Hi again,

Well I saw my pain doc. There's a good chance it is the CRPS on my right hand. If the pain and stiffness was just mornings, or was only brought on by certain activities, it might be a type of arthritis, but with the stiffness and pain so random/frequent, and the heat, swelling and sensitivity, odd pains etc it's more CRPS-like.

I play the piano, do a lot of cooking, write short plans and reports, etc., and I think exercising that hand has kept it strong as long as it has. I'll be keeping going until I can't press the keys down anymore. I think physio is vital to keep things moving, but for me it's my own hobbies and activities that have kept me busy and moving. Physio stuff got boring and repetitive, and although we have to do it and I agree with the principle, I think finding something you enjoy that uses that limb is far more enjoyable and you are far more likely to do it!!

I like games too, but the only issue for me with hand held games is that the movements tend to be very small but repetitive, and can cause cramping and exacerbate the pain in one area. Fine for short periods, but I can't do it for long. A variety of different things works better for me. If you do play a lot of computer games etc., make sure you stretch your hand out frequently and rotate your wrists to keep your blood flow high.

It's sometimes a bit depressing seeing my pain doc these days, because she has tried many of the meds and they don't work. The next move in meds is opiates, and if I do those I won't be able to do the work I do. On the other hand, it looks like she's got me into an IvIg research study, so that's a big deal and something to plan for...

Take care today. Best leave this now, my hands are getting tight!!

Bram.