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Question: baby pinched his finger in closing cabinet door. top nuckle swollen need advice? indent on both sides. he is holding a bottle with the hand but he screamed for a little while and then quit after 5 minutes.

10/17/2010 -

Response: Always a good idea to get an x-ray just to make sure he/she is not injured.

Question: i hit the tip of my index finger now it won't bend and its numb

10/6/2010 -

Response: Persistent numbness warrants medical attention

Question: how will my hand look after my index finger has been removed from my wrist

10/5/2010 - margaret blissett

Response: Look up ray resection pictures to see how your hand will look.

Question: While a hand has a bad infection and needs operated on to clean out the infection would drains tubes be needed ? What meds should be used to prevent a infection when a patient enters the ER with a open fracture?

10/4/2010 - michael

Response: Varies per dr. and per hospital

Question: my doctor wants to remove my nuckle joint in my right thumb by my hand what is this called and what are the disadvantages of this procedure.

7/26/2010 - aletha

Response: Perhaps is a first CMCJ reconstruction which is done to relieve pain.

Question: my 13 year old neice put her hand through and window and severed her tendons and nerves. Do you have any suggestions how to help motivate her to do her physio? Being 13 years old it is very hard to encourage and motivate but not nag and get her back up. Is there anyone who specialises in teenagers and physio?
looking forward to advise as this injury could affect so much of her future!!!

7/8/2010 - melinda shelley

Response: Any certified hand therapist will know how to handle this teenager. Please encourage treatment recommended by the Dr.

Question: after having surgery on fractured right radious head, Can't raise my fingers nor extend my thumb. What would cause this, for it has been six mths. since the surgery. no testing has been done on the nerves. what should I do.

5/4/2010 - Jackie

Response: I agree with you - have the nerves tested!

Question: 5 days ago my husband suddenly found he could not move his wrist up, then as the day went on his fingers will not move up, then the next day found his "motor skills" are way off. Today(5 days later) he cannot write or use the hand at all, there is NO PAIN at all just limp, he has all feeling NO numbness. No neurologist will see him there's weeks of wait for appointment or they just don't call back.
WHAT could this be? will his hand come back eventually. It is his right hand.

thank you, please help... we are so worried.

5/4/2010 - GG

Response: This sounds quite serious and it is good that you are seeing a neurologist soon.

Question: Had fusion op in January on top joint of index finger. So far the jointhasnot healed together-about 40% I am told. Why won't this fuse and is there still achance for fusion after all this time . Have to keep splint on for another 6 weeks

4/29/2010 - Rita Brown

Response: That seems to be a very long time for not healing. Perhaps it would be helpful to have a second opinion.

Question: my son went to a&e on sunday wiv a fractured finger n they said it was out ofplace so taped it up he went to the orphapedic today n they put it back in place n put plaster cast on it but now the pain is more severe than ever he went back 2 a&e n they gave him co codamol which he had already hes literally feelin that much pain he feels like he is going 2 pass out

4/29/2010 - tracy ellis

Response: that is too much pain - cast may be too tight - get it checked immediately

Question: I fell off my bike, and hit my palm full force on the curb, xrays showed bone chips on either side of my hand, I was told it is just sprained and was given a splint. There is much discoloration from bruising all the way around my wrist and accross my palm. Will this heel on it's own?

4/27/2010 - JB

Response: some fractures can heal with no interventions but others can't - it depends on what was fractured

Question: what is the reason for numbness in right lower forearm & which doctor should i consult?

4/27/2010 - Uday Amarnath Dass

Response: It can be a large array of problems - you can start with a consult with a neurologist.

Question: I broke my scaphoid several months ago and went for therapy. My AROM is 70/65. How much is normal? What percentage have I lost?

4/22/2010 - Rachel Manly

Response: 70/65 is pretty good - compare to the opposite to see what is normal for you!

Question: i cut the tendon in my index finger 6 weeks ago,luckily it wasnt cut all the way thru.how long will it take for the numbness and tingling to go away

4/18/2010 - chris lakoumentas

Response: hopefully you havd the nerve repaired as this is critical to get the sensation back

Question: I had surgery 2 months ago for trigger finger and the finger is still swollen and sore

4/9/2010 - cheryl

Response: did you try rehab yet they have a lot of little things that can help including gloves to decrease swelling and massage techniques

Question: I fell backwards as the Dr put on my x ray form Foosh it happened last tuesday evening whilst at work I had something in my right hand so tried to save myself with my left and landed very heavily. My wrist and fingers swelled up and it is very painfull on the top side of the wrist near the bone on the outer side of the wrist specially when I try and turn my hand (twist) or accidently pick anything up nothing showed on the x ray and it's been nearly a week now but it has showed no improvement at all and the pain is quite sickly and I still have swelling? I thought it might have started to improve by now.

4/5/2010 - Nicola

Response: FOOSH is fall on the outstretched hand - you need x-rays to determine if you have a fracture.

Question: I have been having severe pain on the side of my hand next to my pinky and my hand in between my thumb and my index finger have sunk in. Could you please help with some advice on what I should do? Thank You.

3/14/2010 - Sonya Upton

Response: It sounds like you have an issue with your ulnar nerve based on what you described. You need to determine why it is compressed or damange and reverse this.

Question: whenever i try to use my left hand to write or to do anything it hurts .onedoctor said it was cold in my hand and the other one said it is arthritis and it hurts so much and iot tingles sometime and sweats too.

3/13/2010 - atiya

Response: You could seek the treatment of a hand therapist as he/she could give you pain relief techniques to do at home based on the appropriate diagnosis.

Question: It looked like a deep scratch at first, and this has been day 4 and the right thumb is purple at the thumb knuckle and red on the outside of the purple coloring and it seems to be spreading to the the second joint towards my hand, what can I do or take to stop this infected area, and can I use some sort of a soak, and with what?
Paul

3/10/2010 - Paul

Response: You don't want to mess with infection - you want to treat this medically.

Question: I had surgury for broken wrist - both bones- and had the cast removed 5 days ago. I can move the fingers up and down, but they are very hard to bnd at the knuckles. I can not bend my thumb at the knucle on purpose - I can bend it with the othr hand - also my middle finger wants to cure down.

I keep doing many exercizes but I am getting upset.

Am I being unrealistic? I am 62 and have no arthritis and do water aerobics daily

3/7/2010 - andrea

Response: Keep up the good work - these injuries can be very detrimental if you don't stay on top of them. Be aggressive if you are healed and push to the limis.

Question: My husband crushed his left index finger with a wood splitter in October. It was split vertically and bilaterally, but the fingertip was pink. He had 2 surgeries with an external fixator applied to this finger and a bulky dressing which restricted movement to the whole hand. A month later, my husband opted to remove this finger--it kept oozing through the dressing for the whole month. Here it is March, and it still stiffens up like rigor mortis after therapy. He still is very protective of it. Is this normal? Most of the swelling is down and of course, the scar is healed.

3/6/2010 - carol skilling

Response: The swelling ans stiffness are normal and can last for up to a year post surgery.

Question: What does FDS and FDP intact to independent testing mean? I'm not a hand therapist, I work in a school and a nurse just asked me about these terms in report she recieved from an OT who worked with a student who is now attending one of the schools in which I work.

3/4/2010 - Suzanne Roy

Response: It means that both tendons are functional on an independent level.

Question: I had a mallet fracture with a fracture, with accompanying volar displacement. Unfortunately, the hand surgeon needed to put 3 pins in the finger in order to stablize it. This surgery happened 2 weeks after injury.

Last week, I had the pins removed. There is still a considerable amount of swelling in the DIP joint, and it only has a range of motion of about 10 degrees. It's stuck at 6 degrees (won't straighten).

Physical Therapy just started 2 days ago, and I've been doing my exercises religiously.

I'm worried that there has been no change in the range of motion, and that the swelling hasn't gone down. I can't find any resources on the internet for what to expect during the time after pin removal. Should I be worried about the swelling and lack of mobility?

3/3/2010 - Dan

Response: Mallet fingers can take months to rehabilitate. I have had some that get the end range of extension as late as 6 months later.

Question: I was coming out of a gas station and my hand got caught in the handle of the store door I heard my pinky finger snap. My whole right hand has been swollen since 2/19. I went to er no fracture 3 days ago went to pcp went for second xray negatve but my pinky finger the pain is awful continous and radiates palm of my hand and to wrist tried motrin ice everything. what should I do

3/2/2010 - Tanya Mcknight

Response: Ligament or tendon injuries are not diagnosed by x-ray and can be more painful than a fracture. Did they give you a diagnosis. That would be a good start. You might need a custom splint or wraps for the swelling.

Question: Hi, I been having pain and tingling in my index finger,thumb wrist, pinky, that goes to my forarm bicep,armpit,to my shoulder and neck. my emgncs is negative iam very frustrated they dont know what wrong with me. can you please help? going on for 2yrs

3/1/2010 - mago

Response: ongoing numbness is not a good idea to play with due to the risk of permanatnet nerve damage. Perphaps you could have nerve conduction studies done to assess what nerves are possibly injured.

Question: I have injured my hands went to my physician and dianosed with injured tendons, I am experiencing severe inflammation in both hands, lateral discomfort in both hands ulnar side,flexion and extension is painful as well as circular rotation of both hands,my pinky finger left hand is inflammed at medial knuckle.inflammation is between middle and ring fingers and pain occurs between middle finger down into front of hand this is occuring to both hands, this injury occured by digging trenches around a entire circumfrence of a home also digging a 3/4' deep surface for a fountain, not to mention landscaping entire property in a 3 day period and other various clean up efforts. So with that being said can you give me any advise or thoughts about a cure, do you have a office in which to treat.
Thank you,
Mary

3/1/2010 - mary

Response: Hi Mary your case is complex and you would need to see us for us to give you an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Injured tendons sounds vague. If you are not very happy with your current dr. you might get a second opinion.

Question: A vein in my left hand, suddenly become itchy and swollen and then left a blue mark, as if it has been bruised.. What is this from? Should I be concerned? I am about 8 weeks pregnant w my second child.. Thanks..

2/19/2010 - Angela Shipe

Response: You should have your OBGNY check it when you go for your next visit

Question: I dislocated the top of my pinky finger about 5 years ago and didn't realise until I went to a doctor about it a few months later. I had the joint fused in a fixed position. I t has been nearly 5 years since the surgery, but is there any way the fused bone can be re-broken and have an artificial joint inserted to give me back some motion in the joint?

I am a guitarist you see and my fingers are extremely important to me! I mean its not that it gives me pain or anything, it's just really annoying that I can't move that joint at all.

I'm 20 years old so my bones are still in good shape!

I know that joint replacements are generally only used for those with arthritis, but is there any way they could do this procedure for me and would there be any negative consequences of doing so?

Thank you very much.

2/19/2010 - David Kenny

Response: Yes you can have resconstructive surgery.

Question: two weeks ago I cut my thumb and had to have six stiches 10 days later I had my stiches taken out. The cut is healed but my thumb is still swollen and hurting really badly. It hurts when I bend it, when I am writing and when I pick up things. what's wrong with my thumb do I need to see my doctor.

2/18/2010 -

Response: you should have a follow-up scheduled and if your dr. is still concerned he can send you to a specialist

Question: My index middle and pinkie finger have been turning white and going numb during the day what do you think might be causing this? It is not painful just annoying.

2/18/2010 - Cindy

Response: it could be a whole host of things - you need to have this assessed to determine what is going on.

Question: i dislocated my pinky about 8 weeks ago. The doctor put it back in place and everything was fine, but the swelling has not gone away around the bone. It is very hard. My finger is not sore but i cannot straighten or bend it fully. Should i go back to the doctor.\?

2/18/2010 - jessica poe

Response: you should have a follow-up set up and if you are not able to move well you need to seek therapy to allow for full motion.

Question: I have RA. About 4 months ago I had a flare that included inflamation in my hand. Steroids got rid of the inflamation and everything went back to normal except the flexor tendons of my right hand seem very tight-short. ROM is not quite normal but I can extend my fingers when my wrist is in neutral position. When my wrist is cocked upward even a small amount my fingers will not extend fully.

2/17/2010 - Sandra

Response: splinting and therapy can assist you.

Question: I've got a 1.5 cm focal tear in my common extensor tendon. I can't find too much information on an acute tear as most information is on tennis elbow. ? I have a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon for review. What is the likely prognosis for this injury? How long will it take to heal?

2/17/2010 - Bevan

Response: there are many approaches to treament of this tear. Various treatments will result in various outomes.

Question: About a year ago my boyfriend broke his hand, but because he couldnt afford to take the time off work he wouldnt get a cast on and bared the pain ... now he is having a hard time he cant peel vegetables with out being in pain is there anyway to fix this and how would they?

2/10/2010 -

Response: it has been a while so the options are more limited. You could have him seek the attention of a special hand surgeon to see if anything can be done to help or therapy to assist with the hand.

Question: I fell in the shower over a month ago and cut my left(non-dominant) forearm deep enough the see the muscle and may have slightly slit part of it. i got stitches and healed fine but have recently started weight lifting and can't lift over five pounds with this arm. After attempting at rowing practice to lift, my arm has gone numb and i can not tighten my fingers into a fist. What could be going on in my arm and should i seek physical therapy?

2/8/2010 -

Response: You might have cut a nerve also - you need to see a hand surgeon soon.

Question: my son left hand get syndactly repair and five finger get seperate but movement of all finger is not proper, please guide me and if possible i send the photograph of my son mast rohan ,he complete 17 major surgery to achieve this stage please guide me this a question a father who want to do something for his child .

2/6/2010 -

Response: you need to seek the guidance of a hand therapist locally - this is a complex problem and you need one on one care.

Question: I don't remember ever hurting my wrist, but slowly the pain is increasing when I bend it near a 90 degree angle. I notice the pain the most when I try to do some exercise that requires a push up. I can not put any weight on it the. If I push on my wrist with my other hand I can feel the exact spot that hurts. I've been trying not to use it, bu it doesn't seem to be going away. Should I see a Doctor or wait longer? I guess I would say this has been going on over a month.

2/5/2010 - Kathy Isaacson

Response: If it is a problem don't wait it is better to get attention sooner than later.

Question: I smashed my thumb, tip first in a mountain bike crash 4 weeks ago. I was going very fast and it hard. It was more like 'piledriving' my thumb into the ground. I had xrays, it isn't broken. All the bruising is gone except a bit around the nail. I have better ROM but I still can't flex it much and the knuckles are swollen still. I ice/heat and keep it wrapped. Is it just time?

2/4/2010 -

Response: Sprains can be more painful and longer to heal than breaks. Keep a close eye on it and if it is not better in a week or two go back and get it rechecked for ligament damage.

Question: I BROKE THUMB DR PUT IN CAST FOR ABOUT 8WKS. DR TOOK X-RAY AFTER REMOVING CAST. SAID IT WAS HEALING GOOD. ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO. I,M STILL HAVING EXTREMELY BAD PAIN IS THAT NORMAL?

2/1/2010 - louis nuccio

Response: no it is not good to have extreme pain - you need to call the office and let them know.

Question: On October 7th last year, I cut my middle finger with a knife by accident. I had to have 10 stitches in my finger. The emergency room doctor said I had hit no tendons. But the tip of my finger was numb. It is now January 21th, and I have pain in my finger where the stitches were. And I cannot close my middle finger all the way. There is a scar but it's actually not that bad, however on the side of the finger I can feel scar tissue. What could be causing the pain? I have no insurance and dread having to see a Dr.

1/22/2010 - Peter De La Rosa

Response: the pain can be from the nerve if it was damaged, scar tissue can also be painful - this is a case of needing hands on assessment to see what we can do to help

Question: I was attact by two dogs three years ago, a little damage shows on mri but the pain and swelling continues to get worse.A docter wants to cut open the first two joints on my hand explore and to a cleaning...does this sound like it may help or what do you think could be going on/PLEASE HELP MICHELLE I AM TIRED OF THE CONSTANT PAIN.

