Arthritis from broken scaphoid nonunion

[J0sha]

I broke my scaphoid nonunion in 2008 and got surgery in 2008 also to fix the broken bone. My surgeon did a great job and inserted a metal rod to re-align my fracture.

After the operation he told me that I would be experiencing pain in my wrist and hand from arthritis in my early 20s (I was 15 at the time of the operation and am 20 now).

I visited an urgent care clinic because my new job requires me to lift heavy objects and really puts a toll on my wrist. I was prescribed naproxen by the urgent care doctor and it does not help much for the pain, especially during my work hours. I've tried countless over-the-counter lotions and anti-inflammatory medicines with no success. I also wear a wrist splint to keep my wrist straight during work.

What are some types of methods I could practice, or medicines I could take to aid my pain?

Thank you very much for reviewing my medical inquiry.

[philnoir]

I'm not sure where you are feeling the pain. If it is in the wrist joint, perhaps you would benefit from a steroid injection.

Opiate-based analgesics like Vicodan, Norco, and Percodan are not generally effective for arthritic pain -- if this indeed is your problem. Also, if you are lifting heavy objects at work, it may not be the correct environment for opiate-based analgesics.

Perhaps a stronger prescription NSAID might help?

However, without a diagnosis, we're just guessing about what would be best for you.

Your best bet is to consult with your doctor, who can come up with an appropriate treatment plan.

Good luck.

[divver1955]

yes jaded is correct in stating your age is a concern for usage of opiates the oc I use are strong and I don t leave the house when taking them

[JadedSweetheart]

I'm sorry to hear about your pain as I'm also experiencing arthritis (in my spine) at a younger age.  
You could ask to see a Pain Management specialist.  There are a number of things they can do, like injecting the area with a steroidal mixture to help the inflammation in the area, or burning the nerves that are being affected, etc.  Medication in young age is usually not a good long term solution.  Just my experience over the past 5 years of being on and off meds.  The PM specialist will be able to work with you personally, though.