Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal

20 July 2007

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: February 2007
Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal (8.2.07)
Specialist review (15.2.07)

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: March 2007
2nd Specialist review (14.3.07)
Occupational Therapy (22.3.07)

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: April 2007
3rd Specialist review & 2nd Occupational Therapy (11.4.07)
3rd Occupational Therapy (19.4.07)
4th Occupational Therapy (27.4.07)

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: May 2007
4th Specialist review & 5th Occupational Therapy (9.5.07)
6th Occupational Therapy (23.5.07)

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: June 2007
7th Occupational Therapy (6.6.07)
8th Occupational Therapy (22.6.07)

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal: July 2007
9th Occupational Therapy & 5th Specialist review (4.7.07)
10th Occupational Therapy (20.7.07)

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Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

10th Occupational Therapy (20.7.07)

For the past 2 weeks, besides continuous stiffness from long inactivity and cold room temperature, I still can't crack my fingers and have difficulties counting numbers from inside out. My left wrist and fingers can also still feel the aching. This might be because I did not do the ball exercise for long interval...

This is the final time I'm taking bus #21 to TTSH... While listening to Shiina Ringo's "平成風俗", I am busy snapping shots of the roadside scenery from the bus...

Upon arriving at TTSH, I will always go for a toilet break at the toilet beside Clinic B1A before proceeding to the Department of Occupational Therapy for my appointment. Hand washing is essential before every session and I really love the fragrant scent of the pink soap...

As usual, Pei Fen conducted a Q&A with me. Being the last session, we had longer casual chat throughout...

Although the 15min fluidotheraphy never fail to make my left hand red, this hot grip treatment do help to reduce stiffness of the fingers. This is because the heat improves blood circulation... Like on the bus, I am crazily taking photos of myself while doing the treatment...


fluidotheraphy treatment

Occupational Therapy Review
Next, Pei Fen directed me into the exercise room where I am reviewed on my left hand at the BTE PRIMUS exercise machine. The review compared the percentile differences between my left and right hand through 3 types of grip tests on strength, movement speed and endurance level... Through this review, Pei Fen concluded that my recovery is fast and good, except that I am still suffering from muscle atrophy. I requested a memo from Pei Fen on my recovery for future reference and administrative procedures...

Graduation from Occupational Therapy
As today is the final session, I requested to take a photo with Pei Fen for memorial... I was given an open date appointment period for the next 3 months... Before leaving, I received blessing from Pei Fen and other staffs, who deem it as a graduation. They will welcome me back as a designer or volunteer if volunteering or community service is necessary during university life...

Hello & Goodbye Novena
After the treatment, I strolled around the shops and pharmacy. I had lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating chicken rice...

Next, I went for a long and satisfying shopping experience at Square 2. I ate a banana chocolate waffle, which is very crispy and delicious. I also drank a cup of green apple milk tea.

Being attracted by the retro-futuristic interior decoration, I walk into "The Attic" CD shop. "The Attic" just shifted from The Centrepoint and is only officially opened earlier today. I had a long and informative talk with the owner on music genre, US Import version and the record industry.

I bought a metallic silver SIGG water bottle for $33 from Outdoor Life at Novena Square...

Shopping at Orchard
I continued my enjoyable shopping experience at Novena with another long and enjoyable shopping at Orchard. I visited various shops like Topman, Gap, Fila, Sony Gallery and Isetan at Wisma Atria; followed by various fashion boutiques at B2 of Ngee Ann City. I also read up "oricon style", researched on summer hair styles and bought "NANA 17" at Kinokuniya. Shopping at Orchard is never complete without stopping by The Heeren for HMV.

I continued window shopping at The Centrepoint. I am surprise to know that "Supreme Audio", the huge CD shop that used to be located at Ngee Ann City B2 had shifted to The Centrepoint. For the longest time, I though the shop had closed for good. I had another long informative talk with the owner, whom I felt is like having a long chat with an old friend. We talked about the decline of J-pop, rise of K-drama and the record industry...

It is really great to discover (or re-discover) 2 great CD shops in a single day, as many familiar stores are closing down one from another. Especially so for CD shops... It is a pity that I do not have any new titles that I want to buy and both stores do not have stock of any item that is on my wishlist...

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10th Occupational Therapy (20.7.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

9th Occupational Therapy & 5th Specialist review (4.7.07)

04 July 2007

It's another long ride on bus #21 before arriving at TTSH... After listening to YUI "CAN'T BUY MY LOVE" during the previous trip, I'm back listening to Ito Yuna "HEART" again for today's journey.

Unlike previous Specialist review & Occupational Therapy combined appointments, which the Specialist review was scheduled at the earlier slot, today's combined session began with Occupational Therapy instead...

9th Occupational Therapy (4.7.07)
As usual, my Occupational Therapy treatment with Pei Fen began with the routine Q&A and some casual chat... Again, today's session started with the 15min fluidotheraphy, which is now situated at a rearranged corner of the room. I had to admit that I have fallen in love with the coffee-like scent of fluidotheraphy...