1/14/2010 - michelle morales

Response: an investigation surgical as sugessted is not out of the question

Question: I broke my pinkie finger above bottm knucle(fell hiking) and it was splinted with my ring finger for three weeks have had a month of OT but only can move my pinkie with passive exercises and can only bend ring finger slightly. It is EXTREMELY painful to passively bend these fingers during OT and what I can do at home... at this point is continuing OT helpful? Can surgery help?? I am a young 61 but I feel they think at my age its ok to have minimal movement.

1/10/2010 - Belinda

Response: Nobody can force you to have motion - if you don't want it don't go for it. If you want it you will get it either with therapy or surgery.

Question: punched wall 4 months ago and broke the base of the fourth and fifth metacarpals i also broke the hamate bone witch they connect with in my rist.i was in acast for to months and have been getting physio for to months still cant move hand up an down fully.and when i try to move it to the side it only moves out abit and just locks its also very painful.i also have lost the movement in my fifth metacarpal.went back to docter last week for xray he said that the fifth metacarpal has pushed back had split at the base and conneted on to the hamate bone on my rist and closed the joint between them.can this be fixed by surgery or could i end up makeing my hand worse of i get surgery

1/5/2010 - garreth duffy

Response: Yes it can be worse this is always a risk but it might get better and it sounds as if it won't without a surgical attempt.

Question: Is it possible to have a broken bone in my hand even if I had an X-ray (it was ordered as a L wrist X-ray) that was negative? I fell really hard on ice almost 2 weeks ago (the right wrist is still quite bruised but didn't hurt). The left hand/wrist were very painful so the next day I got an X-ray. Almost everytime I turn my hand/wrist it feels like a bone in my hand (towards the pinky side but a little less than halfway from the wrist) has the ends grating on each other.

I also have audible & palpable "clicking" in my wrist if I turn my wrist (supination/pronation). I didn't think it would still be so painful almost 2 weeks later.

12/31/2009 - Wendy

Response: early neg. x-rays can result in positive x-rays a week or two later. Keep close tabs on the wrist/hand and seek the attention of a board certified hand surgeon.

Question: Two months ago i cutt my ulnar and median nerve. I had surgery about ten hours after the accident. can i expect a good success rate? or am i just going to be disabled the rest of my life. i am in hand therapy got an ulnar and median claw splint to try an prevent clawing. and i see my doctor regularlly. i have asked him butt he just rfeally isnt answering my question.

12/23/2009 - matthew

Response: You may have a complete recovery - only time will tell

Question: I have a fractured in righ hand humb in an accident 5-weeks ago. still little swallon & pain when i pressed thumb & use thumb I am wearing splint . What other treatment would you suggest.

12/19/2009 - hasmukh c patel

Response: your fracture is just beginning to heal at this time. Pain and swelling can persist for a long time. Follow instructions given by the therapist.

Question: Two weeks ago I was seen in urgent care and found I had strep and pneumonia. While there they drew blood from my right hand and put an IV in my left arm. The left arm immediately bruised but not my hand. Everything seemed fine until a week later my right hand suddenly swelled up as though something the size of an egg was under the skin. Docs in the ER got most selling down, diagnosed a hematoma and gave meds and told me to use heat. A week later the swelling isn't completely gone and I have limited movement in my hand. I cannot make a fist or grab anything. I'm now on a steriod and a nerve medication but still no improvement or any real diagnosis from the doctors. This is starting to really affect my daily life. Besides the fact that I am right handed, I can't do dishes, change diapers, wash my hair, cook, etc. I really need an opinion on what could be wrong.

9/23/2009 - Anne

Response: It does sound as if the nerve might have been affected by your description. A wide array of treatments can be done. It might be wise to visit a hand specialist for a check-up.

Question: I cut my thumb, resulting in flexar tendon repair. After initial visit and splint initiation, my thumb is stuck bent at first knuckle, I told theaphist it ached alot, they told me it had to be bent for healing. Now its 6wks out and I cannot straighten my thumb, its still swollen, and I get the impression for both dr and theaphist this is not normal, is it?

9/23/2009 - kim mcbride

Response: It does have to be bent until about 6 weeks post surgery. It can take some time to regain extension. Follow the therapists protocol.

Question: im 8 months pregnat and my finger nails are red and the bottom of my hands r red what is this my dr doesnt know hes never seen it

9/20/2009 - laura

Response: That is a new one for me too!

Question: I have had numbness and tingling in my pinky and ring finger and also that portion of my hand is kind of numb and tingly. this has been going on for three days now and I have read that it could be the ulnar never or a compressed disc but I was wondering how do you know when it is serious enough to go to the doctor

9/18/2009 - crystal

Response: If you have the symptoms for any length of time as you do you should seek medical attention to avoid permanent nerve damage.

Question: I have arthritis in both of my pinkie fingers at the top joints. My job is mostly typing and I was wondering what was the procedure for fusing the joint? What is the procedure and how long could I expect to be laid up?

9/18/2009 - linda

Response: Fusion is an effective means of eliminating motion at the distal joint and often pain. Recovery time will vary from weeks to months per individual person.

Question: I recently had left DeQuervains release on my wrist and thumb. My thumb, next 2 fingers, and top of that hand is numb, because they had to do more than expected during the surgery. Now I need to do desensitivity exercises with PT. What does that mean and what will I be doing?

9/15/2009 - Pat

Response: Desensitization is a technique used to lesson sensitivity.

Question: i had dupuytrens contracure surgery along with flexor tenolysis on 8/26/08.i been to therapy and to this day i can not make a fist or will my fingers bend along with hand deformity now.never had it before till after surgery.it is still stiff.and again went thro more pt with it and they told me they can not do anything more with it.i am stuck now with a handicap on my left hand and also i am left handed and ca not do anyuthing with it.is this normal after 1 yr of having this surgery done thank you

9/14/2009 - kathy

Response: Stiffness is a possible consequence of surgical intervention. Sometimes more surgery can be done to improve the outcome but this also has the potential to make it worse. Did they try splinting of all types?

Question: Boxer's fracture left untreated 2 weeks. Saw an orthopedist and he re-broke my 5th metacarpal with bare hands and local. Put me in hard cast for 4 weeks. Cast has been off 1 week, but no sign of pinky finger returning to regular form. Cannot bend at knuckle. When making fist, pinky finger does not cooperate with rest of hand and stays extended as if sipping wine. What is wrong with me?

9/14/2009 - EGC

Response: If you alignment of your fracture is poor the finger will not be able to go back to "normal". You need to ask your dr. if the x-ray shows proper alignment

Question: CAN IONTOPHORESIS BE EFFECTIVE IN REMOVING SCAR ADHESIONS AFTER PIP JOINT TENDON SURGERY

9/9/2009 -

Response: Some studies do show it is effective.

Question: I have CMC arthritis and am in a lot of pain, I have a brace, I take motrin, I have done everything my doctor has told me to do. He said that surgery would take care of the pain but he won't do it because I am 43. Where do I go from here? Is that it?

9/8/2009 -

Response: You might get a second opinion. It is a bit young for surgery but if therapy and conservative is not helping then surgery might be an opion.

Question: I broke my wrist and it was painful the entire time the cast was on and has since been removed and I still have pain. My hand and wrist feel like they are on fire from the inside out. My hand is swollen and looks somewhat deformed. My doctor doesn't seem interested in any of this. When I went back for a check up after 1week or 2 of having the cast put on I asked my doctor why it still hurt so bad. He said "because it's broken". I haven't bothered him since the cast has been removed but I have concerns.

9/7/2009 -

Response: You are never a bother. If you have concerns get in right away or go to another dr. who will help you!

Question: i cut the tendon to the tip of my pinky finger when i was twelve yrs old, I am now 56 , Is it possible to repair that after all these yrs to restore movement to the tip of my finger.

9/5/2009 - Bob

Response: They would have to do a tendon transfer but anything is possible!

Question: 1st joint crease of middle finger was cut deeply by glass months ago. Looks healed but still pain. why?
I didn't see a doc for this. Pain (like muscle pain) and feel uncomfortable. Nerve was cut or damaged? Need to see a doctor? What doctor?

8/17/2009 - Young

Response: A specialist is a hand surgeon that is who you should see

Question: I had surgery on my broken fifth metacarpal(2 pins)and now that the pins are out my finger seems to be in a permanently bent position and shows no signs of straightening. What's going on? What should I do?

8/6/2009 - Kathy

Response: I would see your dr. and ask if therapy can help to correct the deformity or if it is permanent.

Question: I cut my finger while sharpening a knife. It happened two nights ago. The cut in on the left pointer finger, just above the finger nail and extends to the top right hand side of my finger. It's a curved cut. I've noticed today that I'm experiencing numbness on the side of the finger and it's hard to bend. Did I damage the tendon?

8/5/2009 - Sue

Response: You might have damaged the nerve if it is numb. Worth getting it checked.

Question: broke fifth finger of right hand. surgery and pins inserted. three weeks in a cast. now right hand and wrist very stiff and swollen.. afraid to stretch pinky out too much since it has only been 4 weeks since surgery. ideas for exercise sought.

blessings

8/5/2009 - David Dixon

Response: Hand therapy even one session will be great for you.

Question: I have cut the thumb print of my left thumb clean off, the wound is about 15mm long 10mm wide and 5mm deep. the removed piece of skin was cleaned up and put back in position using sticky stitches to hold it in place. Will it grow back onto the finger with all the nerves reataching themselfs saving the orignal flesh and skin?

8/2/2009 - Abbz

Response: It is possible - they human body is amazing.

Question: It has been a year since ring finger surgery due to a ligament pulling and chipping a tiny piece of bone at the top tip of finger and causing mallet finger. Since the surgery I have stiffness in the ring and pinky finger, mallet finger still, and it will not bend all the way to make a fist. I believe this was due to the amount of time it took to heal. Is there anything that a hand surgeon could possible do to correct or any suggestions?

7/14/2009 - amy

Response: Always worth a visit if you are having functional troubles.

Question: I recently had carpal tunnel surgery on my left hand and a large arthritis bump removed from the hand knuckle on the same hand. I am also having major surgery on my foot in 2 days. My problem is that I cannot get into the PT for my hand in time to learn what to do for the hand while at home recovering from the foot surg. which will be 6 wks. they will not tell me what to do nor are they willing to work me into their schedule in the next 2 days. I am facing recovery with NO pt at all and that scares me. I still have some numbness on the inside of my thumb and my forefinger, although functional, catches and tries to tuck under my other fingers when I bend them. It also scoots to that side when trying to lift something flat fingered. this is worse than before although the pain is gone. Can you give me some exercises for this condition? I have the carpal tunnel ones, but cannot find online anything for this. Thank you.

7/14/2009 - Bee

Response: Can you try to get home health therapy? This might be a great option.

Question: My 8 year old daughter broke her humerous and had a cast on for 5 weeks. It was removed about 2 wks ago and she still is not able to straighten her arm fully. Should I taker her to get OT? She does swim but is now adjusting her arm to swim without stretching it.

7/7/2009 - adri pedroza

Response: If she has still not recovered the motion at least go for a visit or two so you can get the proper exercises going.

Question: I cut my pinkie a few months back requiring 3 stitches. It healed well but there is a slight problem I cant move the tip of my pinkie at all and some timed my finger pinkie gets stuck in a 90 degrees position but it usually cracks open soon after that

The getting stuck part has decreased a lot but i still cant move the tip, PLEASE HELP ME I WANT A NORMAL PINKIE AGAIN.

what can i do?

7/6/2009 - Ray

Response: you may have cut the tendon - you need to seek medical attention to have this assessed!

Question: I am doing a research paper for school and I need to know how long the average length of stay is for hand therapy

7/5/2009 - Danielle

Response: No average - can be a short as one visit or as long as 6 months or more

Question: My Husband is having surgery to remove infection in his finger due to a cut.They may need to put a pin in it.We have plans to take our kids to Six Flags that week should we change our plans?

7/4/2009 - Debbie Kennedy

Response: It depends on how your husband feels about not using his hand while on vacation.

Question: i have four pins in my wrist, is their going to be pain when the dr. removes them

7/2/2009 - sherry johnson

Response: it is often completely non painful but others feel pressrue

Question: I ACCIDENTLY STAB MYSELF IN THE MIDDLE OF MY RIGHT PALM WITH A FLAT END OF A DENTAL SPATULA...MY THUMB FINGER WENT NUMB INSTINTLY..IT BEEN A WEEK ALREADY PAIN IS SLOWLY GOING AWAY..I CAN STILL WORK AND CARRY THINGS BUT MY THUMB STILL FEEL HARD..ONCE A WHILE IT FEELS LIKE A TINY NEEDLE POKING INSIDE..WHAT SHOULD I DO? AND HOW MUCH DOES IT USEULLY COST AT THE HAND SURGERY TO GET MY FEELING ON MY THUMB BACK?

7/2/2009 - Khanh Nguyen

Response: you need a consult with a hand surgeon to review your questions.

Question: I recently broke the tip of my middle finger the bone split in 3 pieces and it is not healing right. The doctor wants to do surgery and put a pin in it. Is this necessary.

6/29/2009 - steve rich

Response: You would need to seek another dr. to physically see it to determine if that is needed.

Question: i was playing volleyball today and my coach serves the ball really hard at me and all of a sudden my wrist started hurting and there was a hung bump on it. it was also blue and hurt alot to touch. what is wrong with it? should i see a doctor?

6/26/2009 - Sophia Martinez

Response: Yes seek medical attention.

Question: (I had handsurgery for morbus dupuytrens on June 3rd 09 on my pinky finger,what can I do for my scar despite the ergotherapy I am already receiving at the local hospital. I am a 61 yr. old male suffering from Diabetes II which is treated with humanalog insulin and oral medication . I feel that the scar heals rather painfully and slowly while the mobility of the opeated finger and its extension and bending capabilities are inproving most satisfactorily post surgery and under ergotherapy.

6/24/2009 - Rudolf the Swiss

Response: I am not sure of what ergo therapy - I am not familiar with the term.

Question: I broke my middle finger in early December. It was only a tiny fracture, however it obviously hasn't healed properly. I get pain all the time in that spot, and it sometimes extends to my wrist and even up my arm. Because I've been compensating for not being able to use my right hand much, the area around my lower left thumb hurts a little. Bad idea. I had a specially-made curved splint, but it one day it just went missing. I tried making my own curved splint, then the upkeep was bothersome so I just took it off and told myself not to use that finger if possible. That proved to be impossible, especially with daily tasks.

Do you think my finger will need to be rebroken? If so, how much physical therapy would that require?

To top it off, I recently became interested in becoming a surgical technician after I leave this job. Is that even possible after my injury?

To make matters worse, I am a secretary and must type on a daily basis. I feel that teling my employer is out of the question because I know how they are; they'd find a way to fire me...it's a law firm no less! The orthopedic surgeon I saw on the initial visit unfortunately had hours that conflicted with my job, and I cannot be absent so long from my desk. Most of those doctors' hours are similar, and I just figured I'd grin and bear it.

What a mess. Advice?

5/28/2009 -

Response: You first need to consult with a hand surgeon to see what your options are. I would get another splint made if that seemed to help in the meantime.

Question: After the birth of my second child, I started to experience pain, limited range of motion, persistent swelling, weakness in my right middle finger. I went to an orthopedic surgeon who prescribed OT for tenosynovitis...but since I had no insurance (and still don't) he did not refer me anywhere specific, did not take xrays or anything. Now it's gotten so bad that every little touch on my finger makes it feel like it's broken...and the middle finger on my right hand is feeling the same. I can't grab, open a jar, type, SWIM, play my guitar, change my baby's diaper, write, hold anything one handed (like a coffee cup or a jug of milk)...but I don't have money/insurance to get Tx. (We make too much to qualify for aid...but we had some tragedies in the past 2 years that wiped out our savings). Can you give me some exercises, advice about relieving the pain? I'm now living on Motrin and taping my fingers together at night. That gives some temporary relief and at least I don't wake up from the pain of brushing my fingers against my pillow in my sleep. Thank you.

5/27/2009 - Denise

Response: I wouldn't be able to give you advise online but I can tell you a therapist can do a one time session and it is not too expensive and they can give you a great program to assist you with your awful symptoms.

