I am afraid that I have developed osteoarthritis in my hands, esp. in the thumb joint. I experience pain up to 5 on 1/10 scale, but not swelling. After I ride my bike my hands hurt for several days, maybe the handlebar is too big around. The symptoms developed shortly after I broke my wrist (Collies fracture) two years ago. I realize that if I have this problem it isn't going away. How do I keep the damage to a miminim? I use Ibuprofen for pain with fair results. Are there other medications that I should investigate? Re: PT, after heavy useage of my hand it hurts, should I continue to push? And what about ice or heat, heat helps relieve the pain, if there is internal swelling am I increasing the scaring?
Thank you. Josepha