Next at the metal rack, I would need to shift numerous sand bags of 2+kg up and down the rack for 5min... After which, I proceeded to the BTE PRIMUS exercise machine in the exercise room. I am tasked to squeeze the grip handle, turn the medium screwdriver and the knurled knob, all of a higher force level. In contrast with the previous session, the increased in force level is not as demanding...

The Occupational Therapy session ended after some casual chat with Pei Fen...

Lunch
During the interval, I had lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating vegetarian food. I also had a cup of warm soya milk from mr bean...

5th Specialist review (4.7.07)
After registering myself at Clinic B1A, I was directed to the Radiology Department to have my X-ray taken. My specialist for today is Dr Gurdeep Singh. After examining the X-ray, Dr Gurdeep stated that my bone fracture has healed and discharged me, which is good news... As usual, I go to Orchard for some light shopping...

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9th Occupational Therapy & 5th Specialist review (4.7.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

8th Occupational Therapy (22.6.07)

22 June 2007

With the end of my 4 months MC, I returned to camp last week. After much rush and a long ride on bus #21, I am 30min late for the session today...

For the past 2 weeks, my left hand is very much overworked. This lead to much stiffness, aching and mild pain at the fracture, knuckles and wrist. There was mild swelling at the fracture; blue-black sensation at my 2nd, 3rd and 4th knuckles and reduced flexibility... Knowing this, Pei Fen noted that today's session will focused on grip strength...

Again, this session commenced with the 15min fluidotheraphy. As I didn't get much sleep in camp, I am really tired and sleepy through the whole session and I nearly fell asleep while doing fluidotheraphy. My tiredness is so obvious that even Pei Fen noticed it...

After fluidotheraphy, I proceeded to the BTE PRIMUS exercise machine in the exercise room, squeezing the grip handle of a higher force level. The increase in force level transformed this exercise into a demanding task. It made my left hand very much redder (it was already red from fluidotheraphy) and blister-like sensation was felt at the centre of my left palm... Concurrently, Pei Fen needs to attend to another patient.

Another therapist requested to use the BTE PRIMUS exercise machine, so Pei Fen brought me to the metal rack and instructed me to shift 4 sand bags of 2+kg up and down the rack for 5min. This exercise was very tedious for my wrist and biceps... Next, I'm back at the BTE PRIMUS machine. Being assisted by a therapist assistant, I would need to turn a knurled knob and a medium screwdriver. For both exercises, weight would be increased gradually. The knurled knob exercise caused mild pain and aching at my mid-joints and at the muscle group between my 4th and 5th metacarpal. The medium screwdriver exercise caused mild aching and tension at my wrist...

In contrast to the previous treatments, today session is among the longest in duration and the most tired. This might be due to physical fatigue and the increase difficulties of the exercises...

Being rather famished, I had an early dinner at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating lemon chicken rice and a big pau at B2 café before going to Orchard for some shopping...

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8th Occupational Therapy (22.6.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

7th Occupational Therapy (6.6.07)

06 June 2007

Today is the 6th time I'm taking bus #21 to TTSH and the 70min long bus ride has slowly evolved into an enjoyable experience... On the way, bus #21 would bypass Bedok Reservoir, Eunos, Geylang, Kallang and Jalan Besar before reaching Novena. Something unforgettable along the way would be the morning buzz at major bus stops, scenic Bedok Reservoir in the cool morning, busy traffic at Eunos, bustling Geylang Serai, Circle Line Stage 2 construction, funeral in a corner shophouse at Geylang Lorong 36, flats besides Kallang River that are due for demolition, hardware shops at Jalan Besar, City Square under construction, charcoal workers loading charcoals along Serangoon Road and the quiet Mcnair estate...

Besides admiring the roadside scenery, I would listen to my beloved discman playing the tunes of Yaida Hitomi "Single collection" (1st ride 22.3.07), Ito Yuna "HEART" (2nd ride 19.4.07), Every Little Thing "Crispy Park" (3rd ride 27.4.07), Shiina Ringo "平成風俗" (5th ride 23.5.07) and Ito Yuna "HEART" (6th ride 6.6.07) to kill time and prevent motion sickness...

Upon reaching my destination bus stop at St Michael's School, I would need to cross the overhead bridge and zebra crossing, before walking up Sinaran Drive to arrive at TTSH. This brisk stroll up the gentle slope act as an adjustment interval after the long ride on bus #21...

Today's session began with the routine Q&A and measurements by Pei Fen. For the past 2 weeks, there is still stiffness and aching at the joints when I wake up in the morning. Pei Fen explained that it is very common for many patients. I incidentally found out that pain can still be felt at the fracture while doing the wrist exercises to form a fist. I also told Pei Fen about the blue-black sensation felt at my 3rd knuckles, which Pei Fen said that massaging might help reduce that feeling. Above all, Pei Fen told me that my left palm is suffering from muscle atrophy...

