topic Re: Failing fingers in Wellness

Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:18:09 GMT

My right hand has just taken a turn for the worse. I am now wearing a vinyl glove to try to keep my fingers together. I can't use a brace when I type. Rheumatologist said surgery is the only treatment.

I researched yesterday and hand surgery in RA cases is not particularly successful. Many scars and sometimes increased lack of dexterity. It is my right hand (the deformity always appears first in the hand that's used most and I'm such a "righty" I doubt I will be able to type with just my left hand). I will discuss this with a surgeon, and in the meantime, the vinyl glove is helping.

Almost shed tears while researching and watching a video of hand surgery (really awful), but I didn't cry. I never cry about my health, just about everything else. I have been typing for over 60 years and using a computer for 36. Touch screens won't do much for me because one still has to type, e.g., on this BB.

This is not a surprise, I knew it would come. I just hate that it's here. I still feel lucky to be alive at this age and will just have to accept that life is going to be different in the coming months.

Re: Failing fingers

athenian — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:23:02 GMT

Praying for you.

have you tried a tablet? You can type with one finger, and I use my left hand when the right gets tired. It is slower.

Re: Failing fingers

fancy pantsy — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:24:43 GMT

i am so sorry. you will be in my thoughts and prayers

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:29:10 GMT

@athenian wrote:
Praying for you.

have you tried a tablet? You can type with one finger, and I use my left hand when the right gets tired. It is slower.

I am thinking that will be the way I will have to go. But I hate them so much . . . received one free from Comcast last year and gave it to my daughter. If I can hold a pointer, that might work. I'll just have to find a way. I know it will be slow going and that will be frustrating . . . but I'll try anything.

Re: Failing fingers

Mmsfoxxie — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:29:35 GMT

@LilacTree, I know what you mean. As soon as you accept one thing breaking down on your body, here comes another darn thing, right. Starts around 60, I think. Thank you, though, for helping me realize the arthritis in my hand still gives me nine fingers that work well.

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:38:36 GMT

@Mmsfoxxie wrote:
@LilacTree, I know what you mean. As soon as you accept one thing breaking down on your body, here comes another darn thing, right. Starts around 60, I think. Thank you, though, for helping me realize the arthritis in my hand still gives me nine fingers that work well.

I'm assuming you have osteoarthritis, not RA? I didn't get it until I was 66, so I had a nice long life without it. I'm so sorry you have already lost the use of a finger at only 60.

I know there are worse afflictions. I am grateful for that. I just hate the thought of slowly losing my physical abilities one by one, I've already lost so many.

I just recently had a Medicare Wellness Check and my brain is still fine. IMO, that would be the worst.

Re: Failing fingers

2blonde — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:44:04 GMT

@LilacTree Oh, Lilac, I'm so sorry about this problem. I know how much you love these boards and depend on being able to "talk" with all of us here. You are such a beautiful person. You never show any ill feelings toward anyone here. It's amazing to me that you can remain so positive through all your physical difficulties.

I do think a tablet may be the best option for you, but I hate them too, so I know how you feel about that. One thing I've learned as I've gotten older is no matter what challenges my body puts out there for me, I always manage to find a way around them. I know you will also find a way to continue doing what you love........good luck to you!

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:52:33 GMT

@2blonde wrote:
@LilacTree Oh, Lilac, I'm so sorry about this problem. I know how much you love these boards and depend on being able to "talk" with all of us here. You are such a beautiful person. You never show any ill feelings toward anyone here. It's amazing to me that you can remain so positive through all your physical difficulties.

I do think a tablet may be the best option for you, but I hate them too, so I know how you feel about that. One thing I've learned as I've gotten older is no matter what challenges my body puts out there for me, I always manage to find a way around them. I know you will also find a way to continue doing what you love........good luck to you!

@2blonde That's me too. I'm a fighter in every aspect of my life. And I've been fighting these autoimmune issues for 12 years now. Thank you for your kind words, they help so much!

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 19:55:06 GMT

@fancy pantsy wrote:
i am so sorry. you will be in my thoughts and prayers

Thank you, fancy pantsy.

Re: Failing fingers

SilleeMee — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:20:12 GMT

@LilacTree wrote:
My right hand has just taken a turn for the worse. I am now wearing a vinyl glove to try to keep my fingers together. I can't use a brace when I type. Rheumatologist said surgery is the only treatment.

I researched yesterday and hand surgery in RA cases is not particularly successful. Many scars and sometimes increased lack of dexterity. It is my right hand (the deformity always appears first in the hand that's used most and I'm such a "righty" I doubt I will be able to type with just my left hand). I will discuss this with a surgeon, and in the meantime, the vinyl glove is helping.

Almost shed tears while researching and watching a video of hand surgery (really awful), but I didn't cry. I never cry about my health, just about everything else. I have been typing for over 60 years and using a computer for 36. Touch screens won't do much for me because one still has to type, e.g., on this BB.

