cartilage problem treatment

Around 6 months ago, my left middle finger’s middle and bottom joints around the knuckle areas, started to be painful, particularly in the morning. When I tried to bend my middle finger, I feel the joint movement not smooth, kind of snap and bounce like a toggle switch.

I am unable to fold and curl my middle finger back to touch my palm, like trying to hold a fist. When I put my finger in hot water, the joint movement is smoother and less painful. I am taking Glucosamine Hydrochloride (1500mg) plug MSN (methylsulfonylmethane 1500mg) daily, but showing no help.

My doctor has X-ray and blood test for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Everything tested normal.

I have tried and see different physicians, physical therapist, orthopedic specialists; none offer much explanation or help. Except one athletic person suggested I have the “soft bone” problem. This soft bone is suppose to be part of the ligament and cartilage tightening problem. But he did not offer much solution for my problem, except that I should have physical therapy exercise.

Can anyone out there offer any suggestions? Thank you so much.

After 8 months of daily left middle finger pains, now my left thumb starts having the same kind of pain too.

thank you for your response.

It sounds like you did not have any specific trauma. You should see an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the hand - check the website for American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Also check www.aaos.org . If it is a cartilage injury supplements like Glucosamine usually do not help much since cartilage does not have the ability to regenerate although there is a lot of unfounded hype behind those products. There may be some other solution though. You should see a top orthopedic surgeon to find out exactly what is causing your pain. An MRI may be needed to look closely at the cartilage and tendons.

My doctor told me to take Aleve (200mg), two times a day.
Anyone out there has experiences with Aleve?