pain but you should see a qualified professional to learn how to apply it. |
|
| Question: I had a contusion in my right hand 6 mths ago, my doctor did mri and xray and he said he can't see nothing wrong. I can't use the computer for no more than 15 minutes after which my hands hurt, i can't hold cold things for long, and even when it is in a stationary position it hurts. The shelving in the store fell between the wrist and the knuckles.The inner part of my hand hurts the most. |
| 6/18/2008 - caryl |
| Response: did you see your general doc only? It might be time for a hand specialist since you are still experiencing real and concerning symptoms. |
|
| Question: I have a patient that is unable to make a fist without his 4th DIP joint extending. He previously had a pin removed in that finger several months ago. I have just started with him as he had been getting therapy previously somewhere else. It seems likely that it is just joint stiffess and needs mobilization and stretching? I just dont want to miss anything. Is there a chance that he might have additional tendon issues? |
| 6/17/2008 - paul |
| Response: he very well could have tendon issues with your description. Try to assess for intrinsic/extrinsic tightness and perform blocking to see if you have any tendon glide present. |
|
| Question: I injured my middle finger while bowling with a ball that was too heavy and not drilled for my hand. It has been several months now and constant use of the finger makes it painful. There is swelling between the base of the finger and the knuckle. When I try to close my fist, the middle finger doesn't bend with the others. |
| 6/16/2008 - Carol |
| Response: you need to see a dr. regarding this - you might have damaged your tendon and early intervention is critical |
|
| Question: I was diagnosed with chronic regional pain syndrome in my hands after 1 1/2 of going to several Drs. Have multi symptoms (Pain, numbness, tingling, pins/needles, cramping, coldness, going up to mid forearms bilaterally). Now the problem, I fell 2 mos ago and broke my hand (5th metacarpal) and dislocated my wrist. Had it pinned and since removed. I am in OT. Wondering How long and how much ROM might get back w/other condition. Can't turn a door knob, cut with a knife, brush teeth, put hair in a rubber band. I use to be a photographer and the Drs. think the onset of CRPS may have been from constant shooting???(on the right hand by the way is where the break occurred and that is my dominant hand) Thank! |
| 6/14/2008 - Beth |
| Response: CRPS is very unpredictable. It is good that you are seeing hand specialists that can intervene early and aggresively. |
|
| Question: I chipped the knuckle joint in my pinkie finger in February. I kept thinking it would get better, and began splinting after a couple weeks. April 4th I saw my family physician who said to completely immobilize with splint for 3.5 weeks. Since the splint kept coming off and pain and swelling continued, I splinted for about 10 weeks. As I am over 40, now doctor says I may have major pain and stiffness issues. We cannot afford physical therapy. Is there any help for me at home, on my own? |
| 6/12/2008 |
| Response: 10 weeks is a long time to have been immobilized. It might be best to see a therapist for just one session to get an aggressive home program to assist you. |
|
Question: I have gone through three surgeries.
1) Ligament Reconstruction
2) Thumb clicking
3) CMC Arthoplasy.
The third surgery was done in November, 2007 and cast was removed in January, 2008. I still have pain underneath my thumb and the pain is 24/7.
I have started working but my hand is really bothering me. Could you please advise me. |
| 6/11/2008 - shabniz ismail |
| Response: You need to visit your surgeon and possibly begin hand therapy by now. They will have valuable input for you. |
|
Question: I FELL GOING UP METAL STAIRS CAUGHT MYSELF WITH HAND FALLING MY THUMB POPS MIN AND OUT HARD AND MY PALM SOMETIMES BURN WHAT CAN I DO THANKS
|
| 6/1/2008 - JEFF |
| Response: Hi Jeff - I would see you family dr. first and see if you need a consult with a hand specialist |
|
Question: My little brother almost severed his right pinky finger at the knuckle just below his fingernail this afternoon. The doctor just put 4 "loose" stiches in it to sew it back on and put it in a splint (the bone was completely broken at the joint). And told him to come back in 2 days to see if he would be able to keep it or if they would have to remove it.
I asked him about the possibility of doing surgery to connect the blood vessels he said they only do that for the first finger or thumb injuries, unless the patient is a pianist, violinist, etc. I understand that the pinky finger is not as "important" as the index finger, but is is it a common practice to not attempt to re-connect blood vessels for in a pinky? |
| 5/25/2008 - Andy |
| Response: When the finger is injured that far down the blood vessels are often not damaged and the finger will re-vascularize on its own. They can use other methods to bring the circulation back also. Fingers crossed the body takes over and brings good news and healthy blood to the finger tip. |
|
| Question: I recently had my slammed into a sharp metal corner by 60-80 lbs coming up the isle of a bus. It didn't break any skin but I can see blood pooled just under the surface and the area of the hand is now very tender to the touch. It is between my fourth and fifth finger about 1/2 inch from the wrist. Any suggestions? |
| 5/23/2008 - Lori |
| Response: These pools of blood or blood blisters are not usually threatening to the hand especially if small. If they are extrememly large you can have an area that will remain open and sore for some time while it heals once it "pops". Watch for infection and see a Dr. if it persists. |
|
| Question: I never could of moved my right hand finger(lower finger),im not sure why,never hade any kind of injury. Im planning on going to the doctor to get a x ray and see if i can Fix it. |
| 5/18/2008 - J. |
| Response: Going to a hand doc is a good place to start for this type of problem. |
|
| Question: My therapist says I need a splint to improve my "palm up" motion. He is looking up possible splints. Any recommendations? |
| 5/16/2008 - |
Response: She might look at Joint Active Systems, Dynaslint or a custom device.
