Q: My 33 year old wife got some injury while twisting her ring finger & maximum pain occurred at the bottom portion of ring finger, for the last three months. Soon after the injury, x- ray was done and no abnormality found by the orthopaedic doctor. The doctor gave some ointment & tablet for pain relief but no improvement. Then after 15 days shown to physiotherapist - he did massage in two/three setting by some instrument, at the ring finger. But still no improvement. Three & a half months have passed but there is severe pain when she bends her ring finger. She is unable to do kitchen work.

A:I am afraid your wife will require a little more rest, medication and physiotherapy for her hand. She has developed osteoarthritis of the joint. The treatment includes: 1. Rest. 2. Ask your doctor to prescribe her a combination of paracetamol and brufen to relieve pain. 3. She can do cryotherapy (with ice) for her hand. 4. Start small range active movements with maximum relaxation without exerting any stress on the involved joint. 5. Gradually, exercises for strength and grasp should be introduced. 6. If the pain is unbearable your therapist will guide you for the splint to keep the hand in elevation. Please do not do any massage. Within two weeks, she should be much better.