Question: What does it mean when your pinky and ring finger are feeling numb after 2 days?

5/27/2009 - Cynthia

Response: It can be the ulnar nerve, it can be a neck problem, it could be a whole host off issues but I wouldn't let it go without checking it.

Question: I was rubbing my wrist a couple of weeks ago, b/c it has been painful during certain movements. I noticed a hard lumb a little larger than a pea located on the thumb side of my wrist. It is tender to the touch and painful at times. I had a doctor look at it the other day and he said that it isn't located on a tendon, but is on the bone. He is not my regular doctor, but another specialist. Any thoughts about what this could be? Compression seems to help a little.

5/26/2009 - Renee

Response: Might be a ganglion cyst, tumor or bony spur.

Question: I HAD SURGERY ON MY FINGER 6 MONTHS AGO PIP JOINT...ADHESIONS ARE RESTRICTING TENDON GLIDING...SHOULD I CONSIDER TENOLYSIS OR WILL THE ADHESIONS RESOLVE THEMSELVES OVER TIME

5/26/2009 -

Response: If after a year of rehab you have not made anymore gains then consider a tenolysis if you are not happy with the results and if passive is signficantly better than active motion.

Question: I JUST STARTED HAVING PAIN IN MY LEFT WRIST. ACTUALLY IN THE MIDDLE OF MY PALM WHERE MY THUMB IS. IT HURTS REALLY BAD. I'M WORK ON THE COMPUTER AT LEAST 13 HRS STRAIT..PROBABLY JUST RESTROOM BREAKS AND LUNCH BUT THAT'S IT. WHAT CAN THIS BE? WHAT SHOULD I DO ABOUT IT? PLEASE HELP.
THANK YOU

5/21/2009 -

Response: I would try to determine what you are doing that causes the pain and change it right away. You can also benefit from a medical consult to get a diagnosis and intervene early before the problem worsens.

Question: I broke me thunb and had 2 pins joining the thumb to the next finger. Was in a cast for 6 weeks, then after getting the cast off about 8 weeks ago i still have loads of pain in palm part of the thumb. Does it take this long to heal or should i go back. I still cant fully straighten out my hand.

5/20/2009 -

Response: It can take months to recover after fracture and injury to soft tissue. Stiffness and swelling can last for 6 months or longer. You need to make sure to follow your therapists and dr.'s recommendations for increasing range and strength.

Question: My son cut his hand, requiring stitches. He now has some numbness on the pinky side of his hand. We have been told that he needs to have surgery to repair the nerve within 2 weeks for the best chance of success. Since we only have a week left, I need to make a quick decision. Seems to me a little numbness on the side of your hand is not worth the risks of surgery. Any thoughts?

5/11/2009 - Lynda Myers

Response: It depends on if he can live with numbness.

Question: I had a injury to my index finger (R)about a month ago and just started having swelling, pain in my nuckle and difficult using it 4 days ago and was seen by a doctor. I was told to splint it and would have to for 2 months because the top of the finger is turned about 1/4 sideways. After about an hour of turning the top of the finger and splinted I get pain 20 times worse to the point I get sick to my stomach and it has a burning sensation. No fracture found on x-ray. Why is the pain so much greater and should I try to tough it out?

5/10/2009 - Leah Lyle

Response: It could be a lot of things and could even be an infection., I am sure you are following up with your dr. and keeping him/her posted.

Question: im 56 male, recently large lumps have formed under my skin on my knuckles. there about half an inch big, if it keeps growin il soon not be able to bend my thumb and fingers. there painful wen pressed against. any ideas what would be causing them.

5/7/2009 - bill

Response: It might be knuckle pads.

Question: While playing football, I slammed my finger into the ball. Xrays show nothing is broken, the doctor said I sprained the finger. What does that mean and when will the swelling go away?

5/5/2009 - David

Response: Swelling can take months to go away but sprains can be bad and it is best to seek a hand consult early rather than later.

Question: is if safe to slowly move a broken knuckle after 3 weeks of healing?

4/29/2009 -

Response: Some fractures can be moved early and others not. You need to check with your dr. or therapist.

Question: How to rehabilitate a sprained pinkie

4/27/2009 - ed

Response: It is too complicated to share on a message board. Often one session will be enough to get you headed in the right direction.

Question: numbness in left pinky finger and left ring finger and lower part of palm what could this mean

4/24/2009 - jerald

Response: It might be the ulnar nerve but could be a whole host of other problems.

Question: what causes pain STUMP at pip joint?

4/23/2009 -

Response: Nerves

Question: I lifted something with my right hand and didn't realize how heavy it was. I felt something snap in my wrist. My wrist aches and when I lift of pull something I have sharp pains shoot through my hand. My hand is also numb. I already submitted this, but I just remembered something - It's not too painful when I just move it around

4/22/2009 - Wendy

Response: You could have sprained it, broke it torn ligments. I would be guessing without seeing you. Seek a medical opinion.

Question: fell, landed on hand about a week ago. as time goes on hand is getting sore starting between thumb and forefinger, in towards palm, pain seems to be noticable more towards center of palm as time goes on, can use my hand with no problem unless i try to grip something or lift using that hand. could this be tendon/ligament issue? and if so would it eventually heal or should it be checked?

4/20/2009 - Holly

Response: It might heal but it is safer to check it as it may get worse and be harder to treat later.

Question: I broke the 3rd Metacarpal in my Right hand in a motorcycle accident. I got my cast off a week ago and I still can't move my wrist past a certain point in all directions. Will the stiffness subside??

4/20/2009 - Ryan

Response: Stiffness can last for quite some time. The younger you are typically the faster you get your motion back.

Question: I work in a slaughter house and,I cut my left pointer finger knuckel to the bone I think I might have cut in to the tendon

4/18/2009 - kyle

Response: You need to see a medical Dr. immediately.

Question: I broke 2 metacarpels(1st and 2nd ) and my ring finger at the base in a fall on the ice in Feburary. I also have brachieal Plexis (erbs palsey) in my right shoulder which alrready affects my right hand(wrist drop). It has been 8 weeks(no surgery) I still have significant swelling. I have been to p.t. and have usec edema gloves. I can't make a fist and have no strength. I am a hairdresser so it bothers my work...am I just being impatient?

4/18/2009 - Steph

Response: You are not being impatient but you fractures are likely still in the healing phase so you do have time.

Question: what kind of home hand therapy should i use for a healing scaphoid brake

4/13/2009 - shelley

Response: These can be very tricky as they can heal slow. Make sure it is healed before starting to exercise.

Question: I had a flexort tendon repair about 10 months ago and I am still having difficulty with fine motor tasks. I play with my putty at home but what kind of exercises can I do to help with finger coordination?

4/13/2009 - Nicole

Response: Coordination can be improved by picking up small items, practicing doing buttons, zippers and snaps. Sometimes your dexterity is limited due to sensory issues and these can be addressed with sensory retraining

Question: my right index finger cut & part of the skin was cut.so the stitching was tight.will it swell up & regain normal size .will the skin stretch while healing process

4/13/2009 - debungkur

Response: the skin has many changes especially in the early stages of healing. Swelling can last for 6 mths to a year.

Question: I am not a patient, but am really in need of an answer if you will. About a month ago I had a nasty fall while walking on railroad tracks. Since then, my pinky on my right hand hasn't been the same ... the part where the finger first bends is obviously swollen. There is no unbearable pain, the only time I can feel it is when I push down on it from by the nail or when I push on where it bends. My mother, who is a nurse, thinks that I am a big worrier and tells me to just let it go because "it could take months to heal," and I currently don't have health insurance to get it checked out. Should I be this worried? Is this something that needs to be checked out sooner than later? I'm very young - I don't want it to be like this forever!

4/8/2009 - Derek

Response: I personally would have it checked if not resolved sooner vs later.

Question: Last thursday, 6 days ago, I jammed my finger at softball practice when fielding. Last friday, 1 day after, I asked the trainer if anything was wrong and he said that it was just bruised. The finger is still swollen at the tip and around the finger nail and is painful. It throbs sometimes during the day. I can't bend the finger completely because of the swelling and it is always bent at the tip because of the swelling. It is red and bruised under the nail and is sometimes warm, what could be wrong?

4/8/2009 - Andrea

Response: You could have damaged the terminal extensor tendon. I would seek medical attention as soon as you can.

Question: After surgery 31/2 months ago for a fx wrist which they put a plate in and pins in a hand and sprial ring finger fx my ring finger is socked in scar tissue. I do therapy 3x a week for 2 hrs doing e stim, tendon gliding, blocking, BMT, ect. I also have a list to do 2 times a day at home. Will physical therapy ever get it free or will I have to have tenolysis eventually?

4/8/2009 -

Response: If therapy does not free it tenolysis can be considered after 6 mths if the passive is significantly greater than the active motion.

Question: I have an avulsion fracture of my index metacarpal and am in a cast. When can I start isometric exercises of the unaffected digits? Is it safe to conduct vigorous workouts such as bicep and tricep curls that do not use the finger but put pressure on the cast and some pressure on the finger (but no pain)?

3/21/2009 - Umang

Response: you need to check with your dr. to see what his/her routine is

Question: I recently cut my middle finger on my left hand off and had it micro-surgicaly reattached. I am having trouble getting past the paralysis in the left hand. Is there any tips or tricks that my therapist does not know about to getting back the function of the entire hand?

3/20/2009 - Ben

Response: This takes a long time to recover from. Communication with your therapist is critical.

Question: I STILL HAVE REDUCED TENDON GLIDING 6 MONTHS AFTER SURGERY ON MY SMALL FINGER...PIP JOINT....HOW LONG WILL PHYSICAL THERAPY BE EFFECTIVE. IS IT MAXED OUT OR SHOULD I KEEP TRYING

3/19/2009 -

Response: You have about a year in which the soft tissue can be affected. You are maxed in therapy when you stop making clincal gains.

Question: for about three months my wrist had been hurting non- stop on like the inside from my thumb to elbow and now there a big bump that hurts on my wrist. im only 15 i dont no what to do? should i go to the doctors, or is it not that seious?

3/19/2009 - amber

Response: Yes go to the Dr.

Question: In May of 2005, I broke the 5th metacarpal in my right hand. It was repaired surgically by inserting a plate and five screws. I was told that the materials used were titanium. I am still experiencing severe pain and was sent for a cat scan. The technician told me that the plate and screws do not show up on the cat scan but they do on an x-ray. She suggested that the materials must be synthetic instead of titanium. Could this be why I am still in pain after four years?

3/18/2009 -

Response: It might be.

Question: I have very little hand movement due to me fallin to sleep in the chair. I woke up on Sunday not being able to move both of my hands. It has been three days now and I am about to get scared due to the fact I can't write or anything now.

3/18/2009 - Eileen Thomas

Response: I would seek medical attentions as soon as possible.

Question: i fracured my finger 3 weeks ago still hurts to bend and still swollen why is that normall

3/17/2009 - gina

Response: It can take up to a year for swelling to resolve.

Question: My daughter(10yrs old) injured her hand at gymnastics and after x ray of hand said her 3rd metacarpal was fractured.They splinted it for 3 weeks. Now the splint has been removed. She has no pain in the area of the 3rd metacarpal but hand is tender over 4th metacarpal. (It hurts when pressure is applied to this area.) Is it possible that the splint was too tight and caused this? Doctor said to give it a few weeks before starting therapy to see if it goes away. any advice?

3/12/2009 - LA

Response: Often the uninjured structures become stiff and sore from splinting. This usually resolves fairly quickly in children.

Question: I had an infection on my left hand due to an infection. Was in the hospital for IV antibiotics for 2 weeks plus surgery. Was then discharged and the infection came back a week later, and was back in the hospital for another 2 weeks. This time was d/c with a cast on. I was in a cast for 2 months and now I have no more insurance so i can't go to therapy for movement in my hand. It has been like 3 weeks. I was wondering what's the outcome if i don't receive therapy/movement in my hand?

3/10/2009 - christine

Response: you should go for one session so they can give you a detailed home program

Question: I punched a wall and broke my fifth metacarpal and i had to have surgery. they re-broke it and put a cast on it for 3 weeks i got my cast off and my hand feels stiff and i cant curl my hand will i be able to curl my hand after it heals a little more?

3/9/2009 - D.J.

Response: it depends on how the fracture was fixed. Sometimes you can and other times you can. Ask your dr. what he/she thinks.

Question: my pinky was rebroken and put into place with a pin, now the pin is out and it's really stiff( I can't bend the dip nor pip joint. The pip was rebroken not the dip So why is both extremely stiff, is this due to the swelling?

3/8/2009 -

Response: stiffness at distal joints is very common. I hope you are going to therapy and they can assist you with all the joints that are stiff.

Question: I DEVELOPED A POST SURGICAL FINGER INFECTION AT THE PIP JOINT. NOW THE TENDON GLIDING HAS BEEN COMPROMISED AND THERE IS A SLIGHT CONTRACTION. PASSIVE MOVEMENT EXCEEDS ACTIVE MOVEMENT. DOES TENOLYSIS HAVE A GOOD SUCCESS RATE

3/4/2009 -

Response: Tenolysis does great for some and awful for others. I would guess it is a 50/50 chance of significant improvement. I have however, seen cases of worsening due to more trauma from repeat surgery.

Question: i was opening a can of corn and the lid cut my pinky finger i went to the hospital and i had 3 stitches put on. and now i cant even bend my pinky i can move it and the bone that is right in the middle of your pinky will i can bend it from the middle down but from the middle up i cant bend it. when i bend it from the middle down my pinky goes down but at the same time its straight. and when i try to bend my whole pinky it feels like if there is a string holding my pinky back and i get this pain and it feels wierd all at the same time. what can it be?

3/3/2009 - daisy zavala

Response: You might have cut the tendon. This is often not detected at the emergency room. You need to see your dr. soon.

Question: i cut my middle finger requiring eight stitches..the cut is on the inside/back of finger..it happened five weeks ago..it's tingly and somewhat numb..i can bend and use it with no problem, it just feels wierd...my concern is i'm a guitar player..will i regain normal feeling...i was told it might take awhile(5-8 weeks) signed " a little impatient "

3/1/2009 - m hughes

Response: if you cut the nerve it would need to be repaired to allow feeling again.

Question: I was playing racketball and hit a shot and my middle finger tendon over the knuckle flopped over between my ring finger and middle finger knuckles? I taped it up with a splint for 2-3 days. I can bend it and even shake someones hand, but its still swollen and very tender. If I saw a doctor would he be able to do anything???? What should I do for it?

2/28/2009 - bob

Response: It might have ruptured connecting structures. I would get a physians opinon.

Question: HI DOCTOR I HIT MY RIGHT INDEX FINGER WITH SOMETHING,NOW MY FINGER NAIL IS SWELLING AND THE TIP OF MY FINGER IS NUMB HOW CAN I GOING ABOUT TREATING, I TRY EVERYTHING PUT ON OATMENT AND RUBBING IT IS STILL NOT BETTER,YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTION FOR HELPING GET IT BETTER. THANKS!

2/27/2009 - JAMES CHAMG

Response: Get medical attention sooner rather than later.

Question: what therapy can be done for fingers locking?

2/23/2009 - sandra

Response: Spliting can help decrease trigger finger.

Question: I started having burning at my thumb joint closest to wrist and sensational numbness that goes up to elbow and sometimes past the elbow,My hand seems to have gotten worse and tight.I continue to have this problem all the time now.I did have NCS done and I am going to go to hand specialist.What do you think.

2/21/2009 - Dory

Response: Your hand specialist will be able to guide you.

Question: About 2 mos ago i was admitted to the hospital after a cat bite to my left index knuckle. I received IV antibiotics & was release but had to return a week later for 4 more days of iv antibiotics. At that time an infectious disease dr. was afraid I had an infection down in knuckle but a hand specialist & my dr.at hospital decided it was just cellulitus & released me. The outside of the hand has healed just fine, but the knuckle itself & surrounding joint is swollen and red. Not extremely swollen/red but enough to know it isn't right. It doesn't really hurt but doesn't feel right. I've had low grade fever & not feeling very good but also just had sepsis a few months ago due to kidney stone blockage so my system has been thru alot. My dr. had told me not to be concerned unless I had fever over 102 or joint was really red & painful. Should I see another hand specialist & actually let them open it up this time? Thanks for your time

2/18/2009 - KATHY

Response: I would seek a second opinion - it can't hurt.