Good Luck! |
|
| Question: i had suffered from hesd injury and had lt sided hemiplegia now i have recovered but having problem in index and thump i cannot do the extension activities with these fingers die to ewakness pleae suggest a proper therapy therapy for the same and suggest some apparatus if available |
| 5/11/2008 - lakshan |
| Response: You should seek the help of a qualified occupational therapist. Ask your Dr. for a prescription - the therapist can often provide adaptive equipment to help you and exercises to improve function. |
|
Question: How can you tell if your thumb is jammed? there is some swelling and pain to move it
|
| 4/27/2008 - froggylavergne |
| Response: If you thumb doesn't heal and feel better in a few days it is worth a visit to the Dr. to have an x-ray done to ensure nothing more serious is happening. |
|
| Question: I am rt. handed-my left hand knuckles ache and I cannot get my wedding ring on/off b/c of the knuckle. My left hand is slightly swollen/bigger than left upon comparing. I am almost 40 years old. Could this be something other than age? My ring not fitting seemed to have happened over a 4-6 month period, i think. |
| 4/27/2008 - michele hollar |
| Response: This can be for many reasons from arthritis, to changes in swelling due to temperature or hormones. If it doesn't change in the next few months I would have the ring re-sized. |
|
| Question: I had surgery 3 weeks ago to re-connect a severed tendon in my left thumb (the result of a biking accident). I was fitting today for a removeable splint and given some basic exercises to regain mobility in all areas of the left hand and wrist, but nothing specifically for the directly injured area. I see the surgeon again in 3 weeks. How long will the rehabilitation process be (the therapist today suggested another 3 month...does this mean I won't be able to golf for another 3 months?) |
| 4/24/2008 - Peggy |
| Response: Tendon injuries do take approximately 12- 16 weeks to rehab. before full activities are allowed. This is not unusual as they take a long time to heal fully. |
|
| Question: I have had triger finger release lseveral times, this last time i am having difficulty in getting a full range of motion in the middle and ring fingers. they both had surgical release. can you give me some excercies that i can do at home to help this |
| 4/23/2008 - sandra bogan |
| Response: It is important not to over exercise after trigger release. If you have full passive range and llimited active glide your tendon might be adhered in scar. It is best to seek a good hand therapist to help assess what is going on. |
|
| Question: What is the protocol for an extensor tendon repair for a generic clients? |
| 4/22/2008 - Quesa |
| Response: We don't teach protocols specifically. Treatment is designed for each patient. You do have special concerns with geriatric clients to consider. |
|
| Question: Went through surgery 9 weeks on my left thumb to reconnect cut tenndon. Wore a cast for 3 weeks and now going to hand physical therapy 3 times a week for the past 4 weeks thumb doing well but every morning my whole left hand is so stiff. I put heat on it and work it and it function all right but every morning it is very stiff again. Is this a temporary thing or will it take awhile to become normal again. |
| 4/20/2008 - Barry |
| Response: It can take months to recovery after injury such as this. You appear to be doing all the right things with the right people and as long as you are seeing progress that is all that counts now. Keep up the good work. |
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| Question: Thumb will not bend at finger tip joint. Does this mean a torn tendon? I have no pain-Occasionally the joint will crack-then there is pain |
| 4/19/2008 - Joanne |
| Response: It very well could be a tendon injury but it could be other things. It would be imossible to guess without seeing you thumb. I would get medical attention as soon as possible as if it is a tendon injury early intervention is critical. |
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| Question: Burning pain in L wrist rediating into forearm at times for past 8 wks. palm is concave xray shows subluxation of thumb and spurs with subchondral cyst, hand Dr recommending a "CMC arthroplasty" with local and minimal recovery of maximum of two weeks. He stated it's the "worst thumb" he's every seen. What is CMC arthoplasty and is this a reasonable estimate for recovery, what are complications? Being done outpatient under local. |
| 4/17/2008 - Mary Kay |
| Response: CMC arthroplasty can be done in a variety of ways. Some do partial reconstructions others do complete. The average time in a splint/cast is 6 weeks and for full recovery average time is about 6 months if a complete reconstruction is done. Yours sounds as if he/she is doing much less intervention as the recovery time is so quick. You might ask specifically the intervetion he is doing and then research it a bit more. |
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| Question: i was injured on the job 12/05/07 i was lifting empty 55gal. drums. i didn't realize anything happened untill 15min. later. i can't make a fist anymore. mri found inflamation in my tendon,but no signs of anything else. stiil can't make a tight fist anymore.right hand. had two injections in radial area. don't know whats going on mabe you can tell me something. thank you for listening |
| 4/15/2008 - WILLIAM |
| Response: Inflammation can cause problems that last for a long time but with proper therapy you should be able to regain all or most of you motion if you don't have damaged structures. I hope you are seeing some hand care professionals and this way you are able to get the proper care to allow for full function. |
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