Hi all,

I am so undecided on this issue. I have a splint from a previous injury a few years ago and was advised to wear it. However, while there are times I feel it supports and helps my wrist, I mostly find it leaves my wrist very stiff and painful. What is the general thought of splints from the RA community. Your help would be very much appreciated.

I havent seen anyone regarding this (ie rheum nurse wise) so I dont have any advice to go on apart from Gp.

Another thing I wanted to ask you all...sorry I know questions questions!!

I have finally had a call from the rheummy nurse today regarding an appointment (should have been seen 4 weeks ago). However, she said that before I am able to start any treatment I need a lung function test. The consultant never mentioned this, and I cant see the nurses until I have had this test. Does anyone know why this is done?

As always your experience of these subjects is warmly recieved. xx

Hi Pet

Sorry missed the last part of your post.

I think the lung test will be to make sure you have no underlying lung problem before you start meds because certain medications can cause lung problems and obviously there may be contra indications if there was a problem.

I never had a lung test before starting mxt and a recent scan showed a mild lung disease dating back years. That could have had huge implications for me so I count myself lucky. I must ask next time I go to clinic why I never had one.

I hope your appointment goes well

Sheila X

Hello

I think I would be inclined not to use your current splint as it may not be suitable for the present structure of your wrist/hand and could actually be supporting it in the wrong position. It is always worth getting these things organised by an Occupational Therapist to ensure it is the right type of splint and also correctly fitted. They will also be able to advise how long you should wear the splint and whether an alternative resting splint is needed. Your rheumatologist should have referred you for this advice at the outset. Worth following up if not.

As Sheila and Rose have said, Lung Function tests are often done to assess lung condition before DMARDS are started. Good luck with it

Lyn x

i have wrist splints from o/t and find them ok,as said wear when needed,they do make a defference for me, i also have night ones which she made for me, these i find a bit off when trying to sleep, so tend to use for 1/2 hour or so before i settle for the night,i havent had a lung test so will look into that,good luck on your test.