Quote:
Originally Posted by Paul D
But just in the last few days a lump has appeared on the first knuckle of my index finger which is very painful.
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Interestingly the one finger on my right hand that was least affected by ageing joints with stiffness and symptoms that come and go somewhat (Mainly due to excessive laptop use I suspect so lacking the normal range of movement activity one might expect) is the first section of my index finger. Until a few months ago when the knuckle to the first joint suddenly seemed to double in size and become awkward to use.
I recall a few months back accidentally catching a finger on that hand and severely bending it back but I don't think that one was affected. But now it's rather annoying and occasionally catches me out by not wanting to join in even the simplest activities - like using a knife to eat.
The rest of the finger joints have been getting stiffer for years but sometimes improve for a period of time.
In early January I bought a couple exercise devices, one of which I have used before in an earlier version, to try to improve arm and hand utility for movements I would not normally be undertaking. In particular the residual effects of smashing up and dislocating a shoulder about 15 years ago and never quite getting it anywhere near proper fitness since - but that was a long story involving sessions limited physio and, ultimately, a large bag of sugar.
The devices, for a few minutes a day most days, do seem to be having a useful effect without needing any extreme effort or a gym.
Things were slowed a little as a couple of weeks before Xmas I very nearly sliced the end off a little finger and required 5 stitches to hold it back together. That was an excellent NHS experience though all things being considered I was extremely lucky to get fast attention at a walk-in centre and just managed to obtain the services of the last nurse on the shift who was certified for stitching things. His shift finished just as the task was completed.
A pal of mine had a successful cataract operation last autumn. I think the appointment was quite quickly arranged at a specialised clinic but I'm not sure whether he went privately or relied on the NHS.
It does seem like the sort of operation that is now very safe and very quick with a rapid recovery expected.