Dorothea’s going to a doctor about her hand; it’s time for me to go to a doctor about my right thumb. The pain diminished a little last summer, but it returned over the fall and winter. I hardly use my thumb at all, now, except in circumstances where I need to differentiate myself from other primates: opening bottles, lifting pans, and so on. But I publicly resolve to call my doctor this week to look into what’s wrong (Dorothea was directed to megadoses of ibuprofen; I was offered naproxen, which was ultimately of no more help). Will report in when I learn what’s what.
Posted by AKMA at April 25, 2004 08:41 AM | TrackBackHi! I just lept over here from Noded; noticed your site on his and my curiosity got the better of me... (please don't come to my blog, as I swear like a sailor and am an Athiest and I don't want to offend you, honest.) I made it down the page, laughing heartily outloud several times at your incredible sense of humor and fun writing style. So, I just wanted to thank you and wish you a happy Sunday!
...And if may I just add: It's so refreshing to see such love exude from men of sterling character, such as yourself and JR. As I was reading your descriptions of your family, I felt my heart glowing, mirroring the love flowing out from your heart. I just bet you are one fine example of humanity. Your love is inspiring!
(I really gotta work on my cussing...it's only been on my New Year's Resolution list for like the last three decades. Chit.)
I had a similar condition: it was excruciatingly painful if I moved my thumb in a certain way. I took megadoses of ibuprofen for a month, which helped nothing. I also wore a brace that immobilized the thumb; again, no help. I finally got a steroid shot for it, and the pain has mostly cleared up. However, the research articles I found via my university’s library indicate that my problem is a degenerative one, much like osteoarthritis, and that there is no cure. It is a thickening of the cartilage, rather than an inflammation due to repetitive stress. Right now, the remaining symptoms include persistent soreness in the knuckles, and poor circulation in the hands. My doctor and the hand specialist never mentioned this in any of my visits over the months that the condition interfered with my daily activities.
Anyway, this is not to be alarmist, but to give a heads up on a possible cause, especially if your condition has persisted for a long time. Good luck!
Posted by: Dave at April 29, 2004 01:03 AM