#1 ·
Hey everyone
I could really use some input here. Here’s the situation: I took a hard fall on my right hand a while back and almost certainly fractured my ulnar styloid process. Since it wasn't a massive amount of pain at the time—just a localized ache where I hit it—I didn't think much of it. Fast forward about four or five months, and I started feeling this nagging joint pain at work that just wouldn't quit. I finally went to see a doctor. After running a few tests, it turns out the bone healed incorrectly. I ended up seeing an orthopedic specialist at Mayo Clinic, and since the joint doesn't hurt constantly and my range of motion seems fine, I figured I was okay. Sure, there's some occasional inflammation during certain movements, but nothing crazy. However, the surgeon told me surgery is the only way to fix the alignment, but he actually advised against it. He won't guarantee the bone will fuse properly or that the surgery will even make things better. His recommendation? Just leave it alone and lighten the load on my arm. Basically, he wants me to quit certain physical activities and jobs altogether.
So, I want to know what you all think. Does anyone have recommendations on who I should talk to for a second opinion? My doctor basically banned me from a bunch of stuff, including riding my bike! Since my hand felt better over the last two or three months, I started testing the waters to see what I can handle. I realized there are specific movements that trigger pain, but I'm still pretty limited in what I can do.
For instance, the other day my wrist flared up just from slicing meat on a cutting board. That said, there are plenty of heavy lifting tasks that don't cause any pain at all. I'd appreciate any help or info you guys can share.
Thanks in advance!
I could really use some input here. Here’s the situation: I took a hard fall on my right hand a while back and almost certainly fractured my ulnar styloid process. Since it wasn't a massive amount of pain at the time—just a localized ache where I hit it—I didn't think much of it. Fast forward about four or five months, and I started feeling this nagging joint pain at work that just wouldn't quit. I finally went to see a doctor. After running a few tests, it turns out the bone healed incorrectly. I ended up seeing an orthopedic specialist at Mayo Clinic, and since the joint doesn't hurt constantly and my range of motion seems fine, I figured I was okay. Sure, there's some occasional inflammation during certain movements, but nothing crazy. However, the surgeon told me surgery is the only way to fix the alignment, but he actually advised against it. He won't guarantee the bone will fuse properly or that the surgery will even make things better. His recommendation? Just leave it alone and lighten the load on my arm. Basically, he wants me to quit certain physical activities and jobs altogether.
So, I want to know what you all think. Does anyone have recommendations on who I should talk to for a second opinion? My doctor basically banned me from a bunch of stuff, including riding my bike! Since my hand felt better over the last two or three months, I started testing the waters to see what I can handle. I realized there are specific movements that trigger pain, but I'm still pretty limited in what I can do.
For instance, the other day my wrist flared up just from slicing meat on a cutting board. That said, there are plenty of heavy lifting tasks that don't cause any pain at all. I'd appreciate any help or info you guys can share.
Thanks in advance!