This is not a surprise, I knew it would come. I just hate that it's here. I still feel lucky to be alive at this age and will just have to accept that life is going to be different in the coming months.

Oh it sounds very painful! I really feel for you. I have been told by my rheumy that I need hand surgery, too. But my hands are just the opposite of yours...my hands are frozen in a fixed semi-fist position. I can no longer move my fingers. I tell people I have manikin-itis. It's my way of saying scleroderma. Surgery would not be my choice. I am finally adapting to having bucket-carrying hands after having put up with this disease for 14+ years. In your case, however, surgery would be a step in the right direction and I hope you can heal well from it. I, too feel lucky to be alive after all I've been through with this terrible disease. No cure...just a lot of hope and lots of praying. Take care.

Re: Failing fingers

Q4u — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:04:00 GMT

I am SO sorry you have this problem... I am just starting to feel some aching in the top center of my right hand. I've actually had relief from (Brand) Tommy Copper gloves, which can be ordered on-line. I know what is going on with me is mild compared to you, but would feel remiss if I didn't at least mention the relief I've had. These are the only copper infused items that are actually made with fibers that are infused with copper and woven so the entire item radiates the copper. This is patented and no one can copy how they do this. But it's like anything, they can't advertise any "healing" properties as not everyone reacts in the same way. Just beware of copy cats that are being sold in places like Wal-Mart that "place" copper pieces within the item... different affect. Can only be purchased on their website tommycopperdotcom.

I have the gloves with no fingertips in beige and black. I also have knee wraps that really help my poor Karate knees. I swear by them... they also provide slight compression as well (which I like)....

I have no interest in this company at all other than I've found something that works for me and I tell people hoping it works for them too....

Good luck and my prayers for relief.... take care....

Re: Failing fingers

LonestarBabs — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:12:12 GMT

You may find that Dragon's voice-recognition software can help you with the computer -- you just talk and it types for you! Also other commands -- might be very convenient for you!

Re: Failing fingers

Q4u — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:15:51 GMT

@LonestarBabs wrote:
You may find that Dragon's voice-recognition software can help you with the computer -- you just talk and it types for you! Also other commands -- might be very convenient for you!

What an excellent idea! I saw it demonstrated right here on QVC once!

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:16:09 GMT

@SilleeMee wrote:
@LilacTree wrote:
My right hand has just taken a turn for the worse. I am now wearing a vinyl glove to try to keep my fingers together. I can't use a brace when I type. Rheumatologist said surgery is the only treatment.

I researched yesterday and hand surgery in RA cases is not particularly successful. Many scars and sometimes increased lack of dexterity. It is my right hand (the deformity always appears first in the hand that's used most and I'm such a "righty" I doubt I will be able to type with just my left hand). I will discuss this with a surgeon, and in the meantime, the vinyl glove is helping.

Almost shed tears while researching and watching a video of hand surgery (really awful), but I didn't cry. I never cry about my health, just about everything else. I have been typing for over 60 years and using a computer for 36. Touch screens won't do much for me because one still has to type, e.g., on this BB.

This is not a surprise, I knew it would come. I just hate that it's here. I still feel lucky to be alive at this age and will just have to accept that life is going to be different in the coming months.

Oh it sounds very painful! I really feel for you. I have been told by my rheumy that I need hand surgery, too. But my hands are just the opposite of yours...my hands are frozen in a fixed semi-fist position. I can no longer move my fingers. I tell people I have manikin-itis. It's my way of saying sceroderma. Surgery would not be my choice. I am finally adapting to having bucket-carrying hands after having put up with this disease for 14+ years. In your case, however, surgery would be a step in the right direction and I hope you can heal well from it. I, too feel lucky to be alive after all I've been through with this terrible disease. No cure...just a lot of hope and lots of praying. Take care.

OMG how are you typing this then? I have scleroderma and Sjogren's too, so I don't know which one this is, although doc says it's the RA.

How are you able to type this? . . . I really would like to know what method you are using. My heart goes out to you. How do you manage everyday things? Is it both hands?

You don't have to answer my probing questions, just know that I'm sending you my strongest good vibes. You sound so brave.

Re: Failing fingers

ChynnaBlue — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:31:08 GMT

@LonestarBabs wrote:
You may find that Dragon's voice-recognition software can help you with the computer -- you just talk and it types for you! Also other commands -- might be very convenient for you!

Yes, I came to recommend the same thing. The VR software gets better every year, especially now that so many companies are involved in developing things like Siri, Okay Google, and Amazon Echo. You should definitely look into this!

I sometimes have joint issues in my fingers and I make a living using a computer, so I've looked into existing options and Dragon was on my list.