Unlike previous session, we have a young secondary school teacher Ms Norshida (phonetic) as observer today. Ms Norshida is here at TTSH as part of MOE's effort to enhance Pastoral Care syllabus...

Again, the 15min fluidotheraphy made my left hand red instantaneously. Next, I am back at the BTE PRIMUS exercise machine, where I trained turning the knurled knob, squeezing the grip handle and turning the medium screwdriver...

Today treatment is a shorter one compared to previous sessions. After the treatment, I had lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating cai fan, before going to the pharmacy to buy a pink Stitch soft toy for myself... As usual, I go to Orchard for some light shopping...

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7th Occupational Therapy (6.6.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

6th Occupational Therapy (23.5.07)

23 May 2007

While going to bed last Tuesday night, I lost balance and accidentally used my left hand to support myself. This leads to sharp pain at my wrist and at the fracture area. There is visible swelling at the fracture vicinity the next day. But luckily, the swelling subsided after days of massaging... Other than that, there are the usual complains of aching and tension at my wrist, knuckles, mid-joints and at the fracture; plus pain at my 3rd knuckles...

It's another long trip on bus #21... As usual, this session began with Q&A and taking of measurements before the commencement of treatments...

Today's treatment kicked off with the 15min fluidotheraphy, which again makes my left hand turn red instantly... The red power putty exercise followed next, with the same set of exercises as the last session...

Next, Pei Fen brought me to the exercise room where I am introduced to a new exercise. At the gym-like BTE PRIMUS exercise machine, I am instructed to turn a large knock, 5 times each for clockwise and anti-clockwise for a total of 4min. After changing the large knock into a hook-like instrument, I would need to squeeze the hook for grip strengthening...

After the treatment, I go to Orchard for my routine shopping...

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6th Occupational Therapy (23.5.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

4th Specialist review & 5th Occupational Therapy (9.5.07)

09 May 2007

Monthly update
Another month has past... I am experiencing stiffness at the wrist, knuckles and the mid joints. I can't bend these joints, which the knuckles is the most serious. My 3rd finger is visibly shortened and I have problem straighten my 3rd finger. I also have difficulty pushing my wrist backward. Aching and tension can still be felt at my wrist, knuckles, mid joints and at the vicinity of the fracture, but with decreased frequency. Pain is only sensed at my 3rd knuckles. Plus while exercising, I can feel that my 2nd finger is jerking and the "clark-clark" sensation can still be felt at the fracture. In addition, I also experienced unknown swelling weeks ago...

Learning to wite with my left hand again
Since 29.4.07, I have been learning to write using my left hand. I am dexterous and this is my self-initiated exercise to improve flexibility of my left hand. I am born left-handed, but I'm corrected to right-handed at a young age. Although I can still write legibly using my left hand, my left-handwriting remains at kindergarten standard. By learning to write with my left hand again, I hope my left-handwriting would improve to be of equal standard as my right-handwriting soon...

4th Specialist review (9.5.07)
On the morning of 9.5.07, Mumy and I board the usual 70min bus #21 ride and we were actually early...

After registering myself at Clinic B1A, I was directed to the Radiology Department to have my X-ray taken. My specialist for today is Dr Leon Foo Siang Shen. After examining the X-ray, Dr Leon stated that recovering is good and scheduled my next appointment on 4.7.07, with a two months interval in between. Unfit for duty, I was issued another 30 days MC till 7.6.07. Dr Foo also issued an additional "light duty" plus "excuse left hand and upper limb" excuse till 7.7.07...

As my "AQUREA" moisturising cream is almost used up, I requested Dr Leon for another tube...

5th Occupational Therapy (9.5.07)
Arriving at the Department of Occupational Therapy, Pei Fen conducted the usual Q&A and measurement before commencing treatment. To further improve flexibility, Pei Fen recommended fluidotheraphy. For this treatment, I had to put my left hand into a machine filled with sand, which would be circulated by heat to about 43°C. I can still endure the heat initially, but as time goes by, the temperature gets to hot for my hand and I starts getting very uneasy and restless. Furthermore, I do not know how long this treatment would last. After the 15min, the fluidotheraphy ended, my left hand is completely red, which Pei Fen teased that I get red very easily...

Following next is the red power putty exercise. By squeezing the power putty with my fingers against my palm, I would be exercising the flexor muscles for a full grip. The second exercise requires spreading my fingers out fast to transform the power putty into a thick pancake shape and place my fingers on it. This would exercise the extensor and abductor muscles. For the next exercise, the power putty was placed on my palm. I had to dig my fingertips deep into the putty, which trained my flexor muscles and strengthens my fingers to their maximum closure. Lastly, I had to mould part of the power putty around two of my fingers while they are closed together and then spread them apart. This exercise trained the abductor muscles... After the tedious 12min power putty exercise, Pei Fen brought me to a rack and instructed me to move 5 water cans from one level to another for the next 4min...

