Symptoms have worsened
I had my first appointment with you on 11th November and my symptoms were better at that time, however within a couple of weeks my symptoms became worse and it is now extremely painful. The pain wakes me up a few times a night and is also quite painful during the day, frequently my thumb seems to 'ping' which is followed by extreme pain, my thumb and first three fingers are numb most of the time and the base of the thumb also sore.
I think the injection would be the next logical move. Regretably I can't come in today, but could come in tomorrow, would this be possible? If so should I just drop in or do I need to ring for an appointment? Thanks very much.
The next day when I would be able to both look at it and possibly get it injected would be Thursday, or after that Monday 6th Jan. We do need to know you are coming. JB
I can come in on Thursday. Should I ring to confirm a time? Many thanks.
It's likely to be quieter at the start of the morning if you can make it for about 9:00am. JB
My symptoms have improved over the last three days, I've gone from crying with pain to just numbness and slightly aching. My GP has put me on a weeks course of steroid tablets for my asthma, maybe this has helped? I am sure I will need the the injection in the near future but would rather wait until the pain has become unbearable again. Do you think this is wise or should I come in to see you next week? Many thanks.
It's not possible to be sure whether a change from pain to numbness indicates improvement or deterioration so we probably should check it and see. It is certainly possible that a course of oral steroids might have influenced it. I'll arrange an appointment, probably about mid January. JB
The thumb sounds a bit like a trigger digit but I would have to see it to be sure. As far as the CTS is concerned the logical thing to do next with it would be to try steroid injection. We could probably do this for you on Monday if you are able to come to Canterbury. JB