Question: I am scheduled for CMC excision arthroplasty in 2 weeks.
Is it necessary to insert a pin after replacing the trapizoid and wrapping with tendon? Is that procedure outdated?

2/18/2009 - Steve

Response: Some dr's do use the pin so no it is not outdated. I work with many surgeons who pin.

Question: i got an infection in the tip of my finger, they cut it out at the er and wrapped it then ive been going back and forth every other day for the dressing to be changed my antibiotics are done and i have no more apps how long should i leave the dressing on my fingr its been 11 days since the er visit?

2/16/2009 -

Response: You need to follow up with the Dr. as soon as possible to ensure you are on the right track and not getting into trouble.

Question: its been about a month now since i woke up with tingly, numbness on the tip of my right thumb. it happened daily until about 2 weeks ago, i now wake up to a thumb i cant bend! it lasted for only a few hours in the morning. now its the whole day that i cant bend my thumb on my own, but if i bend it with my other hand, it will bend with lots of pain. do you have any idea what is wrong with it? should i go to a doctor or chiropracter or just wait it out?

2/16/2009 - michelle

Response: I would not wait it out. Seek the attention of a dr. soon. Things like this tend to get worse and not better.

Question: why do i experience severe pain in my pinky finger when i barely tap any part of my finger or bed of nail? Pain is so severe it my feels like i shattered my finger

2/14/2009 - ida trevino

Response: It could be a variety of problems. It is best to get it checked sooner rather than later.

Question: my daughter broke her third metacarpal and only two of her fingers were taped together. will this heal her hand and how long will it take?

2/11/2009 - k dickinson

Response: It can heal and the results are dependent on the damage. Healing occurs over about 12 weeks.

Question: i got attact by two dogs almost a year and half ago, one dog bite my hand, a m r i shows i have chips in two knuckles. what can i do to relieve the pain, they swell up and get red and are hot to touch.what does hte future hold for my hand?

2/10/2009 - michelle moralesN

Response: You should contact a specialist in hands to receive some appropriate treatments.

Question: Both my hands from the base of my pinkie to the base of my wrist are swollen and very painful,any ideas?

2/10/2009 - Donna Umberger

Response: Can't help with this description - very vague.

Question: i have pins and neddles down the right hand side of my body what does this mean

2/10/2009 - john

Response: Could be a whole lot of things!

Question: old boxers fracture,1993.double break in 5th metacarpal.2 pins,then removed. now joint doesnt feel tight. occaisonally slips a little bit. 24 hr pain in tendon around joint andthrogh pinky and down metacarpal. some pain in elbow intermittently. saw hand dr., said mri and nerve conduction test were basically normal. pain intense. should i seek opinion at another clinic? also,what is efficacy of getting a metacarpal lenghthening procedure to get better feeling in joint? look forward to correspondence.

2/9/2009 - chris

Response: You need to determine if more surgery will outweigh the risks. Very often it does not.

Question: why is it that the nuckles on my husbands right hand only alwasy looked bruised.. they never go away, and he does not hit them on anything. he is right handed, and his hands are big too? what could cause it

2/7/2009 - sue mahlerwein

Response: Your guess is as good as mine.

Question: 2 months ago i have cutthe tendon and 1 nerve on my ring finger. i have been doing all the exercises and massages ,but still is very stiff i have to massage it for 20 minutes to be able to bend the finger by it self and also around the nerve area is swellon and when i take the cabon off after a while get swallen.will it eventualy get better or stay as it is?

2/6/2009 - h .karimi

Response: only time will tell. Have you been doing rehab?

Question: A week ago I caught my little finger between the boat and dock. the nuckle is still real tender, Why

2/5/2009 - helen

Response: It was only a week ago but if you are still quite sore it might be worth a trip to the dr. to make sure you have not done some more serious damage.

Question: i broke my right thumb just above the knuckle. I have been in therapy since august of '08. Despite therapy, I still have difficulty writing, opening jars, and have very little dexterity. It has an obvious bump and disfigurement to it.
what should I do?

2/5/2009 - christina

Response: A deformity can only be changed with surgical intervention. Therapy should assist you with your functional deficits. You might ask the therapist about adaptive equipment or splints to assist you.

Question: when i wake up in the morning i get ready and i go to put my rings on both ring fingers but my right hand lately seems to be thicker/swollen and is harder to put my ring on..how come?

2/4/2009 - lynn

Response: My guess would be as good as yours.

Question: I have been having moderate/sever pain in my wrist/ hand on the thumb side for about a week. The pain is horrible when I lift, apply more than a few pounds of pressure (hoisting myself out of a chair), or turn/open doors. I have had no swelling or bruising. I have a deep ache at the base of my thumb that comes and goes. I wrapped it in Ace bandages, and that made the ache worse. Could I have a scaphoid fracture or non-union?
P.s, I have full movement of my fingers

2/4/2009 - Jenna

Response: You could have a fx. but could have a multitude of other problems. Seek medical attention and find out what is wrong.

Question: i hurt my hand and my doc says its contusion, how do i heal my hand?

2/4/2009 - jesse

Response: Contuysions should heal but you would benefit from a session or two with a hand therapist to help guide you.

Question: After dislocating the little finger on my left hand, my Orthopaedist says that the finger may never get fully back to normal. Can you suggest some therapy?

2/3/2009 -

Response: You need to have a couple of visits with a hand specialist to get the proper instructions and therapy.

Question: i had glass cut injury at forearm 6 month back.physiotherapy programme was started after 1month
.till now icant grasp keyz,thumb opposition not complete last 2 fingers stay flexed.is it possible to regain functions back?if condition stay same what can be the future condition of hand?

2/1/2009 - nikee

Response: You potentially may need more surgery if your condition does not progress. These types of injuries can be devastating.

Question: I broke my finger had fx metacarpal bones precutaneous skeletal fixation, pins are out and now the finger hurts more than befor pinning, doc says fixation, how long is the healing time from this procedue

1/30/2009 - Pennie

Response: It will vary from person to person and from dr. to dr. On average after 12 weeks you will have significant healing.

Question: why i cant bend my ring finger and is swollen and it hurt also, what is the cause? and what is the cure for this? it's been a month now and it is not getting any better
thanks God bless

1/29/2009 -

Response: You could have a multitude of problems. I could not begin to guess by email.

Question: I recently had surgery on my right wrist, to releive radial nerve compression. three weeks later my lower arm is still numb, i also am getting tingling burning sensations when I try to do gentle excercises. Is this part of the normal healing process.

1/29/2009 -

Response: Nerves do take a while to get full recovery especially if compromised for a long time.

Question: I injured my I had to my hand. I had my 4th and 5th metacarpals dislocated and wedged into my hamate bone with a spit opening to the hamate. if I had any ulner nerve damage what are my chances of getting my grip strength back after fushion surgery

1/25/2009 - Brian

Response: I can't give you a percent but with good surgical intervention and rehab you can do quite well.

Question: I poke myself with a rusted pin. I cleaned it with peroxide and neosoporin. Do I need a tetnus shot? I havent had one in over 15 yrs. I dont want to get a Tetnus shot but if I need one I will. Please advise.

Thank you.

1/24/2009 - Ryan

Response: Yes!

Question: I fell down on the floor about 7 months ago. I injured my thumb and I can't bend it by the hand part of the thumb, but I can bend it a little by the knuckle part of my thumb. I have gone to the doctor who is a specialist. He gave me x-ray and mri on my thumb and he says that there is nothing broken or wrong with your thumb. He tells me to just give it some time for this type of injury. I even went to therapy as he suggested, but I did not keep it up as long as he said, so he said as long as I do it at home. I had stopped because it was still the same problem. My question to you is: " Will my Thumb ever get back right and what suggestions do you have that I can do or see to heal my thumb"? Now I can still do alot of things still with my thumb being the way it is, but I sometimes feel a little sharp pain shooting in by my knuckle of the thumb on up to close to my wrist. I can even open some things with it too, but I still want it to be the right way. Also, it is a little wider than the other thumb. I think that it might be swollen or some fluid.

1/23/2009 - rosalyn beard

Response: It might be time for a second opinion.

Question: I am a COTA employed by a school district. One student has difficult with web space and flexion of PIP. Do you have a product like a pencil in a small ball grip?

1/23/2009 -

Response: I am sorry we do not carry products - you can check with N.C medical

Question: I broke my wrist/forearm when I was 16. I was put in a cast to the shoulder for 4 weeks and a elbow cast for 2 more. I am now 21 and it hasn't bothered me since. I have continued to be active in my college soccer career and still no pain. Today, I have started to hit the weight room pretty hard and have been noticing a horrible pain when i grab an object. If i exert force on an object while my wrist is curled back towards me i feel pain throughout my whole wrist and forearm until i release the object and unclench my fingers. I have also began to notice it in everyday activities such as opening a door when i have to pull it towards me. what should i do

1/22/2009 -

Response: You need to see a hand specialist - you might have a ligament that is stretching out or something of that nature.

Question: Soon I will undergo a revision of a DIP fusion of my right index finger. How soon can I start with a CHT after my surgery?

1/20/2009 - Sandra

Response: That is surgeon dependent.

Question: I had surgery a year ago for a torn tfc. After surgery I have been unable to straighten my pinky finger. After 4 months of physical therapy it is still bent. My pinky feels "heavy" and there is pain. I can straighten it out with my other hand but not if I "tell" my brain to. Will more physical therapy correct this? Could I have damage to the tendon or nerve and if so what tests could I do to know or what can "fix" this?

1/19/2009 -

Response: The TFC has nothing to do with the 5th digit but you may have other issues relating to soft tissue or a variety of other things.

Question: IS COLLAGENESE INJECTIONS A GOOD ALTERNATIVE TO TENOLYSIS TO REMOVE SCAR ADHESIONS AFTER FINGER SURGERY

1/16/2009 -

Response: Newer studies are promising.

Question: I have been diagnosed with mild to severe arthritis in 1st joint of L thumb; hand doc recommends CMC arthoplasty. I have been doing some research, and cannot decide if this is right for me; the research is mixed whether this is a good option or not. I had a cortisone injection 2 weeks ago, and am having some relief. I need to decide within the next 2 weeks to have the CMC surgery or not. Pain now is intermittent, when I overuse the joint, it hurts. Before the injection, the pain was chronic, a 5 out of 10. What would you recommend? How long does the injection work?

1/15/2009 -

Response: Why don't you try splinting first? Can't hurt!

Question: For the past few months, on waking, I cannot straighten my ring finger of my right hand. I have pain in my hand wrist and forearm up to the elbow. I have no lumps or puckering in the hand or palm. Can you suggest what may be the problem.

1/14/2009 -

Response: I couldn’t guess - please get it assessed by a dr.

Question: Two months ago I had Carpometacarpal arthroplasty w/ stabilization and am now two weeks without any splinting. I was given 2 hand exercises to do after the cast was removed but before the splint was no longer necessary. One was to move my thumb to the base of my little finger and the other was to move thumb up while my palm was facing up. After the splint was no longer necessary I was told I could return to normal activities as tolerated and no hand therapy exercises were given. My wrist aches and there isswelling over the area where the trapezium bone was removed. Is this common since I've only been out of the splint 2 weeks? Are there any more hand exercises I could be doing? I'm currently trying to manage the pain with NSAIDs and heat and cold compresses. A couple of times I took the oxycodone that was Rx'd for me because I couldn't sleep.
Any advice will be appeciated.

1/13/2009 - n

Response: Another visit to hand therapy might be helpful to upgrade your home program.

Question: how long will my recovery be if i get surgery on my radius bone in my hand, they will be putting a plate in it and they said that i will be in surgery for an hour; do they take out the plate later on after the surgery or does it stay in my hand forever? thanks

1/12/2009 -

Response: Depends on type of surgery as to recovery. Plates sometimes do stay permanently.

Question: The fingertips of my right thumb and forefinger are swollen, discolored (almost looks bruised)sore and itchy to the touch. There's been no injury or open wound to either. Sometimes slightly colder than the other fingers. It happened once after Thanksgiving (lasted approx two weeks) and again after New Years (on-going). Any suggestions?

1/9/2009 -

Response: Get a medical work-up

Question: pinky finger and left side of ring finger and left side of palm on left hand are numb

1/8/2009 -

Response: Have your ulnar nerve checked out

Question: I had a cmc arthroplasty LRTI 4 weeks ago and had a short thumb splint put on after my cast was removed 2 weeks ago and was told to start gentle rom for my thumb and arom for my wrist several times a day, otherwise remain in my splnt. Now they told me to cut back on exercise for my thumb and made a splnt that supports my wrist and thumb. Should I be concerned? My swelling has gone down since the cast was removed and my pain is minimal, but I am worried that they have cut back on my activities.

1/7/2009 - Alexis

Response: I would ask why they cut back. Perhaps you were moving a bit too much and they were worried about stability?

Question: About a month ago, I experienced weakness in my right arm and hand (dominant). Went to a neuro appt and he set me up for an MRI. Still have 2 weeks before appt. I have tingling and burning sensation across my right shoulder blade and some on my left; no pain; severely decreased ROM in my right hand. Can't write, type, grasp, hand tends to curl and will not flatten etc... No wrist pain. Noticed when I lay my arm on the sofa it tends to fall asleep. No trauma associated w/problem. Pinched nerve? Carpal Tunnel?
Thank you -

1/3/2009 -

Response: I could not guess but it sounds like nerve involvement for sure

Question: one week ago i have my pip joints fused in the right hand, still got the pins in for another 7 weeks. My hand keeps turning purple and feels like needles. Is this normal? And will the swelling go down some before the 7 pins are removed from my fingers?

1/2/2009 - Jaime

Response: This is not normal and should be addressed by your dr. right away.

Question: Bruising and numbness in pinky finger, no injury that I no of??

1/2/2009 - Bobby

Response: Could be a bunch of different things. Consult a medical proffessional.

Question: I had an avulsion fraction of my pinky of my right hand. I've had OT for 3 months. It still hurts. I broke in in August , it's now Jan 1st. Is that normal? Should I go back to the Dr.

1/1/2009 -

Response: I would get a follow-up from the Dr. But it is not unusal for these types injuries to be sore for 6 mths or longer.

Question: I had a proximal row carpectomy performed on me 2 days ago. The pain medications I was given are not helping, I have swelling that keeps getting worse and am experiencing tingling and numbness in my fingers. Is this normal and how long should these syptoms last? Also, when is it a good idea to call the doctor in regards to the problems I am having? Thank you

1/1/2009 - Kristina

Response: I would call ASAP. You can have serious concerns and issues with pain and swelling that might cause permanent damage. Better safe than sorry.

Question: I have had three injections in my left elbow. I looks as if debridement and transpositioning of the ulnar nerve will need to be done. Im really concerned that I may loose my grip on my writing hand. I work with my hand quite often with painting, signatures, so on so on. What can I do to recovery fast and precautions?

12/31/2008 - Trendt

Response: Recovery from surgery is never fast. You will have to plan 6 weeks to several months for recovery.

Question: what is the good therapy for my wrist that dislocated one month ago...?

12/31/2008 - randolf

Response: See a hand specialist for a home exercise program.

Question: well i woke up one day my whole arm was numb but for some reason its been numb for the past 2 weeks sometime i lay my elbow on the table and theres a small sensation i can move it perfectly and grip but when i type i get this tingly sensation and a little pain behind my arm thats it please help me if you can im worried

12/30/2008 -

Response: I would go for a visit to a dr. this can be a hand/arm issue or it can be coming from your neck. You need to determine the area that is injured.

Question: Is there a resource for do it yourself therapy post arthroplasty ?

12/30/2008 - Harriet

Response: You might check out ASSH.org to see if they have any brochures but a visit or two to a hand therapist will be helpful.