Yellow stress ball
Before the end of today session, Pei Fen gave me a stress ball, which was also recommended by Dr Leon to reduce stiffness. The 1st and 2nd stress ball exercises are similar to the power putty 1st and 3rd exercise. The 3rd stress ball exercise is to pinch the stress ball between my fingertips and thumb. This exercise is good for the flexor muscles and improve dexterity...


my cute yellow stress ball

Bugis Waterloo Street
After everything is done, mumy and I had lunch at Bugis, before going to pray at Bugis Waterloo Street Kwanyin Temple...

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4th Specialist review & 5th Occupational Therapy (9.5.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

4th Occupational Therapy (27.4.07)

27 April 2007

By making an effort to wake up early, it gives me ample travel time and I am not late for my appointment... Today's treatment started with the usual Q&A. Pei Fen is down with sinus, so she is wearing a mask. Joan is attached with another therapist in another department.

Besides serious stiffness of my left wrist and some aching here and there, most other problems are in better control; or I'm already numbed towards them. For the past week, swelling has reduced. In fact after measurement by Pei Fen, my left palm is now smaller than my right palm...

To improve flexibility of my wrist and fingers, Pei Fen recommends hot wax treatment that almost scares me to death. To ease my anxiety, Pei Fen clarifies that unlike hair removal waxing; this hot wax treatment would not cause any pain or harm my hair. Dipping my left hand into the wax, I'm really terrified as the wax is really very hot. After adapting to the high temperature, I finished coating the first of a total of 8 layers. When done, Pei Fen wrapped my waxed hand with a tracing paper and a towel before returning to my seat. When the 10mins treatment ended, part of the wax is already stucked to the table. Pei Fen removed the wax much like removing a glove with no pain at all and the long hairs are still intact...

Next, Pei Fen wants me to exercise my wrist by turning a wooden reel for 10mins. For this exercise, tension must be felt at respective parts of my hand. As my wrist is still very stiff and, thus it is really tiring after that 10mins...

As Pei Fen is attending to other patients, I get to have a short rest. Pei Fen then helps me to wear a plastic glove and gives me a yellow patty to train soft grip of my left hand. For the next 4mins, I have to squeeze the yellow patty, which resembles play dough and plasticine. Gradually, my fingers start getting tired and the yellow patty starts to look like a pile of shit to me, which almost makes me burst into laughter. Pei Fen seems to notice this and questioned me what is so funny. Upon knowing the reason, she gave me a hilarious reply "shit don't come in this yellow"... For this exercise, I feel some aching, numbness and stiffness at my 4th finger...

After the treatment, I had lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating cai fan again, before going to City Hall for some light shopping.

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4th Occupational Therapy (27.4.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

3rd Occupational Therapy (19.4.07)

19 April 2007

A week had passed since the last Occupational Therapy session. After a long #21 bus ride, I'm again late for my appointment...

For unknown reason, my hand was very swollen. This is the worst swelling since the injury. This shocked Pei Fen, who instructed me to continue massaging my hand. To prevent the swelling from getting worse, Pei Fen recommended ice treatment and she had her intern Joan to carry out the ice treatment for me...

After the 10mins ice treatment, Joan massaged my swollen hand and she teaches me 2 more finger exercises and a wrist exercise... The first exercise requires bending of the knuckles only, which is very similar to a previous exercise. The second exercise is the bending of all knuckles and joints to form a hook. The wrist exercise is added to reduce swelling and to increase the flexibility of my wrist. It comprises a front-back and left-right movements. But due to the close proximity to the fracture, I am not able to complete this exercise as intended...

After the injury, my 3rd and 4th fingers appear to be about the same length. Pei Fen explained that the fracture had caused my metacarpal bone to overlap at the crack and this causes the shortening. This is very common in fracture... Pei Fen also clarified my query that exercises might more or less affect the wound, but the impact of dysfunction would be worst if I do not exercise my fingers...

For better conformability, flexibility, reduce swelling and to achieve better recovery, Joan adjusted my splint to make my fingers bend at 90º... During this session, I had lots of casual chat with Joan. Joan is a scholar of TTSH. Upon completing her attachment here, Joan will graduate from NYP. She will further her studies at the University of Sydney before serving her scholarship bond with TTSH...

After the 1.5 hour treatment, I proceed to meet Tian An at Orchard MRT station to watch "Nightmare Detective" starring hitomi. As Tian An said he will be late, I spend the time shopping in Kinokuniya. I also took this opportunity to sms Joanne and Wei Zhen on how to go to NTU Medical Centre for my Pre-Admission Medical Examination tomorrow. Suddenly, Joanne called me and we had a long chat over various random issues. As the two of us are hogging the lines, Tian An was unable to contact me when he arrived... At Cineleisure, the 1.50pm slot would leave us with little time for lunch and the 5pm slot is too late. So we decided to have lunch first before checking show time at Shaw House to find out that "Nightmare Detective" is not screen there. Thus, we walked to Plaza Singapura and decided on the 4.20pm slot... "Nightmare Detective" is those typical Japanese movie, which is being filmed too artistically that would easily bored and confused every viewer. I successfully struggled to understand the storyline, but Tian An seems really confused...

