DEAR DR. GOTT: I have constant pain in the base of my thumb near the wrist. In the last 10 months it has been swelling more, and I am unable to open jars or wring anything out. An X-ray showed a cyst in the joint. There is no infection. Is there anything other than surgery that will stop the pain? Ibuprofen is not working.
DEAR READER: If you haven’t already, request a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. He or she may be able to aspirate the cyst (drain with a needle and syringe). You will likely receive a local anesthetic beforehand and the procedure can be done in the office. The cyst may return, during which time you can have it aspirated again or opt for surgical removal.
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