Loic Bullock

Answers to patient questions

• General topics
  Good evening. 3 weeks ago I had epidural steroid injections to my spine ( neck herniaC5-c6 ). I started my Physiotherapy week ago. Few days ago I received documents from hospital that I had two injection to my spine one on the 21st March (C5-C6) second one on 29 th March (C6-C7)I knew straight away that something was wrong . I couldn’t walk I felt so much pain . Second injection has been done incorrectly ( wrong place ). I can’t get in touch with my orthopedist (holidays) I completely don’t know what to do with it. It hurts all the time. Should I continue with my physiotherapy or stop it till I will have my appointment with my Physiotherapist(2 nd May 2024) ? Please help

  • I'm sorry to hear about your experience. Since you're experiencing increased pain and discomfort after the second injection, it's best to pause your physiotherapy and seek medical advice as soon as possible. Try reaching out to another healthcare provider, such as your general practitioner or a different orthopedist, for guidance on how to proceed and to address the issue with the incorrect injection. Your health and well-being are the top priority.

    

    Loic Bullock

• General topics
  Who do I see about wrist/thumb pain? I have had pain in my thumb and wrist, mostly when picking things up (like a mug of tea). I was rock climbing regularly when it started to bother me, and after resting it for two months, it still is causing me pain. There was no specific moment that caused the injury.

  • For wrist and thumb pain, especially related to activities like rock climbing and exacerbated by gripping or lifting, you should see a hand specialist. Here are your options for specialists and steps to take:
    
    1. Orthopedic Hand Specialist
    
    • These are orthopedic doctors who focus on injuries and conditions of the hand, wrist, and forearm. They can evaluate structural issues like tendinitis, ligament damage, or early arthritis.
    
    2. Certified Hand Therapist (CHT)
    
    • Hand therapists specialize in rehabilitation of the hand and wrist. They can help with movement assessments, strengthening, and pain management. O...ften, they work in conjunction with orthopedic doctors.
    
    3. Physical Therapist (PT)
    
    • A physical therapist can help assess functional impairments and provide exercises to improve strength, mobility, and reduce pain.
    
    4. Sports Medicine Physician
    
    • Since this injury likely originated from your climbing, a sports medicine doctor can evaluate overuse injuries and work with specialists to develop a treatment plan.
    
    Possible Diagnoses
    
    Some conditions related to your symptoms and activities include:
    • De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, common in repetitive gripping activities.
    • Tendinitis or Overuse Injury: General inflammation of the tendons from climbing.
    • Ligament Sprain or Tear: Minor or moderate ligament damage, which could still cause pain after two months.
    • Cartilage Damage: Rare but possible from repetitive stress or small undetected injuries.
    • Trigger Thumb: If your thumb feels stuck or clicks.
    
    Immediate Steps
    
    • Stop Climbing or Aggravating Activities: Ensure you’re fully resting the area.
    • Use a Thumb Spica Brace: These braces immobilize your wrist and thumb to allow healing.
    • Apply Ice or Heat: Ice for inflammation and heat for stiffness can provide relief.
    • Over-the-Counter NSAIDs: Medications like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation.
    • Seek Imaging if Advised: X-rays or MRIs can rule out structural damage.
    
    Since it hasn’t improved after two months of rest, it’s time to consult a professional to prevent chronic issues. Read more

    

    Loic Bullock

• General topics
  Hello, I have back pain problem and it is very disturbing me on my daily activities. Which doctor that I need to see first? GP or physiotherapist?

  • It's advisable to start by consulting a general practitioner (GP) first. They can assess your back pain, provide an initial diagnosis, and recommend a course of action. The GP may refer you to a physiotherapist if they believe it's appropriate for your condition. If needed, the physiotherapist can then work on specific exercises and treatments to address your back pain.

    

    Loic Bullock