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3rd Occupational Therapy (19.4.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

3rd Specialist review & 2nd Occupational Therapy (11.4.07)

11 April 2007

Another month has passed. I have become highly addicted to SUDOKU these days... The 2nd and 3rd joints of my fingers are still swollen and I still experience pain at the fracture. Aching and numbness are getting more serious at the fingers, joints, knuckles, wrist, elbow, and at the fracture; especially when I am sleeping or while doing the finger exercises. Movement of my fingers are getting better, although I can still feel "clark-clark" at the fracture and my middle finger is still shaky...

3rd Specialist review (11.4.07)
Unlike the previous review, the registrar instructed me to proceed to the Radiology Department to have my X-ray taken first. 2 X-rays were taken today before I returned to Clinic B1A for my specialist consultation...

Dr Saiful is my specialist again. After examining the X-rays, Dr Saiful explained that recovery is good and I can had the cast removed. Dr Saiful also referred me to the Department of Occupational Therapy for a custom-make splint, which will protect my left hand. Unfit for duty, I was issued another 30 days MC till 10.5.07...

At the Orthopaedic Room, the yellow cast was removed. Bivalving of the cast is a terrible process due to the huge vibrating sensation. But being the 2nd attempt, I'm more mentally prepared. Firstly, the nurse placed the electronic saw on my right palm to let me have a feel of the vibrating sensation. It is only now then I realized that the saw cannot cut into flesh, thus ease my anxiety. The noisy vibrant removal process proceeded smoothly and safely. My left hand feels free after being casted for 2 months.

While wiping the casted area with antiseptic, large pieces of dried dead skin starts to peel off. As there are too many dead skins, I requested for another piece of antiseptic wipe from the nurse so that I can clean the casted area while waiting for the invoice.

Something very interesting is that dark long hair grows at the casted area. The hair are concentrated at the back of the palm and at the wrist. These dark long hair looks cute and I truly adore these dark long hair...


uncast


long hair

2nd Occupational Therapy (11.4.07)
At the Department of Occupational Therapy, my therapist Pei Fen examined my injury reports through TTSH intranet. For hygiene purposes, she asks me to wash my hands and more dead skins began to peel off. Washing my hands is such a refreshing moment. While waiting for Pei Fen, I continued peeling off dead skins...

After examining my injury, Pei Fen started moulding my splint. The purpose of the splint was to immobilize and rest my left hand to prevent deformity of my 3rd finger. I have to wear the splint for 24 hours, which can only to be removed for cleaning purposes or doing finger exercises. While waiting for the splint to be ready, I continue to peel dead skins off the casted area...


splint

After the splint was done, Pei Fen teached me 3 more finger exercises. The first would be simulating the 'squeezing the edge of the table' or 'holding a file' motion by bending the knuckles only. The next exercise starts with fingers straight, bending the knuckles and the middle joints only. The fingertip joints should be kept straight to touch the base of palm. I have difficult doing this exercise, but Pei Fen explained that this is an unnatural movement, so as long that I am able to bend the knuckles and the middle joints, it would be fine. The last exercise requires me to place my palm flat down on a table with fingers straighten completely and slowly lift the fingers off the table at the large knuckles. Pei Fen also modified the amount of repetition according to my feedback.

A special glove was given to me that will helps reduce swelling. After some Q&A, Pei Fen reassured me that my 3rd finger looks fine without twisting, even though it looks a little slanted. She said that by comparing my left and right hands, I would know if there is any deformity...

Finally, after 2 months of casting, I am able to take a full shower without any plastic wrapping... That feeling is really great!

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3rd Specialist review & 2nd Occupational Therapy (11.4.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

Occupational Therapy (22.3.07)

22 March 2007

After a long but refreshing 70min ride on #21 (that reminded me of TPJC days), I arrived a little late at TTSH Occupational Therapy Department.

Being my first treatment, the therapist explained what occupational therapy is about. Occupational Therapy is a type of treatment that uses activities to help prevent, reduce or overcome effects of disabilities. The fundamental purpose is to maximize functions and quality of life. She said that through Occupational Therapy, I am able to regain 70% of my grip after 3 months time from removal of cast, and chances of 99% recovery after 6 months time from removal of cast is high. Several activities like playing the piano can be carried out 3 months after the removal of cast, while activities like driving a car, riding a bike and playing of woodwind instruments is only possible after 6 months from removal of cast. Most importantly for now, I must not exert strength on my 3rd finger to prevent twisting, because if this happen, I will not be able to form a normal fist and functions of my left hand will be very limited.

During this session, the therapist teached me several finger exercises. But due to the restriction imposed by the cast, the therapist wants me to try these techniques as much as the cast allows. To reduce swelling, the 1st exercise requires me to elevate my hand above heart level and try to spread my fingers apart, then make a fist. Oedema control can also be done through massaging the fingers with moisturiser towards the body in one direction only.

The next finger exercise requires me to keep my fingers and knuckles straight, and then bend the middle and tip joints of each finger while keeping the large knuckles straight. This exercise was the first from a series of similar exercise to restore flexibility to my left hand.

