Left wrist fusion 12/ 2010

[Louise2453]

I went for the first surgery on L wrist in Oct. 2010, had two bones removed then pined, after pins removed, something else happened to one of the bones it "collapsed" due unexpected severe arthritis (only had x-rays done to Dx the original problem).  I was informed I needed a wrist fusion to correct this, this was done Dec. 2010.
It is Sept 2011 and now I have more pain and discomfort than before surgery. My fingers middle, ring and pinky fingers are affected the most, the back of the hand and the wrist. I can make a fist do have full function of all fingers.  But still have swollen areas and what looks like residual bruising.  Have weakness doing daily actives.  It bothers me 24/7 no certain "one thing" aggravates this any more than doing nothing. I did go back to the surgeon about 6 months post op, he said the plate was in good position and stable and wanted to know what the problem was, I tried to explain he got angry and just walked out of the room in a huff. I was left sitting there baffled and confused. I am miserably unhappy, as I said in profile I am a nurse, and have lost dexterity, but able to do functions for my job. Can this be reversed somehow? Do I have any alternatives to this? The pain now is a chronic pain and sort of driving me nuts.... Please advise

[pleech]

Hi, I am almost identically in the same position you are in. I have been having increased pain, swelling, and my ring and little finger will hurt. I am in the process of possibly having my plate removed. I had my surgery in April 2010. It ***** having the "chronic pain" label. I tried a pain specialist, but they looked at me and didnt have a clue what to do. So they had me do physical therapy, which was pretty pointless since I cant move my wrist.
I figure my pain cant get any worse with or without the hardware. At least I will be done with this whole wrist thing after I get the hardware out! I hope you are feeling better and are having some good days in between the bad ones.

[mellie4]

My problem was a bit different than yours.  I had my thumb joint replaced and in the end had to have it fused (total of 9 surgeries in all.)  I also wound up with RSD.  He thought fusing it would fix the pain but he was wrong.   I asked him for the referral to the pain clinic.  That's where I get my meds and different treatments, which may bring me no pain relief, a little bit of relief or a fair amount but it never lasts long.  I am unable to perform my duties for my job and it really bothers me.  I loved my job!  It was exciting and interesting and great money.  Almost everything aggravates my pain but some things more than others.  I think I've made whatever improvement there is to be made and now I just have to accept it.

Are you seeing a pain specialist?  I think, if you're not, this is the time to see one and see if they have any suggestions for you!  Best of luck and let us know how things are going.