I'm 19 years old and I have been diagnosed with chronic tendinitis about 2 years ago. The tendinitis is in my right hand around the index and middle fingers. The swelling has never subsided even with anti-inflammatory medications and the pain is starting to become much more severe than it used to be. My doctors just tell me to wear a splint and hand-wrap when it starts to bother me, but it really does not help at all. Because of the tendinitis, I have developed 'trigger-finger' in my thumb and I believe it is causing carpal-tunnel in my wrist.
I am worried that if it is this serious at the age of 19, what will happen in the future or near future? My doctor does not seem to take this as seriously as it is to me. I am worried about losing strength in my hand and the pain becoming overwhelming. I work two jobs, both of which I need to make use of my hand constantly. I work at a daycare, which involves picking up and playing with the children. Then, I hold another job at a banquet hall as a dishwasher, which is next to impossible by the end of the night due to the pain in my hand and wrist.
Does anyone know what I should tell my doctor so he will appreciate the seriousness of this situation? The pain is becoming much more severe and I don't know what to do.....or what will happen if I leave it untreated. Please help! Thank you