Results for all exercises are best by elevating my hand above heart level, because gravity enhances fluids flow, thus reduce swelling. It would also be good for me to elevate my left hand above heart level whenever possible, like while sitting or sleeping.

To prevent my left elbows and shoulders to become stiff, an exercise consisting of raising my left hand up straight, touching the back of my neck and touching my shoulder blade is included. All exercises require me to hold the position for 3 seconds. I should do a minimum of 15 repetitions per session and at least 3 sessions per day.

The treatment lasted for slightly less than an hour and it was relaxing. Following the treatment, I had an early lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating cai fan again. After lunch, I went to shop for a while at Square 2, before proceeding to my much awaited trip to Orchard to replenish my stock of music and books to keep me entertained at home.

Upon arrival at HMV Heeren, Amuro Namie's latest DVD "BEST TOUR "LIVE STYLE 2006"" caught my attention. While listening to Hamasaki Ayumi's best album "A BEST 2 -BLACK-", I saw the huge promotion poster of Nakashima Mika's 4th original album "YES" at the rear, which leads me to search for this highly anticipated release, but to my dismay. The store assistants told me that the OS version of "YES" will only arrive later at 3pm, so I decided to try my luck at Cineleisure Sembawang and Orchard MRT CD-RAMA. After purchasing the "世界那么大" book from Kinokuniya and a stroll in Ngee Ann City, I returned to HMV at 3pm to learn that "YES" will only be released later that day, so I returned home.

That night, I received a call from HMV Heeren that my order for Namie's "Baby Don't Cry" is here. I'm happy and upset at the same time, because my long awaited order has arrived, but if it arrived yesterday, I could collect it when I was in the store this afternoon... The next day, I went to HMV Heeren in the afternoon to collect my copy of "Baby Don't Cry" and also bought a copy of "BEST TOUR "LIVE STYLE 2006"", "YES", Utada Hikaru's "Flavor Of Life" and GLAY's " rare collectives vol.2".

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Occupational Therapy (22.3.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

Article published in i-weekly (NO.490 22MAR2007)

19 March 2007

Everyday Life after I fractured my Left 3rd Metacarpal
Ever since I fractured my Left 3rd Metacarpal on 8.2.07 and was on long MC, I am living a holiday lifestyle similar to my long breaks after graduating from secondary and high schools... The only difference is, I am quite immobile due to the injury. Furthermore, I dislike going out, as my cast invites unwanted stares from strangers... Therefore, I will only run errands on days when I have medical appointments to minimize going out.

Everyday, I will wake up at around 1pm, bath, eat lunch at about 2pm and then idle at home. I will either watch video (J-pop live concerts or pv compilations), read about remixing and DJ-ing, work on my map research or update my blog at my computer. After which, I will bath, eat dinner at about 7pm and start watching TV. I will bath again before sleeping at around 1am... After my DVD player broke down weeks ago, I become really bored easily... Therefore, watching TV becomes one of my favourite pastimes...

"世界那么大" & "台湾脚逛大陆"
Of the numerous TV shows I watched, my favourite would be the travelogues "世界那么大" and "台湾脚逛大陆".

I first watched "世界那么大" on 15.2.07, while waiting for Papa to bring us out for dinner at Tampines 201 and I fell in love with the show instantly. This episode introduced Spain's Barcelona and Bunol, focusing on the La Tomatina festival. Host 小预儿 is able to present both educational and fun-seeking content in a natural and lively way. I am so fascinated by the show that I planned to watch it again during its 2nd telecast later that night.

While waiting for the 2nd telecast of "世界那么大" to start, I watched the 2nd telecast of "台湾脚逛大陆" and I was equally amazed by it. From then onwards, I become a loyal fan of both shows.

Regarding the content of the shows, "台湾脚逛大陆" introduced remote but interesting parts of China; while "世界那么大" brings viewers to various tourism destinations around the world that are unfamiliar to many. Both shows are able to deliver educational content (which has always been lacking in many travel shows) in a lively and relax manner that perfectly sets the mood for viewers to stay tune throughout the shows. Besides being professional as a tour guide and TV variety host, the 3 girls皮皮, 小预儿 and 柯以柔 also played hard when they introduced local adventure and entertainment.

Article published in "i-weekly 黑白讲"
The excellent quality of both shows inspired me to write an essay to "i-weekly黑白讲" to compliment the production teams of both shows for their hard work and performance. I wrote and submitted the essay on 15.3.07. To my delight, my article was published in "i-weekly NO.490 22MAR2007" (released on 19.3.07) and won the best article of the week. Although this is not the first time I am been featured on public media, this is the first time I am featured on a Chinese mass media. I am very happy, because my views and opinions are being accepted by somebody else. Printed below is my award-winning article.

