About 3 or 4 years ago I hurt my wrist at work, I am not exactly sure but I basically pulled all the tendons from my hand to my elbow. The Dr. was one working for my EMP so of course he took the first chance he could to dismiss the case even though the physical therapist said I needed surgery. Basically he was wrong since it took 2 years till I could write more than a paragraph. It has gotten better but I still can not pipe icing for very long without a lot of pain, I can't do lace. I was wondering if any of you might have had a similar problem and know a way to help ease the pain a bit. I do not have insurance so surgery is out.

I'm sorry that had to happen to you. I don't know exactly what type of pain you are experiencing or even to what extent... but maybe taking some Motrin and using a heating wrap (like ThermaCare wraps) along with some Bengay (I know super stinky) under the wrap might help a little. I think I'd try the wrap by it's self first and then go from there. I have to use some of those heat wraps that they sell for my back every now and then and that works for me for the time being. Hope I've helped a little.

I use gloves when I decorate. I got them at my local Walgreens. Not sure what kind they are but I think you should be able to find some. It helps me a lot with my wrists and hands. Not sure why they help but they do.

i'm not sure what state you live in (oops, just noticed it says colorado), but here in california if you get injured on the job, the employer's insurance company has to provide medical treatment to you until your case is settled. so just because their doctor released you from care, doesnt mean that you cant contact them and say your arm is still bothering you and you need to see a dr again.

i'm a claims adjuster handling work comp claims for 30 years, so i know the rules here in calif. they differ slightly in every state. an injured worker has up to 5 years from the date of injury to ask for treament on an accepted claim, unless its been settled. you will know if you settled--you would have signed a settlement document and be given a check. so if that didnt happen, you need to check with your state to see what your laws are and what your rights are. you may be entitled to a second opinion by a doctor of your choice (that the insurance co has to pay for), or a state panel doctor. it isnt up to a physical therapist to say you need surgery, but you should see an orthopedic specialist, preferably one who treats upper extremities.

in calif, injuries go through the workers compensation appeals board, which is the court system set up under the division of workers compensation, state of calif. there are Information & Assistance officers that work for the state, that you can call for unbiased information. in calif, a person only needs to call information and ask for the number to the local workers compensation appeals board, then when they get the recording, ask to speak to the I&A officer. i'm sure there is something similare in all states. look in your phone book under "state of..." to see if there is a listing under workers compensation, or department of industrial relations, or industrial somethingorother. you can also check your yellow pages under attorneys section, ones that specialize in work injuries. most attorneys will give you a free consultation. you can get an opinion as to what your rights are in your state. you may be able to reopen your claim and get medical treatment.

if your claim was denied, you still might have avenues available to you to litigate the matter. no need in going through life with a bum arm and not getting treatment you deserve.

good luck

thank you very much for your help.