Miscellaneous

Hand Jive: Follow Up

After X-Rays & MRI

There has been no change in my hand/wrist/lump situation since my initial post; however, now we know it is not a ganglion cyst so the hand doctor was right about that. It is a fluid-filled sac which often occurs after a trauma to a tendon. The fluid is too thick for the lump to be drained so we are “exploring other options”. The lump itself does not hurt but my wrist is inflamed and hurts very much.

Last week I went for an MRI. X-Rays, ultrasound and MRI results indicate I have Vaughan-Jackson Syndrome (extensor tenosynovitis) which is characterized by the disruption of the digital extensor tendons, beginning on the ulnar side with the extensor digiti minimi (pinky finger) and extensor digitorum communis tendon of the pinky finger; the tendon is primarily responsible for straightening the index, middle, ring and pinky fingers. In some cases, the tendon may rupture, requiring surgery; so far my tendon is in tact. Vaughan-Jackson is most commonly associated with rheumatoid arthritis. I was never told I have rheumatoid arthritis and since 2003, I have been treated for osteoarthritis.

Next Wednesday I will meet with a rheumatologist; the first thing she will do is blood tests to determine if I have RA. After that, we should have a clearer idea how to proceed. Until then, I am back on prednisone to help relieve the inflammation and pain. I am frustrated with this problem which has been going on since June; however, I am relieved to have an appointment with a rheumatologist. It is my greatest wish to get the blood panel done. If it turns out I have RA, at least the doctor will start treating me appropriately. Things could be worse; they could always be worse.

Since I like to have fun and I’m tired of referring to the lump as “The Lump”, I’ve decided to name it. I will be entertaining all suggestions for a good lump names. Please leave any ideas for a name in comments. I’ll announce a winner by Friday. There’s no reward for the best name so don’t even go there. Thanks!

Our friend Jim Adams stuck this ear worm in my head. Now I’m going to share it with you. This is “The Name Game” by Shirley Ellis.

All text and graphics are copyright for Nancy Richy and are not to be used without permission. NARΒ©2017-present.

42 thoughts on “Hand Jive: Follow Up”

  1. Whether you call the lump a hunk or chunk, what truly matters for me is Nancy and her well-being. I can’t see you in pain. Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery πŸ™πŸ’β€οΈ

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  2. That’s an awful lot of techno medical garb. I hate long words.
    I called my first lump Humphrey and second Dick.
    Suggestions for yours: Egor, Handl or Ray, for no other reason than because……….
    Hope it all gets sorted soonest!

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  3. That looks painful, and I’m sure it must be. Best of wishes on getting that fixed and back on track. Wonder why Doctors can’t name a condition with a simple word? Like, Wrist ouchi, things like that. Big words scare me. Momo has some similar problems with RA, but she’s a nurse and knows everything.

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  4. Well, that sounds awful, but as you said, things could always be worse. At least you have a sense of humour about it, Nancy, and I hope things will progress positively. 🌹 As for the lump. how about Larry? πŸ˜†

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  5. Wish you weren’t dealing with Nancy. Sounds like you’re taking the necessary steps to find answers and hopefully relief. 🌼 I’ll return if I have a “lumpy” inspiration before Friday. πŸ€”

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