Original Article:
非常喜欢U频道正在播映的 "台湾脚逛大陆" 及 "世界那么大". "台湾脚逛大陆" 让人重新认识中国而 "世界那么大" 所介绍的景点是许多国人认识不深或不会考虑去旅游的地方, 使人眼前一亮. 两个节目也以轻松的方式大量深入介绍异国当地丰富的人文历史, 非常有教育意义. 另外, 很欣赏主持人 - 皮皮, 小预儿及柯以柔以最自然亲切的素颜亮相. 好的旅游节目无须纳闷的角色扮演或夸张不好笑的呈现方式, 最重要的是主持人的专业, 内涵与节目的内容质量. (文彬)


My article published in "i-weekly 黑白讲" ("i-weekly" NO.490 22MAR2007)

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Article published in i-weekly (NO.490 22MAR2007)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

2nd Specialist review (14.3.07)

14 March 2007

It has been a month since my first specialist review on 15.2.07. For the past 1 month, my fingers are still swollen, but not as bad. Aching, numbness and inconsistent pain was experienced at the vicinity of the fracture. Movement of each finger was very restricted as I cannot bend the fingers individually. The middle finger was the worst, being shaky while I tried bending it on its own.

Upon arrival, I was referred to the Orthopaedic Room to have the cast removed. Although it sounds stupid, I feel a little unbearable to remove the blue cast, because there were several times when I incidentally bang my left hand against objects and this cast protects my left hand from further injury. But as part of recovery, removal of cast is unavoidable. The nurse warned me that the removal process is a little noisy, but it will not hurt. While I'm still interpreting what she was trying to say, she took out a machine that looks and works like an electronic saw and she started cutting the cast. Now then I start to understand what she was trying to say earlier on. While sawing, the vibrating sensation extends all the way down my spine and the noise produced was really loud. I was a little frightened that the saw might cut into my fresh, but luckily nothing happened. After about 5min of sawing, the cast was removed safely and the nurse wipe the casted area with antiseptic to remove dead skin cells, which helps to reduce itching.

As my left hand had being casted for too long, I'm not able to lift it up normally without support from my right hand. This constitute an awkward posture. I proceed to the Radiology Department to have my X-ray taken. While waiting for my turn, I spendt the time peeling off dead skin from the casted area, which started to itch. Lesser X-rays were taken this time and I returned to Clinic B1A to wait for my turn for consultation.

Dr Saiful Nizam Bin Subari is my specialist today. After examining the X-rays, Dr Saiful explained that there is recovery, but not as fast as the 1st review. My left hand will be cast for another month in order to meet the 6 weeks norm for casting (conservative) treatment. Dr Saiful also referred me for occupational therapy to reduce inflexibility after the removal of cast. Due to the cast, my left hand becomes very dry and scaly, so Dr Saiful prescribed a moisturising cream "AQUREA" to moisturise, hydrates and soothes the skin. As I'm unfit for duties, Dr Saiful issued me a 31 days MC till 13.4.07.

After the consultation, I went back to the Orthopaedic Room to have my left hand cast again; this time with a yellow-orange cast. I asked the nurse that whether the colours indicate anything (e.g. type of injury, duration of injury, status of recovery etc.) and he replied the colour is solely for fashion and aesthetic purpose only. I returned to Dr Saiful for him to inspect the cast and he suggested casting my left hand further till the cast is above the large knuckles to further restrict movements of the fingers, which he believe will up speed up recovery. Therefore, I'm back in the Orthopaedic Room again to modify the cast.


yellow cast

After payment procedure was done (but I don't to pay, as it is a service injury, TTSH will bill MINDEF directly), I registered for my first occupational therapy appointment before going to the pharmacy to collect "AQUREA". When everything was done, I have a late lunch at TTSH Kopitiam food court, eating cai fan.

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2nd Specialist review (14.3.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

Specialist review (15.2.07)

15 February 2007

I get to see the bone specialist on 15.2.07, a week after my injury... Dr Sreedharan S removed my cast to examine my hands and sent me for x-ray. Without any cleaning, the itch and smell from my left arm is unbearable, so I took the waiting time to wipe the casted area...

Back in the consultation room, Dr Sreedharan told me that my wounds are healing, but my third and fourth fingers are not aligned properly, therefore these 2 fingers are permanently deformed. This means that both fingers will be crocked throughout my life... He suggested sending me for an operation to insert a wire to adjust back my fingers... But the operation must be carried out asap as my wounds are healing, any delay would increase the risk and reduce the effectiveness of the operation... As a perfectionist, I'm rather keen on the operation as I do not want to have any deformity. Thus, an operation is scheduled for tomorrow and I had to be admitted immediately...

But on the other hand, the surgeon (he came to meet Dr Sreedharan for lunch) who would be operating for me discouraged me for the operation. He explained that the surgery will only adjust my fingers straight and will not improve the gripping power and agileness of my fingers. Furthermore, as per any operation, there is risk involve... Numerous doctors who are in the room (they are waiting for Dr Sreedharan for lunch) also weight in with their opinions...