Question: the fingers on my right hand keep going tingly and pins and needles and when i lie down in bed they pain and go numb ???what is this and why is this happening

12/28/2008 -

Response: Could be a lot of reasons - I would seek a medical opinion.

Question: I have weakness in gripping and pain in the base thumb joints especially if my hand including the thumb is squeezed slighly. turning a page is sometimes enough to make my whimper. Is it arthritus or cartelage?

12/28/2008 - sheila whittam

Response: Could be osteoarthritis in your first joint and it can be treated with a variety of methods.

Question: For about a year now I have, intermittently experienced a stabbing, shooting pain in my right thumb starting at the cuticle area going back toward the base of the thumb. Now the stabbing/shooting pain never stops. It is really wearing on me, feels as if my thumb is being shut in a drawer repeatedly. What could this be?

12/25/2008 - Tammara Holmes

Response: I couldn’t guess but you can rest assured that if you seek the opinion of a qualified professional you should have a diagnosis.

Question: if you break your scaphoid bone will you have a bump below your thumb close to your wrist?

12/22/2008 - ashley higgins

Response: You might

Question: In Sept. an Exacto Knife cut the tip of my left ring finger all the way down to my cuticle.I managed to Dr. it up myself.Now three months later my pinky is numb,ache and hard to straighten,ring finger is numb,my palm to.Its cold somtimes and I notice my fingers go blue.It seems like my left hand doesnt want to function like it used to.

12/21/2008 - DAWN

Response: You might have cut tendons or nerves or both. Get checked as soon as possible.

Question: for the past week my little finger and one next to it..has had numb feeling and tingling which goes up just past my wrist...it does hurt it just wont go away.

12/21/2008 -

Response: that can be the ulnar nerve causing that or it could be from your neck so it is worth getting it evaluated before it causes more problems.

Question: The skin on the back of my left hand is slightly numb to touch. If I make a fist and then attemp to roll my hand forward there is a great amount of pain. It feel like needles pulling my skin apart. This is also on my left foot. Previuosly it was my right hand but that seems to have gone. What could this possibly be? Thanks

12/19/2008 - Larry

Response: could be a multitude of things. I would be guessing if I answered this.

Question: I dislocated my middle finger of the right hand at the PIP joint 7 weeks ago. It was reduced in the emergency room and the x-rays that followed showed no fractures. I was splinted for about 2 weeks and then encouraged by 2 different orthopedic hand specialists to keep moving the finger as much as possible to ensure range of motion is not limited in the healing process. I have incredible swelling isolated at the joint, it does not extend into the rest of the hand, but I seem to have reached a stand still in progress. If anything, the swelling at the PIP joint is more severe than ever. I have at best 80% flexion and 20% short of full extension. Is this normal recovery? I am seeing a physical therapist who seems concerned about the recovery process and swelling. I just want to feel better.

12/17/2008 - laurie

Response: Hopefully she is aggressively working on the swelling as this is most important early on.

Question: I hit something with my right hand, it has swollen and it is some waht sore. I can not move my pinkie finger but oh so far then it hurts realy bad? Did i maybe break something?

12/17/2008 - Corey

Response: Only an X-ray can tell you that!

Question: Im a Guitar player who just started playing pro again about six months ago after about 2 years of not playing that much.I just learned a difficult to with lots of bar chords and for about t weeks now iv being having like a sharp pain on the underside of mt index finger can still play but it hurts still.It almost feels like a nerve or bruised bone.

12/15/2008 - brad

Response: I would get it checked. Better safe than sorry.

Question: My boyfriend's pinky finger turns white every time it is exposed to cold weather. at first it was just one finger, now it is both fingers although the right one is considerably worse. What is the cause of this, or things I may be able to research futher?

12/15/2008 - Stephanie

Response: IT might be Raynauds Disease. You can look it up on line and see if it looks like that.

Question: 2 weeks ago i fell on my dominant hand i waited a week and went to doctor. they x rayed it said its not broken but it hurts bad still. my middle finger,ring finger and pinky was injured when i fell my fingers bent backward.my palm was bruised as well . now they put a splint on the ring finger and taped the ring and pinky finger together wrapped with and ace bandage.i cant bend them without pain cant close my hand at all i can make a c shapewith pain do you know if i might have damaged anything like my ligaments or tendons?

12/12/2008 - edna

Response: yes you likely did damage the other structures and they can take a long time to heal. You should see a hand therapist for a consult.

Question: Myhands are very stiff and I need to regain mobility

12/12/2008 - Jerre

Response: a good hand therapist will be able to guide you.

Question: I had hurt my right pinky finger a month ago. It doesn't hurt to bend however it does hurt when I put pressure on it in a downward motion or when I grab things or write. What might it be? I cannot find a finger brace at any of the local pharmacies.

12/10/2008 - Christie

Response: I am not sure it is a brace you need. It is best to seek a consult with a specialist to know what you are dealing with before you start to immobilize your finger.

Question: I injured the last knuckle on my pinky finger two weeks prior to Thanksgiving while playing touch football. The end of my pinky is bend downward and is still red, now almost 6 weeks later. I didn't go to the doc as it wasn't unbearable pain. Is this dislocated or does it sound broken?

12/10/2008 - Sarah

Response: It might be a mallet finger. Look it up as this is damage to the tendon and medical intervention is required. Please visit a Dr. sooner rather than later as this if it is a mallet, is important to see a dr. early.

Question: I had this bruise on the area between my thumb and index finger a couple of days ago and when I showed my mom she noticed that there was a bump there. Im not sure if it is a bone or what but there is a hard surface under that area of skin. Also, on the inside of my thumb, where it is usually a fatty area, there is a bump under my skin. What could I have done to my hand?

12/9/2008 -

Response: It might be ganglions. Get them checked by a hand surgeon.

Question: My fiancé recently had her hand slammed in a front door, and her left index and middle finger have fairly deep lacerations across each of the farthest joints/knuckles from the hand. We went to the ER and she now has 5 stitches in each finger and must keep them bandaged until the 19th. The doctor was hopeful for full recovery and mobility after they heal, but she is experiencing mild numbness on the middle finger's pad (fingerprint) just above the cut. My fiancé is an avid clarinetist and plans to attend medical school, so any information or advice on how to maximize the feeling and functionality of her middle finger would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jeremy H.

12/8/2008 - Jeremy

Response: IT is best to consult with a hand surgeon to ensure no nerve damage occurred and if it did to address it earlier rather than later.

Question: I had surgery done in the palm of my hands. Could you please tell me how I can soften up the stitches. They are very hard and hurt everytime I touch them somehow.

12/7/2008 - Toni Menard

Response: you can soften the scar after the stiches are out with massage but you should leave it alone while the stiches are in.

Question: I'm 52 and live in the Dominican Republic - 5 wks ago a car crash left me with radius fracture to my left wrist and broken 1st finger in the same hand below the knuckle, not in the actual finger which protrudes from the hand but close to the base of my thumb - they put 2" pins in the wrist bone which were removed after 3 wks and metal supports around the bone in my hand which will stay there. Partial cast and bandage was changed every few days and fully removed after 4 wks. The problem I have is serious swelling especially at the end of each day. I have restricted movement of all my fingers but am far from making a fist. My hand is sensitive to cold and feels heavy and I keep elevated for relief. The back of my hand is full with stretched skin and my fingers are like fat sausages. Thanks - you have a great site! - Will the swelling ever go away? Les.

12/6/2008 - Les Pye

Response: Swelling can take months to resolve but it is important to work on it early. A hand therapist can give you edema gloves and wraps to assist with reduction of swelling and special massage programs. Don't wait get in quick.

Question: Best treatment approach for complex reginonal pain syndrome (CRPS) in distal finger, symptoms are mild,
going to see pain specialist for possible stellate ganglion block.....doing lots of weightbearing through
hand. Any input would be appreciated
Thank Shawn

12/5/2008 - Shawn

Response: Best tx. Will vary for each patient. Some do great with nerve blocks, others use stimulators, some benefit from a variety of modalties.

Question: my right hand often feels like it is asleep and my fingers often feel numb, i am pregnat and they told me it was because of sodium so i cut it out of my diet completely, but it has just seemed to worsen? what is it from, anyone know?

12/4/2008 - christina

Response: It might be carpal tunnel. This is common in pregnancy. Ask you dr. to test you for this.

Question: I broke my pinky finger at the second knuckle 12 days ago. I've kept it splinted and wonder when I need to start moving it a bit--my dr. said open and close my hand at two weeks--but to keep it splinted for 6 weeks. Will moving it so soon be problematic?

12/4/2008 - sandi

Response: 12 days vs 14 days is pretty close. If you are concerned call the dr. to confirm it is o.k to move a bit earlier.

Question: I broke my third and fourth fingers on left hand sept 20th, then had surgery (pins were put in both fingers at the bottom --they were severely broken at bottom near knuckles), now with one month of phyisical therapy behind me, my 4rth finger (ring finger) will not straighten (bent always at the middle), and neither finger will bend on their own normally. How long could complete healing take and will further surgery be needed? (my third finger also has numbness)

12/3/2008 - Kim

Response: Therapy might involve corrective splinting. If you do not make progress after 6 mths. more surgery might be an option.

Question: yes my boy friend cut the tip off his finger off and the one of the stich came out will his finger come off

12/3/2008 - Samantha

Response: one stich out can be o.k - call the dr. and get it checked!

Question: For about a month now, the tendon (ligament?) between my right thumb and my hand has been very sore. Sore to the point where I can't cut things with scissors, etc. It is worst in the morning but now is fairly bad throughout the day. Is this the sort of thing that will go away on it's own?

12/2/2008 - Karolyn

Response: doesn't sound like it will go away on its own… get it checked!

Question: I recently hurt my pinky playing guitar. I just did a bit too much of a stretch with it and felt a bit of pain down the hand, as if i'd pulled a tendon or something. That was about 2 weeks ago. It doesn't hurt to move my pinky, although I'll get a fairly sharp pain down the fleshy pinky side of my hand if i try too much of a stretch. The thing that i find strange is that the outside of my pinky knuckle hurts if i put pressure on it, such as if it's resting on the table. It has got a little better i think, it's kind of hard to tell though. Advice would be appreciated.

12/1/2008 - Gaz

Response: that is a complex sounding issue. It is best to seek medical attention early on to avoid long term complications.

Question: What is the prognosis to continue bowling after having LRTI. Currently four months post surgery.

11/30/2008 - Dan

Response: you should be able to bowl again - between 6 mths to a year post! Check with the dr. to make sure he/she is ok with it.

Question: I broke my fifth metacarpal (boxers fracture) about 2 months ago. The doctor did a non surgical reduction and casted it. Since I took my cast off my pinky finger has been bent at the finger knuckle. If I pull on the finger I can straighten it. How ever it goes back to its original bent position when I quit pulling on it. What can I do to fix this because I play the piano and it has been bothering my playing

11/26/2008 - Mark

Response: I would go back and make sure it is healed in the right position.

Question: I cut my index finger two weeks ago just above the crease where my finger meets my hand. I have been evaluated and am scheduled for surgery next Tuesday for dital nerve repair; possible flexor tendon repair; exploration. I currently have 8mm numbness. What would happen if no surgery was done? Would the nerves not heal on their own eventually?

11/26/2008 - Rhonda

Response: If the nerves are cut they will not heal on their own - they need to be repaired!

Question: i had cut my tendons in my left ring and pinky fingers in 2004 did surgery to correct it but my pinky cannot straighten and my ring finger cannot bend properly and i have been experiencing numbness and pins and needles i can hardly grip anything in my left hand what can i do

11/24/2008 - patiecia stanley

Response: You will likely need more surgery to get your hand functional again.

Question: i cut my hand right above my knuckel i went to the er and was stiched up, but the other day while picking up my baby i heard something snap and flet a sharp pain on my forearm and right after that my ring finger went limp, how bad is itjust based on the info I will be going to the dr on next week! Can anyone give me any car advise so the injury does get any worse?

11/24/2008 - Dee

Response: see the dr. right away - the tendon may have ruptured and you need urgent care.

Question: I HAD LRTI SURGERY ON MY RIGHT THUMB ON 9/28/08. I HAVE STARTED THERAPY. MY FINGERS ARE SO SWOLLEN I CAN'T BEND THEM. IS THIS NORMAL AND HOW LONG WILL IT LAST.

11/24/2008 -

Response: swelling can last for 6 mths or longer. This procedure has a long recovery and that is normal.

Question: my wrist has been bothering me now for about two months, I cant think of anything I did for it to hurt like this. its not unbearable or anything, but when I move it back its uncomfortable and a little painfull. my fingers dont hurt at all and I still function. what could be the problem ?

11/22/2008 - Samantha S

Response: I wish I could tell you but it can such a multitide of things I couldn’t guess. You should see a dr. to determine what might be going on.

Question: I lacerated my hand in the webbing between the thumb and first finger. The hospitol sewed me up without doing a nerve test. 3 weeks later I had surgery to repair the nerve, and was sent back to work 28 days after the surgery with no restrictions. I have worked with pain for five months in my hand, it is like having your funny bone in the palm of your hand(6 months has passed in between surgery and re-eval). The surgery did not take, and they want to do another procedure. they want to stump the nerve in my hand or do a conduit procedure. Now my question is which procedure is better. My hand has already showed that it has not taking to being repaired, but I also do not want to go through life with no feeling on half of my 1st finger.

11/20/2008 - Mike Bova

Response: I would get 2 or 3 opinions before going forward.

Question: I'm a 48 year old women looking for advise on how to increase my blood circulation to my arms, feet and hands.
I've woken up for years with my arms completely numb although it goes away with movement.
For as long back as I can remember (I'm 48) my feet turn purple when I'm sitting in a chair or sitting with my knees folded.
And most recently I'm experiencing numbness in my pinky & ring finger on my left hand for no apparent reason. this began a couple of weeks ago with varying degrees of numbness for short periods of time (hour or so)then it would go away, although now for the last couple of days the numbness has remained constant.

What can I do to help the numbness stop?

Kindly,
Sandi

11/19/2008 - Sandi

Response: You need a detailed medical work-up. This can be related to a lot of disorders.

Question: hey ill make it simple... i broke my hand 2 mouth ago.. the 5th finger "Pinky". the tip is swellin "MAllet" i think is call.. & i cant make a fist.. the pinky is left out...example= from the tip.of finger the first joint swellin. 2nd joint i cant move down..but the 3rd "pinky knuck" is fine,, WAT could i do????

11/18/2008 - DAN

Response: You need to be treated with splinting if you have a mallet finger.

Question: My middle finger on right had feels swollen it burns and pad is sore to touch.Can not close finger to make a total fist in morning finger is really stiff

11/18/2008 - Jimmy

Response: You need to have this evaluated. If it is an infection you can have some serious consequences.

Question: I wrote back on 10/2, 5 weeks post CMC arthoplasty, about the sensitivity around the incision. Your advice was great, I saw an excellent hand therapist and she has helped me immensely. It is 11 weeks since my surgery and I am doing well, albeit for the stiffness. I assume the stiffness will eventually work itself out? Everyone says to be patient but it's hard.

11/17/2008 - Patty

Response: Yes it can take 6 mths or longer for the stiffness and swelling to resolve. It is a long recovery procedure.

Question: I have recently been diagnosed with arthritis of the L hand CMC joint,x-ray report says I have minor subluxation of the CMC joint. How can I stop it from becoming more severe? I am a semi-professional musician & teacher & want to know what kind of impact this is going to have on playing & teaching guitar. Could you also let me know about non- surgical treatment options.
Thanks,
Dave.

11/14/2008 - David Hoskin

Response: splinting is helpful to prevent further deformity and some exercises can be helpful but you must be very careful to do the proper ones. You should seek the help of an excellent hand clinician.

Question: i dislocated my right ring finger,14 days ago, what excersises could i do. i am having a hard time making a fist with that finger. i saw a docter who re-set it, but did not see a therapist because of travel plans.

11/14/2008 - ken mousseau

Response: if you can have a one time visit with therapy that would be great to get a home program!

