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I Was In A Car Accident In January Of This

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Posted on Tue, 3 Sep 2019
Twitter Tue, 3 Sep 2019 Answered on
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Question : I was in a car accident in January of this year and suffered a dislocated right thumb. I was in a splint for over a month and then went through physical therapy for about two months. I have noticed over the last month that I'm having increased pain and loss of functionality of that thumb. Things I'm struggling with include using scissors, writing, twisting bottle tops or jar lids, pushing (such as pushing a thumb tack), kneading, opening a soda can and peeling things (such as a banana or foil yogurt lid). What could be causing this? It was my understanding that my thumb would continue to heal for up to two years, but I'm getting worse instead of better. Thank you.
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Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
See a hand surgeon!

Detailed Answer:
HI and thanks so much for this query.

I will recommend that you see a hand surgeon. He would evaluate the integrity and functionality of all the tendons and muscles that ensure the dexterity of this injured finger. Healing is a long process but would only be guaranteed if all structures are in their right place. If the surgeon confirms all structures are in the right position and intact, then you may need structured physical therapy to ensure the right activities are being carried out geared towards strengthening the injured structures.

I hope this guides and helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me as you deem necessary.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (1 hour later)
Thank you. I do have an appointment next week with my hand doctor. He treated me immediately after the accident, but discharged me with no limitations. I'll see what he says. Thank you.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (31 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Let me know how it goes!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

This is good that you have a follow up appointment. Let me know how this goes. I will be around to provide more details after your visit.

Waiting...
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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Answered by
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Dr. Chobufo Ditah

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 6315 Questions

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I Was In A Car Accident In January Of This

Brief Answer: See a hand surgeon! Detailed Answer: HI and thanks so much for this query. I will recommend that you see a hand surgeon. He would evaluate the integrity and functionality of all the tendons and muscles that ensure the dexterity of this injured finger. Healing is a long process but would only be guaranteed if all structures are in their right place. If the surgeon confirms all structures are in the right position and intact, then you may need structured physical therapy to ensure the right activities are being carried out geared towards strengthening the injured structures. I hope this guides and helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me as you deem necessary.