Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 10/6/2008

Question
April 15, 08 I had total basel joint surgery by Dr Michael E. Leit in Rochester, NY. At the same time I had carpel tunnel surgery. He replaced my basel joint with some tendons in my hand/wrist. My basel joint is now a tendon. My concern about my post surgery is that it has been almost 6 months since the surgery and I still have not gained all my strength in my right hand, I still have shooting pains in my hand (burning pain) and In the past month I have a bump about a 1/4 inch from the joint replacement that when irritatd by movement hurt terribly. I go back to Dr. Leit in two weeks. During the whole time I have been recovering I always showed good progress. Is what I am still experiencing normal? Just typing this to you in putting strain on my joint. Should I be concerned about the bump and pain? I am suppose to have the other hand done sometime in the near future and I am thinking I will pass on that one. Maybe I would just have the carpel tunnel done because that seems to be alright now. No more numbness. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Wendy Bradburn

Answer
Hi Wendy,   Not having all your strength back after 6 months is not uncommon depending on the amount of damage in the area prior to surgery.
Check it out with the doctor in two weeks I think you will get a better clarification then I can give you over the net. Could be some type of over use problem that you have but again these things are not uncommon.
Unless you are having extreme pain while not using the hand I see no reason to get alarmed. if you are not comfortable with what is going on get a hold of the doctor and request an earlier appointment and explain to the staff what you are sensing. If they feel it needs closer attention they will schedule you in sooner.

Richard Haynes
www.totaljointfitness.com
Punta Gorda, Florida.