Question: I crushed my hand in a hydraulic wood splitter, how long before the swelling goes down. had 1 broke finger which is still in line. Has been 4 weeks and doctor is sending me too physical therapy but hae little movement in most of my hand do to swelling

11/13/2008 - Jo Taylor

Response: The therapist can work on your swelling - swelling can last for 6 mths to a year but needs to be controlled.

Question: I have a pretty standard boxer's fracture with a 45 degree angulation. I was splinted (pinkie only with 3 fingers and thumb exposed) only 5 days ago. The pinkie is curved downward with a pin throuhg the knuckle. I have an office job and type frequently, and I have been known to play the occasional computer game (esp. because no basketball now for four weeks). Since my wrist is locked by the splint, typing with my left hand is awkward and my elbow is cocked to the side and my index and ring finger do the left side of the keyboard. I have been getting a pretty substantial pain in the anterior lateral area (palmaris longus?). I suspect it is from the unusual poistion my left elbow is cocked in. My questions is, is this muscle fatigue or am I hurting tendons/lingaments (i.e. carpal tunnel or simialar) ? How concerned should I be? I can cut down on computer games but not working related typing without a real good medical reason and I have the rest of this month like this. Any advice?

11/10/2008 -

Response: If it hurts, don't do it! Take it easy while you heal. Rest and enjoy taking a break for a month.

Question: i hurt my hand last week, went to a&e, told that it could be a chipped bone, not sure if its broken, but pain is getting worse and fingers are very sore and stiff, Any Answers for me, please

11/10/2008 - lisa

Response: A chip is a break. It takes weeks for these types of injuries to heal.

Question: I have left arm proximinal nerve palsy,can I do stretches with my add. therapy,does it help or not?I do weight lifts, rubber stuff strethes,rubber bands,putty and have gain much of my ROM back.Can I do isometric ex.Do they help?Should I play my guitar as an ex.?

11/10/2008 - clair

Response: Proximal nerve palsy is a general statement and I am not sure exactly what you mean. You should do your exercises/stretches as prescribed by your medical proffesionals.

Question: I have a boxer's fracture and i am going to cut my cast off in four weeks myself .the doctor said six weeks but i cant wait I need to work and support my family. do you think 2 weeks early will make that big a deal?

11/9/2008 - TJ

Response: I would see the dr. 2 weeks early and have him/her re-xray and see how you are healing to see if you can come out of cast early. They will be your judge. Explain your situation. That will be helpful.

Question: I dislocated my index finger while in Mexico. They re-set it and put a splint on it. Are there excercises I can do to help the healing process. It's been 2 weeks now.

11/8/2008 -

Response: The exercises will depend on the type of dislocation. See a specialist as soon as you can.

Question: I had the tip of my index finger amputated and i am looking for products like gloves or covers for the hand or finger tip..do you know where i can go to find these or a web site to look and purchase items for my hand or finger tip

11/8/2008 - christy

Response: Digi gel caps are great. Here is a link to a site that has them:
http://www.silipos.com/c_prod_detail.asp?cat=hf&use=&site_area=f&prodsecid=30x95

Question: I recenly had a laceration to my medial nerve and flexor tendon. they were repaired with surgery. but now three months later i am having a difficult time moving my finger and thumb. they have limited mobility they aren't very flexable and they have started developeing deformities in the knuckles. can you please explain to me why my fingers and knuckles are defected when the injury was infact in on my wrist? my thumb and index finger were not injured.

11/8/2008 - cyndee weir

Response: The median nerve makes the thumb index and middle fingers move and have sensation. So damage to this nerve will affect these fingers. Hopefully you are getting good therapy and will have some improved function. If not more surgery may be needed at some point.

Question: Tendon transfer was done on right hand 2-5 and thumb was reinserted. Casted for three weeks, then splinted. Have been in therapy sinc 9/15/08, doing well, except my hand keeps wanting to "jump" up. Dr. said this was a nerve issue that keeps firing and has put on a lighter cast to stop this "jumping" nerve. He feels this will calm the nerve. I never had this before the surgery. Is this a sucessful procedure>

11/7/2008 -

Response: I am not familiar with what you are describing but nerves can do things such as you described.

Question: i developed an infection after finger surgery 8 weeks ago. the finger is still swollen and seems to be getting more purple and is still swollen. could this be from therapy or is it a cause for concern.

11/6/2008 -

Response: I would get it checked by your dr. or therapist as it is concerning.

Question: I WAS PLAYING BASKTEBALL AND I ENDED UP PULLING MY PINKY FINGER ALL THE WAY BACK TO MY WRIST. THE PINKY FINGER WAS FRACTURE AND DISLOCATED. BUT NOW TWO WEEKS FATER TAKING THE CASS OFF I CAN'T BEND THE PINKY FINGER OR AND HAVE LITTLE MOVEMENT ON THAT FINGER. WHAT KIND OF exercise OR TREATMENT CAN I DO TO GET MY FINGER BACK TO NORMAL?

11/6/2008 - mike diaz

Response: You need a consult with a local therapist. These are complicated injuries and need therapy to maximize the outcomes.

Question: i had surgery on my left side of my hand .Now every morning my ring finger is hurting and my hole left hand stiff. What can that be?

11/5/2008 - leclerc francois

Response: Stiffness is common after surgery. You should ask your treating medical person to make sure nothing is unusal with your case.

Question: i was playing basketball today and went to catch a ball but my middle finger went back to far. It went slightly redder and swollen. Now it hurts when i strainghtern it or bend it up it to a ball and has gone purplely underneath. what should i do? go A&E or wait for doctors to open in morning

11/5/2008 - sophie

Response: I would only go to ER if I had a lot of pain and couldn't wait as my co-pay is higher at ER but if it was very sore I would go to ER and not wait. Only you can be the judge of how you are feeling right now.

Question: i slammed my the tip of my finger in the door a just now. how do i treat it, and will the fingernail remain discolored?

11/4/2008 - ron

Response: Fingernail damage can last for a very long time. If you are concerned you should see a Dr. to check this out.

Question: My son suffered ulnar nerve damage above the elbow, had subsequent nerve grafting and transpositioning done with little effect. The surgeons are talking about doing a 'tenoplasty' to hopefully increase the grip strength in the effected hand. What does this involve both from a surgical and rehabilitation point of view?

11/2/2008 - Eleanor Dick

Response: That is a complicated process that is done if the nerve is not performing as was hoped after the procedure. The tenoplasty will help give the hand overall stability and should help to assist with function.

Question: I jammed the bottom half of my finger in a door this morning and it's become numb, with a tingling and burning sensation. It's also slightly swollen and cold to the touch. Is there reason to see a doctor or should i just wait it out.

10/29/2008 -

Response: Always better safe than sorry. See a dr. at least your primary for a quick x-ray.

Question: every morning when i get up i fell my left hand stiff what can that be?

10/29/2008 - samuel duboi

Response: Could be just about anything. Would need a LOT more info to help you.

Question: Hi on aug 22 i was trying to put down handle on suite case the metel one that closes in on suit case and it slamed down on my left hand middle finger oh boy did it hurt! it didnt swell but it still hurts to this day and i cant make a fist with it when i wake up in the morning its sooo sore! cold i have broke a nuckel? its not swollen but sure hurts alot!

10/28/2008 - tamm

Response: You might have broken it but most likely you damaged the soft tissue which can be very painful. I am a believer in better to check it out early and not wait till you do have a real problem.

Question: I had a Proximal Row Carpectomy (PRC) following a perilunate dislocation in June, and finally getting some function out of my wrist. Can you recommend exercises for fore-arm strengthening? anything without too much strain on the wrist (dumbells work fine for me but are getting mundane).

10/28/2008 - Tenny

Response: How about getting some putty and theraband! You can do a lot with both of those.

Question: I often get these sharp pains at the tips of my fingers between the finger and fingernail. I am not sure why it happens when it happens, I just know it hurts. As far as I know I have never done anything to my hands. I just want to make sure there is nothing seriously wrong. This has been going on for years.

10/25/2008 -

Response: I have no idea what that might be!

Question: my left wrist joint pain, i consulted hosmat bangalore, took xray to find no bone problem, done physyotheraphy for 10 days, after 7th day pain reduced then again severe pain, since 6 months suffering, doctor told to go for minor operation of nerve. kindly let me know solution to come out of pain. thank you.

10/25/2008 - bopaiah ca

Response: Perhaps they feel it is carpal tunnel? That nerve crosses the wrist and is commonly injured. But is could be the ulnar or radial nerves also.

Question: Hi,
While searching for hand therapy material/tips online, I came across your website.
I had a right-wrist (upper part) surgery about 9 years ago when I cut 5 of the tendons. After the surgery, I followed a month long therapy. Today I feel I may not have done something correctly or my therapist might have missed something. I cannot lift my middle and ring finger when I rest my palm facing down on a flat surface. For example, if I try to make a hand gesture for peace, my middle finger does not lift up.
What exercises can I do to get the strength back on my fingers? Is it oo late to get them back because it's been more than 9 years already?
Thank You in advance for your response.

10/25/2008 -

Response: You might need more surgery to correct this type of imbalance this many years later.

Question: I broke my wrist and snapped my tendons when i was 15. I had a cast up to my elbow for about 4 weeks but once it came off i knew it hadnt heeled i told them but no one seemed interested (i was seen by mostly student doctors during this period) two years on i started to have stiffness in my wrist and fingers . I am now 21 and for the past two years i have been in almost constant pain. I recently got a cortisone injection into the tendons in my wrist for the first week it was very painful but this died down after a while i never had any relief from getting the injection they actually made it worse. 3 months on my wrist is worse and the skin on my hand has gone very thin and white i can still actually see two red marks where the injections where and around these i have a red rash. It also seems to affected the veins on my hand some days these can be very thin like wire and other days they are very swollen and pop out between the bones making me very uncomfortable. I have never been diagnosed with whatever is causing my wrist/hand to be like this even after half a dozen trips to the doctor. I dont know where to go from here as the pain is unbearable most nights. please help if you have any advice. Thank you

10/24/2008 - christine

Response: You might ask your dr. if he/she feels you might have CRPS or RSD. You need to see a specialist in hands or pain to assist you.

Question: I dislocated my lunate and fractured my forearm on my dirtbike. I landed really hard and the impact from the handlebars into my palm is what did it. I had surgery and spent 6 weeks in a cast. Had an other surgery to remove my pins. I am 4 weeks into therapy and havn't seen much improvement. I have actually lost 5 degrees of motion from last week. My therapist said that this is his first lunate dislocation. I feel like they are not doing much with my wrist. I have little pain though. Should I try to find a therapist that knows more about my injury and where would I find one? My doctor told me that I will not get full range of motion in my wrist. Is there any chance that I may get full motion back.

10/23/2008 -

Response: You might not want full motion back as this might ruin the repair that was done. We sometimes want a little loss of motion to provide stability to reconstructed ligaments in the wrist.

Question: I was in a bad car wreck on 1 Aug. 2008. All my fingers on left hand were badly jammed when my hand was slammed into the dashboard on impact. It's my left hand which is my dominant hand. After a week the fingers healed but the thumb has not. It's very stiff and painful. X-rays and MRI were normal. They thought I had trigger finger and did surgery but 3 weeks out still no improvement. I do surgery for a living and have not been able to do since the accident. I have to wear a brace and have to take pain medicine every day due to the chronic pain. Hand therapy has also showed no improvement. What could be causing this pain and stiffness and is there any hope for a recovery at this point? I am getting desperate. I am 36 yrs old and my life has been greatly altered. Please help if you have any advice.

10/18/2008 - kendra

Response: Have you been evaluated for CRPS/RSD?

Question: I had an accident three months ago where my flexor tendon was partially severed along with my nerve which was completely severed. the nerve was the nerve that is responcible for the sensation to my thumb and index finger. My doctor repaired the tendon and the nerve. he didn't prescribe theropy until six weeks after surgery. It has been three months sence my surgery and I regained some sensation in my thumb and index finger. however there is still a great deal of burning pain from stretching and still some numbness. my index finger can not straighten all the way and can not close all the way. my thumb has very limited range of motion . my nuckles are starting to become deformed and swollen.And as time goes on I feel as though my movement is becoming more limited rather then improving. can you please give me some idea as to what could be the possible cause for this to be happening? sincerely, cyndee weir

10/17/2008 - cyndee

Response: You need to check with your therapist to see what you need to modify in your program to ensure that you will have the best outcome. You might end up needing more surgery as this is not uncommon.

Question: 2 months ago i had surgery on my little finger. later an infection developed. it was drained 2 times surgically. now the knuckle is swollen altho it seems rather hard. is this normal. when can i expect this to improve and get back to a more normal size?

10/17/2008 - MIKE

Response: swelling can last 6 mths to a year

Question: I had jammed the tip of my pinky and had I had iced it right away when it had happened but haven't since. It it still swollen and this happened about a week ago. It doesn't hurt as bad, but will the swelling go down?

10/14/2008 - Katlyn

Response: swelling can last for months. If you are at all concerned you should seek medical attention early rather than later as ligament injuries can go undetected.

Question: do broken knuckles grow back

10/14/2008 -

Response: Broken knuckles do mend if properly fixed!

Question: sometime,s i get a pain in 1 of my finger,s like a nerve pain which can last anythin from 1 to a few hour,s when it goes it always leave,s a bruise last night i had this pain in the parm of my hand an today i have a big bruise,every now an then i get a shootin pain an the bruise goes bigger

10/14/2008 - karen

Response: sounds like a trip to your local doc might be a good place to start on this one

Question: I am needing some physical therapy exercises for the pip joint of my pinky finger.

10/13/2008 - w

Response: can you get a one time referral for hand therapy?

Question: 59 yr old female with bilateral osteoarthritis of thumbs with web space contracture. Trapizum joint repalacement on R 16 years ago. No pain on R But contracted web space -limiting grip and decreased strength L hand base of thumb swollen, painful and contracted web space limiting dexterity of hand. Any recommendations for surgical interventions. Any recommendations for hand therapy to increase web space.
Hand have marked deformity.

10/12/2008 -

Response: Sometimes a webspace splint can help improve the webspace but if it is a bone change the splint wont help and surgical intervention would be required.

Question: what is a wrist ganglion and is there treatment for it

10/11/2008 - dave

Response: A wrist gaglion is excessive cell growth and it can be surgically removed if it is painful or interferes with function.

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.

Question: I had cut my hand a few months ago on the part where the thumb meets the hand and i had to get 6 stitches i was told everything was find but yet i still have a pain where the scar is and it changes colour and is raised and its verry itchey, any advice i just want to know if this is normal.

10/9/2008 - Julie

Response: it is not unusal but it should be treated

Question: how do i cure a sprained pinky finger

10/8/2008 - luis

Response: depends on what is actually damaged

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Question: i broke my middle finger by doing a front hand spring how long should i keep my splint on for?

9/15/2008 - brad

Response: it depends on many factors. I would ask your dr.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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?

8/20/2008 - Patric e

Response: This is vague - it could a lot of different things.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Question: Hey girls,
I've got a nice one for you. Since about senior year of high school, approx. 6 years ago, I have no been able to fully straighten my elbows. The problem is bilateral and it appears that my elbows have a slight end feel. I did not take notice to this until someone mentioned it to me about 4 years ago. I say that this has been ongoing since my senior year in high school because I did take notice that when I played baseball (played for 13 years) that my throws never went completely straight my senior year. When thinking about it, my throws probably did not go straight, because I could not fully extend my arm.
I initially thought my arm did not go straight because of baseball, but the problem is bilateral. I'm left handed, but my problem is not only my left elbow, but my right as well.
I myself work in a hand clinic have had my co workers stretch my arm, but they feel the slight end feel as well. When getting stretched, I don't feel a stretch in my bicep, like I should with extension. Instead I feel more of a pressure/ slight pain in the posterior elbow/ joint area. I did get stretched for approx. a month about 2 years ago, but did not gain much, if any motion.
I see an Orthopedic next month, but would like to see what your take would be on this issue. It never really annoyed me until now. There are certain activities that I have trouble doing now, such as lifting large/ long objects that require full extension. From looking at my elbow, it appears I have about 15 degrees of extension lag.