After some consideration and discussion with Mumy, I decided to call off the operation and see whether my fingers will adjust back to its normal placement on its own... Knowing from the doctors that the gripping powers and agileness of my fingers will improve slowly, it is unlikely that they will be as good as what they used to be before the injury... Dr Sreedharan scheduled my next appointment to be on 14.3.07. He gave me 28 days MC till that date and recommended MINDEF to downgrade me to C2L2 (temporary)...

After consultation, my left arm was cast again using blue fibreglass cast, instead of the normal plaster cast...


blue cast

Knowing that my fingers would be deformed for life, I started getting frustrated very easily and signs of another depression are getting visible... Both tend to appear when I have illness or injury that do not recover quickly... Learning from my past experiences, I tried really hard to control my thoughts and emotions. I mediated to ensure I am optimistic... Together with my "spend as much $ as possible treatment" planned on Eve of Chinese New Year Eve (ECNYE), the joy generated from retail therapy (spending lots of $ in a day when sad or stressed) is indescribable! Negative psychological symptoms are now well under control...

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Specialist review (15.2.07)   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.

Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal

08 February 2007

My biggest headlines for the month of February 2007 would definitely be my hand injury sustained on 8 February 2007. For more information, please continue reading...

Broke 3rd & Fracture 2nd metacarpal bone (8.2.07)
I was having my Advanced Close Combat Training (ACCT) Grading on 8.2.07 3.30pm. After assessing the Techniques, I was paired up with Ken for the Fighting Combat Assessment. The fighting was intense. During the fight, my right hand lost grip of the blue pogo stick I was holding. Without knowing my situation, Ken continue fighting, causing my left hand to lose grip too. As I am not holding on to the pogo stick, Ken's 3rd blow hit directly on the back of my left palm. I tried lifting up the pogo stick again but I couldn't move my left wrist and 5 fingers... Thus the referee stopped the fighting and called for the medic (Hakim)...

My left palm is completely numb. I have no feelings when Hakim applied ice or pinched it. I tried moving my fingers, which only my little fingers could move slightly. Hakim bandaged my left arm to minimise movements and another medic Ken sent me to medic Yusof at the medical centre. Dr Yeo assessed my condition shortly. Dr Yeo noticed that my left wrist dorsum was swollen at the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal areas; with limited movement and decreased sensitivity of my fingers and wrist due to numbness at thumb, index and middle fingers. Suspecting it to be a metacarpal bony injury, Dr Yeo decided to send me to Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) for an X-ray...

As we need to be barefoot for the grading, I am very thankful to Cheng Yi, my secondary school friend, BMT company mate and current camp mate, who helped me to take my sandals. 3SG Kenneth also helped me take my hp. After waiting for a while, the ambulance was ready and I was accompanied by one of the medic to TTSH. As it was peak hour and CTE was very congested, the ambulance ride was very long and with the numbness fading, I start to feel sharp pain at my left palm.

Treatment at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department
Upon reaching the Emergency Department, I was attended at the triage shortly. The nurse asked me if I would like to have a painkiller jab, which she said would be painful. Thinking that the pain might get worse, I decided to take the painkiller jab. After the jab, I feel relieved, especially when the radiographer moved my injured hands to take several X-ray of the left arm. I am thankful that the radiographer Avila Villaruz was gentle and kind enough to minimize any pain while adjusting my hand.

I was attended by Dr Rafael Saclolo Pulido, who is very patient by listening to the whole process leading to the injury. After examining the X-ray, he told me that my 3rd metacarpal was broken and my 2nd metacarpal was fractured. He requested the radiographer for a more detailed X-ray of the palm. After confirming the injury, Dr Rafael told me that my left hand have to be cast with plaster of paris for 6 weeks from the elbow to the fingers. Dr Rafael instructed me on the position that my left palm and fingers had to be maintained (alike to holding a cup). Dr Rafael stressed that this positioning is important and asked me to bear with the pain, because this process will affect the healing process and future function of the hand and fingers. With the help of a patient nurse, the cast was done. I was given 10 days Out Patient Sick Leave. After getting all the reports and medicine, we took the ambulance back to Mandai Hill Camp...

Upon reaching Mandai Hill Camp, I had to report to almost everyone on my injury. When I reached my bunk, I was very thankful to friends who helped me to pack my stuff... I return the next morning to report to Dr Yeo on my injury and to endorse my MC. Dr Yeo downgraded me to C9 temporarily (actual process will only be carried out after I returned from my MC)...

Updates on daily routine
It is a blessing that I am dexterous. Normal routine is more or less affected, but after a few days, I'm adapted to it... The most troublesome thing to do is bathing, which was something I enjoyed very much before the injury...

My fingers get to move little by little over the days and with some effort, I can now manage to spread open all 5 fingers, but with some pain. However a crack sound and a sharp pain can be felt from my middle finger after closing it back... As my 3rd finger is slanted towards the 4th finger (which was reflected in the X-ray), I am worried it might remain crocked even after it recovered... I am also worried that my fingers are not as agile and flexible as before and I am unable to play musical instruments again...

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Fracture Left 3rd Metacarpal   © 文彬 2004~2024. All rights reserved.