Question
Hi,

I have a dear friend who has very bad osteoarthritis in her hands (especially the right hand).

The lower thumb knuckle is easily twice normal size and causes a lot of pain..

It would seem to me that it would be possible, with surgery, to reduce the size of the knuckle (and, I assume, the pain it causes).

My friend is under the impression (perhaps correct) that surgery wouldn't help.

Is this correct?

Many thanks,

Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,

Yes, your friend is correct, all surgery will do is create scar tissue and possibly render the entire hands useless. It is probably too late for the thumb but the other joints can be saved by immediately taking 3 grams of Glucosamine Sulfate with MSM/day. Google this or read past questions for more info. There is absolutely no reason why anyone in this country should have Type II diabetes, OA or Osteoporosis with the given information we have now on prevention.

Take Care and good luck!

Dr. Timothy Durnin