Thanks so much for your advice and sorry for the long story.

Dave

4/11/2008 - Dave

Response: Most likely congenital and therapy won't help at all - let us know what ortho thinks but if you are better than a 30 degree contracture no surgical intervetion would be indicated. Thanks for the post!

Question: I'm physiotherapist, 30 years old female.
I started to have pain at my left wrist 3 years back without any history of trauma . I had X-ray and MRI and both didn't revealed any clear diagnosis. I was seen by different doctors.
One said it may be Ganglion cyst, other said tendinitis, and one Orthopedic professor said scaphoid-lunate ligament over-stretch. I used splint for so long, then I had cast for about 3 weeks, but did not helped so much.

Anyhow, I took on shoot of steroid injection to dorsal crease of wrist, and it did help for long time. Lately, the pain has returned. I realized pain more with wrist extension and moderate with wrist flexion.
Now, I'm applying anti-inflammatory gel and wrap my wrist with adhesive coban bandage.

my Q.: is there any helpful advice for my condition?
Thank you

4/10/2008 - kholoud

Response: SL laxitty or tear is a potential concern. Did you try a Watsons test? Did you see a hand surgeon? These are tough cases and often times surgery doesn't make a huge help.

Question: I am not a customer, but thought I would ask. I am having pain in the knuckle of my right index finger. Can't point to any injury. pain is sharp at times, mainly late in the day. sometimes no pain at all.

4/9/2008 - Bill McClellan

Response: Who knows? Can be anything from nothing to arthritis, to a hurt ligament, to inflammation, to muscle. Sorry can't really pin it down in this type of communication. Ask your family doc next time you have a routine visit. If the pain continues you may want to call and get an appointment

Question: On average how often is a hand re-evaluated after a traumatic injury?

4/8/2008 - Page

Response: depends what you mean by re-evaluated and what the extent of the inury or more specifically the complications you may be having. And is this re-eval by the surgeon, primary care, or therapists? So it depends on so many circumstances. If you have questions ask the surgeon. If he/she doesn't address your concerns ask his PA or nurse. If that fails you may need to seek additional advie. But I would be surprised if a surgeon or therapists does not address your concerns. Also everythime you see the therapist and/or doctor they are re-assessing you clinically.

Question: I am left handed. After playing golf my ring finger gets swelled at the knuckle and it hurst the bend or straiten. Any suggestions.

4/7/2008 - bert

Response: I can be many reasons. I advise you see your medical specaialists. After prolong grasping many factors can contribute to a swollen, painful stiff joint. It may be OA, it may be an inflammed tendon, it may be injury? You may want to look at your grip size of the club, as if it is OA or inflammation ergonomic considerations are recommended. If your doc says it is OA you can wrap it with very thin light finger wrap/tape before the game and during. Also heat prior to the game is good to loosen the joint. If it is an inflammatory condition you will need to modify or stop the grasping until the inflammation resolves. Most important you seek medical attention and get a diagnosis.

Question: i having some numbness on my L pointer finger, then after a week my middle and the right hands, have the same numbness. what is the cause of this things,

3/31/2008 - irvin

Response: This can be many things and anything. You need to seek medical advise. Make an appointment with your doctor. If you don't have a doctor go to a community clinic or ER

Question: I punched a window really hard and now my knuckles really hurt what do i do to heal them?

3/27/2008 - josh

Response: You need to seek medical attention. See a doctor.

Question: I am not a patient, but desperate for information. At the end of May 2007 I fell and suffered a Colles' fracture to my right wrist. About 1 month after removal of the plaster, I began to notice that I was unable to completely form a fist AND unable to straighten my ring and fourth fingers. No amount of physio helped, though my grip became stronger. Finally I was referred to an orthopedic surgeon, and underwent surgery for Dupuytrens at the end of February. But the surgeon told me that he was "unable to find" what he was looking for, and the problem must be in my finger joints themselves. I am to meet him again in a few weeks, and also see a hand specialist. My fingers are still bent, though not quite so severely, but my fourth finger gives me much trouble. I have almost no sensation in the pad, it burns and tingles, and I get flashes of pain in it. Both fingers are completely rigid in their bent positions. My major question is - what have I got if not Dupuytrens? And should I be thinking of further surgery? I like the idea of NA, but could that be wrong for me? I would also be interested in hearing whether it is common for such a condition to develop so quickly after a fracture.
From a very active 73-year-old Englishwoman living in Sweden

3/24/2008 - Jan Robbins

Response: Just based on the description alone I might have thought Dupuytrens also. You might ask the hand specialist to check for CRPS. I would seek 2 hand surgeons opinions if you are not satisfied with the options from the first one. Your symptoms are not common after Colles fracture but they are also not impossible. Keep us posted and we wish you a speedy recovery.

Question: I received an injury to my 'pinky' left knuckle over a year and a half ago now. I initially had an x-ray showing nothing and 6 months ago had another x-ray and MRI scan again both showing nothing. I was told from the MRI that I had some excess fluid on the knuckle but that was all. Being a boxer i have been unable to compete since and am starting to ask myself the question will I ever be able to box again? the mobility of the joint is fine, if anything slightly over-mobile, the only thing I am unable to do is punch due to the tenderness on impact??

3/23/2008 - Liam

Response: Liam - it would be a good idea to look at protective taping/wrapping since this problem is lingering. Many clinicians can teach taping or wrapping specific to boxers.

Question: Why Did The the Left tip of my Index Finger get numb after playing video games straight for about 36 hours nonstop?The feeling didn't come back for about 3 weeks, and i would sometimes get this tingling sensation through it why??

3/19/2008 - Jeff

Response: Anything for 36 hrs. straight will have deleterious effects. I would recommend no more than one or two hrs. of gaming at a time to protect your hands!

Question: I had hand surgery in 1983 while in the army. I got my hand caught in a vehicle and the fan belt tore into my right dominant hand. I had oil and rubber in it as it ripped my tendons and nerves in the palm of my hand. Now i am having problems with my entire arm. I have had 5 surgeries from the point of the injury til 1986. i still have little or no feeling in my little and partial feeling in my ring finger. I have no flexion in either of the fingers. I guess you can say none of the surgeries works. I am just looking for a explanantion to why i am now having problems with my entire arm. The strength in my hand and right arm are getting weaker and weaker. From the elbow all the way to my fingers. And the Veterans Admin won't increase my benefits. I would like any info you could provide.

3/17/2008 - calvin

Response: The nerves in your hand started in your neck and go to the hand. It is not unusual after devasting hand injuries to have pain in the entire arm. If things are getting worse perhaps you need to modify what you are currently doing with the hand/arm as this can have a direct effect on your pain.

Question: i just had my 24 stitches removed on my right hands, i got a deep cut on on my last finger close to the joint.and my tendon got repair by the ER when i first got arrived,no need to surgery.but after the stitches removed, i felt a lot of pain from the nre fresh of skin on my hand and my last finger, when i took thr tylenlo 3 prescriped by dr.it will help for 2 hours until the nerves start jump and pain brgan.Very uncomfortable, i've been wearing the sprint on almost in 4 weeks still.is this normal pain i got, and swelling still.and how long the swelling go away?

3/17/2008 - Sally

Response: These types of injuries are very traumatic and take months to heal. It is best to visit a hand therapist so they can guide you in the proper exercise and activities for your hand. You do have some precautions due to the tendon repairs in your hand and you don't want to harm them.

Question: I have for the last 3 months had on and off pain in the first 2 knuckles of my hand. I have had various blood test(for RA) which all show normal. My first knuckle and fingers does not swell or go stiff,or look any different but they just sting and hurt on and off during the day and then disappears completely for a few days. I recently changed doctors who does not seem to give me an explanation only that she does not think it is RA or OA, any explanation for this would be helpful

3/16/2008 - Helen

Response: It would be impossible to guess on your diagnosis without seeing you. If you are not satisfied with what you first Dr. says you should seek out a second opinion. You hand pain/swelling could be from a huge variety of concerns.

Question: on my right hand my middle finger can hardly bend it hurts so much it hurts if i hit it on anything please help it hurts

3/15/2008 - debbie

Response: You need to visit a Dr. to see what might have happened to you finger.

Question: i was playing football like 5 days ago and i jammed it it hurt really bad that day it happend, now it still hurts when i bend it what do u think is wrong should i give it a couple more days for it to heal

3/12/2008 - tim

Response: if it is still uncomfortable after another couple of days it is worth having it looked at since finger "jams" often can end up as debilitating injuries if not treated correct early on.

Question: I fell over ice skating in January, i had a pot on my wrist for 6 weeks, when the pot got removed i was supplied with a splint and told to exercise it. i had a dizzy spell and fell down the steps, resulting in more injury, i have since been to a private hospital which they have said i need a MRI scan on the hand as i have quite a large swelling below the scaphoid bone, they said it might be a chipped bone but i wondered if they would have to put my hand in a cast?

3/11/2008 - georgie

Response: Not of significance - it is more significant now to asses what to do currently.

Question: At night my right hand knuckles have severe pain from the last two weeks.

3/6/2008 - Philomena

Response: Philomena - you should get this evaluated by a dr. since it has lasted for more than a few day.

Question: I am 2 weeks post-op from multiple fractures to my pinky, ring and middle fingers of my L hand. I had 6 pins and surgical removal after 4 weeks. Both knuckle joints of my ring and pinky finger are stiff locked and have very little movement if any. PT was staeted aggressivley and was slowed down due to the pain and discoloration of my hand. I was told that my nerves in my hand and wrist were reacting poorly and they did not want me to have any long term damage so they slowed therapy down. Is therapy at this point better served more therapuetically or to restore movement? I still have a significant amount of swelling.

3/6/2008 - Joann

Response: It is important to see a therapist that specilizes in hand care in order to find the correct balance of motion and rest. Splinting is often indicated when a lot of stiffness resides after these types of injuries in order to regain motion. A splint is like a take home therapist. If therapy is too aggressive you can aggravate the nerves. It is a fine line. Make sure you are comfortable that the clinician you are seeing is right for you.

Question: Hello, I'm a professional flutist that has always had back and neck issues since high school. ie: occasional sharp pain down my legs when I walk, dull pain and tingling when I sit and recently I'm experiencing a crawly tingling in the top upper back part of my head...and sometimes in my feet. The thing that worries me the most is my LH pointer finger. I practice a lot and hold the flute pretty much on the knuckle of my LH pointer. It feels like I have damaged a nerve since my finger becomes numb after a long practice session. Is this rooted in my neck or just on this knuckle? I can't seem to find a diagram that labels a nerve in that exact area. The numbness goes away after a couple hours but when I put the flute on it, or press lightly, it gives me a striking nerve pain. What do you think? Thank you for your response!

3/5/2008 - Kate

Response: Musicians face problems with anatomy due to the awkward positions they put their bodies in. Since you have a history of neck/back issues this is likely from your neck but it is worth getting a work up to evaluate exactly what is wrong as these types of problems do not just go away but the DO get worse and if you go untreated you can have permanent nerve damage. Starting with a neurologist or orthopaedic specialist would be a good start to determine the actual cause of your symptoms.

Question: I am not a patient, but I am an occupational therapy student. I am currently doing research on Symtpoms and precautions for Fractured Humerus and Ulner Nerve Injury. Do you have any resources or any information on those areas?

3/5/2008 - Ashlee Stordahl

Response: Ashlee if you go to www.liveconferences.com our aching arms course is great to learn about nerve injuries and we have a wonderful course on fractures that will be an excellent learning tool.

Question: My husband severed 3 tendons in his hand while working. The emergency room doctor consulted a plastic surgeon. He said to loosely sew and he would reattach tendons. He did not reattach for 3 weeks. Could this be why RSD set in?

3/2/2008 - Jodie

Response: Jodie - we are never sure why RSD occurs or how. The key is early intervention when treating RSD. If you have this you are ahead of most!

Question: My daughter had a mallet finger injury. She wore splint for six weeks mainly all the time. Now it seems like the tip is straightened but the section from her mid-knuckle to her top knuckle is bruised and swollen and after two weeks of having removed the splint there has been no change. Is this a normal part of the healing process? Should we put the splint back on? Is this an "overuse" injury.

2/23/2008 - S

Response: Putting the splint back on will not help the middle joint. She may need therapy to assis with getting that joint moving and back to normal again now that her mallet is improved.

Question: I injured my ring finger DIP joint playing football. The fingertip was jammed down forcefully enough to pop off the extensor tendon with a bone chip. I have had in splinted for 6 weeks in full extension, and a few days ago was told to remove the splint. I still have an ugly mallet finger, and cannto fully extend the joint. Due to splinting stiffness, I also have limited flexion. Should I resplint for a longer time to try to reduce the mallet deformity? I'm really disappointed in the outcome--I was very careful with splinting, and I play the piano, so I really need this joint to become fully functional again. Help.

2/16/2008 - jane

Response: Jane - you will need to talk to your Dr. to determine the best route now that you are 6 weeks out and still have a mallet. You might do better with surgical intervention to correct the mallet if it is persistent at this point. It is often helpful to get more than one Dr's opinion.

Question: I recently spiraled fracture my pinky...i have my cast off but it still hurts. I can hardly bend it and i go back to my doc next week. Do you think i have to have surgery?

2/12/2008 - Jen

Response: Usually if surgery is indicated most likely this is done before the cast is applied.unless it is correct after a failed set.

Question: I am a 38 yr old dental assistant and several months ago, my pinkie finger on my right hand started to hurt. It hurts where the finge and hand come together and I cannot bend my finger all the way to make a fist. It hurts most in morning and at night, so bad sometimes that i have to take pain meds. The doctor said it was gout, but it never went away. im in desparate need of relief.

2/11/2008 - Julie

Response: It might be a good idea to get another opinion if you are still having pain. However, gout needs to be treated with medication and can take a long time to heal.

Question: Three months ago I slipped and fell on some ice, breaking the Dip joint in my pinkie finger on my right hand. I had surgery and had three temporary pins put in the joint to heal the break. During the procedure to remove the pins the resident cut the tendon on the top of my finger, afterwhich he put a stitch in to fix the tendon. Now my pip joint has been affected, I can no longer straighten it out as I could before the procedure to remove the pins. It looks like a "mallet" finger. I've had three weeks of physiotherapy and have had no progress straightening it. I am slowly regaining the use of the dip joint with the help of my physiotherapist, but I am wondering what I can do to straighten the pip joint. It makes typing and daily activities with my hand difficult and the muscle along the side of my hand (under the pinkie) is still very sore. Any advice would be appreciated.

2/1/2008 - Sarah

Response: If you have a mallet finger - your DIPJ can't fully extend and you need to immobilize the DIPJ for a period of time - a minimum of 6 weeks of immobilization is required to regain extension.

Question: I recently severed all the tendons and nerves in my wrist in a bear attack and was wondering if my hand will be limp and gimpy forever, or if it will someday regain function?

1/31/2008 - Alex Gonsiewski

Response: If the nerves and tendons were repaired with the proper therapy your hand can do very well. I wish you well and a speedy recovery. Who did better… you or the bear?

Question: I am a 64 year old muscian ..guitarist facing a surgery for my severe CMC left thumb arthritis...this is my fretting hand ..first hand surgeon suggests a CMC Arthoplasty LRTI ..bone removed and replaced with a tendon ball from my wrist. Question: Can I expect to return to my advanced level of play after this surgery? The doc ( good guy ) did not suggest any other procedures and said prosthetic approaches were ill advised ..but I came upon a Spherical Implant procedure with a much shorter recovery time, 3-5 weeks versus four months plus ... is this a viable option to regain facility and get back to playing sooner? Any advice would be much appreciated, Thanks, Peter

1/26/2008 - Peter Gutierrez

Response: Peter - the literature on CMC arthroplasty is highly varied with success and outcomes. The LRTI has a long standing history of success and many patients I have treated go on to have the opposite hand done a year later. It is critical to go with a procedure the best surgeon you can see uses most as a technique, as good as it may seem, is only as good as the surgeon can perform it. The LRTI does have a long recovery time, the other procedures, in my hands have an equally long recovery. Wishing you much success.