Re: Failing fingers

hckynut — Thu, 26 May 2016 20:39:03 GMT

hi to you @LilacTree

really sorry to hear of yet more physical issues for you. i have OA in my 1st 3 fingers on both hands, the result of my 30 years of lifting heavy reel of wire which only accommodated using those fingers. more of an annoyance on mornings when i have to run hot water on them to open my hands than a real serious issue to me, considering.

know nothing about that type of surgery or anyone that has had it done. think if it were me, i would weigh the success % against the didn't work % before i would even think of having it done.

as for typing. have you ever considered a Voice to Text software like the 1 from Dragon?

my best to you and yours

hckynut(john)

Re: Failing fingers

SilleeMee — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:03:39 GMT

@LilacTree wrote:
@SilleeMee wrote:
@LilacTree wrote:
My right hand has just taken a turn for the worse. I am now wearing a vinyl glove to try to keep my fingers together. I can't use a brace when I type. Rheumatologist said surgery is the only treatment.

I researched yesterday and hand surgery in RA cases is not particularly successful. Many scars and sometimes increased lack of dexterity. It is my right hand (the deformity always appears first in the hand that's used most and I'm such a "righty" I doubt I will be able to type with just my left hand). I will discuss this with a surgeon, and in the meantime, the vinyl glove is helping.

Almost shed tears while researching and watching a video of hand surgery (really awful), but I didn't cry. I never cry about my health, just about everything else. I have been typing for over 60 years and using a computer for 36. Touch screens won't do much for me because one still has to type, e.g., on this BB.

This is not a surprise, I knew it would come. I just hate that it's here. I still feel lucky to be alive at this age and will just have to accept that life is going to be different in the coming months.

Oh it sounds very painful! I really feel for you. I have been told by my rheumy that I need hand surgery, too. But my hands are just the opposite of yours...my hands are frozen in a fixed semi-fist position. I can no longer move my fingers. I tell people I have manikin-itis. It's my way of saying sceroderma. Surgery would not be my choice. I am finally adapting to having bucket-carrying hands after having put up with this disease for 14+ years. In your case, however, surgery would be a step in the right direction and I hope you can heal well from it. I, too feel lucky to be alive after all I've been through with this terrible disease. No cure...just a lot of hope and lots of praying. Take care.

OMG how are you typing this then? I have scleroderma and Sjogren's too, so I don't know which one this is, although doc says it's the RA.

How are you able to type this? . . . I really would like to know what method you are using. My heart goes out to you. How do you manage everyday things? Is it both hands?

You don't have to answer my probing questions, just know that I'm sending you my strongest good vibes. You sound so brave.

LilacTree, I'm all thumbs! No pun intended but my thumbs are the only digits on my hands that stick out somewhat. So that's how I do it. You shoud see me trying to put on mascara!

Re: Failing fingers

Mmsfoxxie — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:07:34 GMT

Yes, @LilacTree, I have OA in the right thumb, feet, knees, back and hip. The only severe place is the thumb and knees.

When you still have your right mind, you're right....that's the most important place.

I'm 68, almost 69. What I meant was that around 60 is when most of my issue s started. The knees haven't been great since forever no matter what my weight is but I feel better when I'm skinny. Look better, too, lol.

Keep your head up and the good attitude. It helps. Hope you're exercising.

Re: Failing fingers

LilacTree — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:12:18 GMT

@hckynut wrote:

hi to you @LilacTree

really sorry to hear of yet more physical issues for you. i have OA in my 1st 3 fingers on both hands, the result of my 30 years of lifting heavy reel of wire which only accommodated using those fingers. more of an annoyance on mornings when i have to run hot water on them to open my hands than a real serious issue to me, considering.

know nothing about that type of surgery or anyone that has had it done. think if it were me, i would weigh the success % against the didn't work % before i would even think of having it done.

as for typing. have you ever considered a Voice to Text software like the 1 from Dragon?

my best to you and yours

hckynut(john)

Hi John, I've heard of Dragon, it's been around for years. I will try it, although I am very fussy about my writings re spelling, grammar, etc.

I doubt I will have the hand surgery, as it is not very successful in RA patients, I did a lot of research yesterday. It would probably wind up worse with more disfiguration. I have to think a lot about that. I'm like you in that way, the path of least resistance, so to speak, with this stuff.

Yes, OA is very different from RA. They shouldn't even use the same term "arthritis." I'm happy to hear yours is relatively minor. Have a great day. Ford

Re: Failing fingers

sidsmom — Thu, 26 May 2016 21:13:24 GMT

So sorry to hear this. Sounds like you have some good recommendations for voice to text programs...to allow you to continue to post.

I have a story suggestion you might relate to.

Her symptoms were the same even though she was 20+yrs younger.

I can't link, but

Google: Leslie Craine McDougall

That story might inspire you & give you hope.

Good luck, dear!