I need some quick advice. I am experiencing a total lock on my middle finger. Which is horrifying. I make my living as a guitar player. Help

[woodpicks9]

I take care of myself. What could be the cause of this devastating malady?

[cathie]

RA tends to be much more systemic than a single joint. I would get it checked out - a physio might help. My partners sister is a pianist (professional) and she found that hand problems could be sorted out through posture and exercise. I really hope you can find a way through this

[nomoreheels]

I'm not medically trained, but do suffer this in my middle finger left hand & locks against my palm. It's another symptom of my RA, though if you take a look at this it link it can happen if you have no other symptoms. nhs.uk/conditions/trigger-f...

Hope this helps.

[Pipcat15]

Carpal tunnel. Trigger finger perhaps. I don't want to scare you. Maybe you need to get it looked at by the doc

[nomoreheels]

I'm not thinking it would be carpal tunnel, from your description, they're not typical symptoms. My experience of CT was more tingling & dull pain in my middle finger, index finger & thumb & pain right up to my shoulder before CT release. You say it's a total lock. If you warm your hands, massage around your finger with an emollient cream or gel (I use arnica gel) & gently try to free it, not forcing in any way, you may find it will release bit by bit. This is what I do in the morning when mine's locked in my sleep. It does jump into a crooked position as I try & straighten it before it finally frees but it does eventually.

As you make your living with your hands a visit to your GP may be an idea, just in case you're doing further damage if you're trying to use it.

[Footdoc]

Hi there

I have this a fair bit. I have PsA with a lot of enthisitis. I have been given Diazepam by my GP as they do help smaller muscles relax overnight. Then there is the dreaded short sharp dose of steroids. Worst case scenario a steroid injection, via ultrasound, that finger has been brilliant for 4 years now. See your OT for some night splints.

My heart is with you!

Footdoc