Question: I had carpal tunnel operation on my right (predominant) hand 2 wks. ago. I move it a lot for therapy when it hurts, I shake it. It hurts more than it ever did. Am I doing to much therapy?

1/20/2008 - Marilyn

Response: You can be overdoing things at only 2 weeks post op. It would be best if you were in a supervised therapy program with guided exercises. It can take 6 months or longer to heal after a carpal tunnel release.

Question: hello a year ago i had a tendon transfer to help my hand work better well my question is what kind of things should i do to build it up?

1/13/2008 - tyler horak

Response: Hi Tyler - you really need a visit with a professional clinician that can evaluate your hand in detail as every injury is so different that I can't give you a blanket idea of activities that will build up your hand. It depends on the type of surgery, how far our of surgery you are, your past medical conditions and many other factors.

Question: four weeks ago, the 4th figure of my right hand "locked" into place & basically, has stayed that way. attempts to "straighten" it are painful & unsuccessful

1/9/2008 - michael wilson

Response: this might be a trigger finger and you should have it looked at by a physcian as if it stays in the contracted position for an extended time it will be hard to regain extension later.

Question: A week ago I fell and dislocated my left pinky finger. The ER put in back in place for me. The swelling has subsided for the most part but my finger is stiff and I am not able to bend it that well. The ER Dr. said the tendon was fine because she was able to bend my finger. Should I be concerned?

1/2/2008 - shannon

Response: It is very early after your injury but if you have any concerns at all you should see a hand specialist and he/she will be able to guide you the right direction. It is better to NOT wait as it is easier to correct problems addressed early rather than later.

Question: 3 weeks ago I sustained a "possible fracture" and dislocation (between dip and pip of my right thumb.
I'm wearing an aluminum splint to keep thumb extended.
Will I regain the ability to write and use tools such as pliers (I make jewelry)? Would I benefit from hand therapy? Thank you.

1/2/2008 - MADELYN GONZALEZ

Response: You very well may benefit from hand therapy depending on how healed your "fracture" is healed at this point. You should ask your orthopedic Dr. for a hand therapy referal for a visit or two and they can set you up with an appropriate splinting or exercise program.

Question: I HAVE SEVERED MCP OF MY 4TH & 5TH FINGERS TENOPLASTY, DEBRIDEMENT WAS DONE BUT AFTER 4 MOS. I CANT FLEX MY 2 RIGHT HAND FINGERS AND START TO SHOW DEFORMATION, IS THERE POSIBILITY TO CORRECT THIS THROUGH RECON SURGERY

12/30/2007 - NOEL LUALHATI

Response: If you have tried all therapies including a variety of splinting techniques than yes it is possible to see a hand surgeon to have the contractures that are not allowing you to move released. They usually consider this at 6 months post injury.

Question: How soon should PT be initiated after flexor tendon repair in the thumb?

12/21/2007 - Terri

Response: Some dr's start within 24 hrs. while other dr's hold the patient for up to a week in a splint

Question: i punched my radiator hard this mornin now my 5th pinkie knuckle has sweeled up big time and its stiking out and slightly numb!!

12/16/2007 - bobiiieee

Response: These types of injuries are best suited to see a Dr. as soon as possible due to potential damage to tendons and nerves.

Question: About a month ago I hurt a middle knuckle on my L index finger. There was a cut and a bruise, I thought. It was swollen for about a week. The cut healed but I still cannot bend my finger without pain, especially if I am trying the pick something up. The pain has been constant for last two weeks. I can bend the finger all the way if I do it slowly, but it hurts. Is it normal for a bruised joint or do I need to see a specialist and do an X-ray?

12/14/2007 - Galina

Response: I would agree with you that a specialist is the way to go to rule out damage to the tendon, nerve or other structure.

Question: I had surgery on my right pinky which is my dominant hand the put 2 permanent screws in. I went thru 4 wks of therapy but it is still really stiff and I can not make a fist. there is no swelling. Any idea on exercises or anything that I can do to try to get back to normal? The pins are located between the joint that connects to my palm and the knuckle joint. Thanks

12/12/2007 - Mike

Response: Mike - sometimes the therapist can provide you with a splint to help recover your motion. This may be an option with your injury and is worth reviewing with your doctor or therapist or both. Either a static progressive splint or dynamic splint can be helpful if the bone is not blocking full motion recovery.

Question: My brother and I were born with what seems to be a missing tendon in both of our hands. We cannot move our pointer fingers efficiently at all. It is hard to explain all of the details about it because no doctor we've talked to has any idea what it is. The best way I can think of to describe it is to tell you that it is impossible for us to make the number one signal with our finger. Also, as an interesting note, we cannot extend our fingers and keep our wrist and a 90 degree angle with our arm. It wasn't a big deal to me when I was younger, but now that I am playing guitar I'm finding it extremely limiting.

12/5/2007 - ryan

Response: It sounds like it might be a shortened tendon not allowing full motion. It would be best to see a qualified hand surgeon as they may be able to extend or release the tendon in order to improve your function.

Question: I had CMC arthroplasty with a tendon transfer about a year ago and I still cant do any repetitive activity. Is this ever gonna be pain free?

12/4/2007 - kim

Response: Kim at a year you are very often at a point in which you will function how you should after arthroplasty. If you didn't have any therapy you might still be able to try some rehab to maximize the use of your hand. You can also wear splints to assist you with repetitive activities that are bothering your hand.

Question: sprained forefinger playing basketball.what is the best treatment to get rid of swelling and when can i start minor exercises.

12/1/2007 - george kyrgios

Response: Have you seen a hand specialist? If not this this will be helpful as they can show you how to wrap the finger to reduce swelling and exercies that will not cause irritation to the finger. Often times one visit does the trick.

Question: how too cure a pinky finger when it is sprained

8/25/2007 - steven

Response: If a sprain is really a sprain they often will heal with rest, ice and maybe a few days of immolization. However, often times sprains are not sprains but are torn ligmaments and need medical intervention. These injuries are best suited by seeing a hand specialist early on.

Question: I had perilunate dislocation amd I was in a cast for about 4 months how long will wrist be stiff and long should i wait to go back to work i would so like to know if i should ice it down or put heat for sweeling and if you could send me some excerdise that would be grat

8/22/2007 - clem

Response: Hi Clem - you will need to obtain a release to work form from your Dr. to return to work. Stiffness after these types of injuries can last a long time. It is not unusal to continue to gain motion for a year after injury so keep working on it. To obtain a list of appropriate exercises you will need to go for a visit to a local hand therapist as we customize programs to fit our patients needs. Good luck.

Question: I almost severed my pinky finger on my right hand. The nerve and tendon were severed. I had surgery and a piece of tendon from the back of my wrist was used for some reconstruction.
I had 3 months of OT and it's been 4 months since the surgery and I tried to golf and can't hold the club in my injured hand properly as everuthing feels thick and stiff.

Any help available outside of taking up chess??

8/15/2007 - tom palin

Response: To play golf it will be best to get a modified club grip. These can be made by the OT or you can have the golf shop get them for you. This will improve your grasp and you game!

Question: Two months ago I sustained a deep laceration to my left pinky finger which required 7 stitches. There is now a nasty scar and I have no sensation in the lower part of my finger. It is as if I had a shot of novacaine to the area. Will my feeling come back? How long would that take?

8/2/2007 - Marie

Response: Perhaps you actually cut the nerve! You should visit a hand surgeon for assessment as the nerves lie close to the skin and can be cut quite easily. He/she can also send you for a couple of visits to a hand therapist who will then be able to help you with your scar. Lots of tricks to manage scar.

Question: I recently underwent major hand trauma and had three fingers completely severed. Two of them were successfully (thus far) replanted, with the tip of my ring finger terminalised. The index finger was cut off right at the base, and the middle finger severed at the first knuckle. I'd just like some basic idea of what sort of hand therapy procedures I can expect in the near future (yes, I will be getting one as I'm insured). The incident only occurred a little over 2 weeks ago, hence why I'm a little in the dark. Thanks.

7/14/2007 - Carey

Response: I am sorry for such a horrible injury. I am glad you were able to have to replanted. You can also get a very nice prosthesis for the missing digit if you want. Many companies offer wonderful ones. Your hand therapist will be your most valuable tool in the months to come. She/he is your coach and will lead you to the path of recovery. Listen closely and you will do great. These injuries take a great deal of time to heal and may require multiple surgeries for ultimate recovery. Keep your positive attitude and spirits up. We wish you an excellent recovery.

Question: I am a computer programmer, last year for some time i had used a defective mouse due to which my right hand index finger had started paining. The pain started from the knuckles and went on to the base of the finger.
Then i switched my mouse hand to my left. Since then the pain reduced in my right hand index finger but has not totally gone. I have pain in the first knuckle from the palm frequently during the day. But the pain is not continous. And now slight pain has also started in my left hand index finger as i am using the mouse with my left hand. What steps would you suggest for me to cure my condition?

7/4/2007 - g

Response: It is most likely s you see due to what you are doing. I would try a track ball mouse that doesn't need clicking and see how that goes. Try a few different ones in the store before you buy one.
Good luck

Question: I had surgery on my wrist 10 weeks ago for a perilunate dislocation with acute carpal tunnel syndrome. I just got out of my cast and I'm seeing an occupational therapist in about one week. What kind of exercise can I do on my own until then?

7/3/2007 - Shea

Response: Until you see the therapist I would do only gentle motion in a pain free range. Do not do any lifting or heavy activities until he/she reviews your whole history and case. Good luck!

Question: I'm a right handed 18-year old girl and so of course I use my right hand for most all the things I do...especially in one of my course's subjects, we are to write lots and lots of things... and we have to rewrite all of them in large notebooks and since the instructor speaks very fast and he has projector visual aids, that means he doesn't have much to write, thus giving him more time to talk. We have four hours for this subject alone and it is filled with unslow discussion. My hand begins to hurt but if I stop, then I'll lag behind the discussion and miss a considerable amount of notes (it's automatic...tests the next meeting). If there's pain, is it okay if I do not stop writing? Will my hand "break" or sprain or have joint problems? There is pain in my right hand..but the focal point of the pain seems to be in the middle finger's knuckle. I also think if I stay on the internet for some time and if I use my pointer finger to do some mouse-clicking (if i do it for a long time or if not a long time, then, repeatedly with very little intervals), that may also contribute to the focal point of pain near/around the central knuckles. (additional info: I got upset about something and I sort of punch things when I get upset... there was one time when I got upset over something... I punched the object nearest to me...a metal pole T_T how I regret my folly...that was months ago...got a little bruise/cut near middle finger knuckle but it's gone now, wasn't too much of a big deal even though i kinda struck the pole a little...hard. Currently have no problems from that punch but having probs with all that writing and rewriting...hope I won't do that [punching] by impulse again). Got tips on strengthening hand [joints/knuckles], like what to eat that's good for strengthening the hand [joints/knuckles], or what hand exercises/movements (or non-movements) is beneficial for recuperation? Thanks for the to-be-given advise, I appreciate it^^. More power and God bless you ^^

6/18/2007 - Ann Lorraine

Response: Your hand will not "break" from the activities you are doing with writing. You can be getting a writers cramp. You may try a new enlarged pen, modified grip on your pen or a custom type pen. Also, avoiding punching anything will be helpful. I would not focus on strengthening as this issue is pain from your punching or heavy griping. Streching might be good for you. I would try some modified pens and grip patterns to start. Good luck

Question: I have an overuse injury-i've had two surguries,one to remove the pisiform bone and carpal metacapal joint arthroplasty-on thumb joint-i've been told that i may lose the use of my hand-it appears to be getting harder to move and is very stiff-with alot of cracking with movement, i excercise it daily-but it is painful and uncomfortable especially at night. Keeps me up all night
any treatment to make it more comfortable would be of help. I have therpy puddy-splints-hot wax-tried rice pack-heat-cold, plus several types of pain relieving aides.

5/30/2007 - Marilyn

Response: You have not provided us with enough information. When was surgery? What was the medical diagnosis? What was the medical procedure? Do you have a hand therapist? If not can you as the doctor to prescribe you to a hand therapist? If you are in this much pain I highly recommend you go to the surgeon, your primary care, or a walk in clinic. If your pain in increasing get professional assistance. I don’t know if the exercises are appropriate for you? Did your therapists or doctor recommend the mentioned exercises, hot wax, and splints. If they did I am sure you are in good hands. Therapy takes a while. Pain is dynamic (meaning it can increase and decrease often). If the surgery you had is what I am thinking (thumb arthroplasty or an LRTI because of an arthritic joint) from my clinical experience it can take a year to feel “normal” again. But in the meantime, you need to ask your therapist if you are over doing it. You may be. If this is the surgery you had, it is a significant invasive surgery. They remove a bone with drills, saws, scalpels. They do lots of surgery in a small area. The pain can be significant. We wish you well.

Question: Bone tumor removed in left pinky finger(middle bone) on 3/29, due to finances cannot do physical therapy..please advise ideas on home hand therapy exercises.The surgery itself took us out with the finances.

5/27/2007 - Donna

Response: I would get one visit with a hand specialist. It will be worth the small investment. We can't advise on programs without seeing you. You can do a one time visit with an experienced therapist near you and then you can modify or change the program in the weeks to come as needed.

Question: What is the functional minimal motion needed for external rotation

5/22/2007 - blair Cocking

Response: Many factors must be taken into consideration. Muscle strength, integrity of the shoulder joint, diagnosis, surgical procedure (if applicable) etc… Don’t quote me on this but I believe 30 degrees of ER of the shoulder is needed for function. Take into consideration that people adapt. I know rheumatoid arthritic patients that have very limited “Functional” ROM and they are able to function. This is not a black and white answer. For specifics, refer to your physician.

Question: I recently had carpal tunnel release on my nondominant hand. I would like to help it recover as quickly as possible since I will be having surgery on the other hand soon. I would like to desensitize the scar, increase mobility and build strength.

4/11/2007

Response: You know what you need to do from what I am reading. Do you have a local therapist that can help review your program for a visit or two - this will ensure you are on the right path.

Question: What is K-Taping? What type of tape is used to tape?

3/26/2007 - Laurie Gosse

Response: Kinesio taping - kinesio tape is only type of tape that is used in rehab. Other types exist such as balancing tex tape. The type of tape used depends on the what the therapist orders. Some like pepsi some like coke if you know what I mean!

Question: I have major damage to my index finger. My palm was cut by a glass from the base of my thumb over to my pinky. With scar tissue and the tendon, which seems to be mending. What type of homework can i use besides the finger tip touches, spread the fingers, curl the finger with non injuried hand?

3/21/2007 - Tonia

Response: What you are allowed to do will depend on how far along you are with your injury. A personal favorite of mine is rolling over a golf ball to soften and desensitize the scar. One or two visits with a hand therapist would not be a bad idea if you are worried about your progress.

Question: I've had 2 finger fractures in my 4th and 5th fingers of my non dominant hand. I seem to be progressing fairly well, and my pins will come out next week. While I understand that all people ae different, it would be helpful to know in general how long it might take to regain certain skills, like gripping moderately heavy items (1kg or less), and tying my shoes, or other things. My job requires both of my hands, so I'm trying to plan appropriately...

3/21/2007 - Katie

Response: When your pins come out you will be able to ask your Dr. about the stability of your fractures. Many fractures of the hand are stable as soon as 3 weeks if they are in an area of good blood flow. Other fractures are not stable for up to 8 weeks or longer if they are in areas with less than acceptable blood flow. It is very specific to the area of the fracture, the individuals healing capacity and how well the fractures were put back together!

Question: (given the circumstance of not having insurance)
After palm laceration, digital nerve damage and flexor tendon repair surgery, Can anyone suggest self therapy protocol and techinques for the best recovery possible?

3/17/2007

Response: I see many patients with no insurance for just a one visit deal. This way I can give them LOTS of great info in a one shot program. Then they visit PRN to progress their program. I would recommend that if you can swing that.