Numbness and Pain: My Experience with Tenosynovitis
Hello everyone, I'm a 33-year-old woman weighing 275 pounds, currently prescribed 20mg of Citalopram and 40mg of Vyvanse. **Timeline of My Condition:** I first noticed something was wrong on June 28th, and the pain has been worsening since then. I returned from the emergency room where I was informed that I have tenosynovitis. On that morning of June 28th, I awoke to find my arm completely numb. When I attempted to shake it awake, I heard a popping sound. The discomfort began at that moment, but I delayed seeking help due to the lengthy wait times at our local hospital. Yesterday, the pain had escalated to a level that significantly impacted my daily life and mood; moving my arm became a struggle. I had been driving frequently, often resting my wrist under the steering wheel, which likely exacerbated the situation. The doctor prescribed me Naproxen for a duration of ten days and confirmed the diagnosis of tenosynovitis. Now, I'm curious if I should consider wearing a splint for support. Will this medication facilitate healing, or might physical therapy also be a necessary step in my recovery?
Answers (1)
7/20/2025, 12:40:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with quite a challenging situation regarding your tenosynovitis. I want to address your concerns about pain management, support options like splints, and potentially needing physical therapy.
Main Points:
- Medication (Naproxen) will help with pain relief and reduce inflammation.
- Wearing a splint can provide support and limit movement, aiding recovery.
- Physical therapy might be beneficial after your initial recovery for strengthening and improving function.
Explanation:
Tenosynovitis occurs when the sheath surrounding a tendon becomes inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, and motion difficulties. Your experience of numbness and pain, especially after activity like driving, indicates the need to protect the affected area.
Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps with pain relief and reducing inflammation. This medication will support your recovery in the short term but is often most effective when combined with other supportive measures.
Next Steps:
-
Consider Using a Splint:
- A splint can stabilize your wrist and forearm, reducing strain on the affected tendons. It's especially useful when resting or during activities to prevent further aggravation.
- You can purchase an over-the-counter wrist splint or ask your doctor for a recommendation.
-
Continue Taking Naproxen:
- Follow the prescribed dosage for the full ten days. If you experience any side effects or if the pain worsens, record these details for your future health assessments.
-
Monitor Your Symptoms:
- Keep track of your pain levels, any numbness, and how they respond to resting, using the splint, and taking Naproxen.
-
Explore Physical Therapy:
- After your pain starts to improve, especially if acute pain subsides in a week or two, consider physical therapy. A therapist can create a tailored program to enhance strength and flexibility, preventing future episodes.
-
Rest and Modify Activities:
- Reduce activities that exacerbate the pain, like driving for long periods. Focus on gentle movements as tolerated to prevent stiffness.
Additional Support:
- If you find that your pain persists or affects your mood significantly, consider discussing these concerns with your doctor. They can provide reassurance and potential adjustments to your treatment plan.
Remember to take this one step at a time and prioritize your comfort during recovery. Please let me know if you have further questions or need more specific advice!
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