RDH, P.O. Box 3408, Tulsa, OK 74101; [email protected] or (918) 831-9804 (fax).
Dear RDH,
Finally, an article about arthritis of the thumb (December 2008 RDH)! I've seen plenty of information about the neck, back, carpal tunnel, etc., but have never recalled any articles about thumb arthritis. I never knew it was a common area for osteoarthritis in women over 40 until I was diagnosed with it earlier this year. I have been practicing dental hygiene for almost 20 years, as well as designing and producing jewelry, so I give my hands plenty of abuse. But I was still shocked to learn that the pain I had been experiencing was from arthritis!
I was so excited to read Colene House's article, but so sad to have her end her article with no hope of recovery or repair. I have recently undergone “carpometacarpal joint soft tissue interposition arthoplasty” to rebuild the joint. I won't get my cast off until Dec. 29, 2008 (after press deadline for this issue), but I will be happy to let you know how my recovery progresses if anyone is interested. Please spread the word that you don't have to give up your career — there may be other alternatives available.
Karen Hornor, RDH, CDA
Newark, Delaware
