Left hand index finger opens fine but won't close due to pain in second knuckle (from fingertip). At the base of that knuckle, it feels like I'm being stabbed with a hot needle. Also there appears to be what I'm guessing is a swollen flexor tendon right in the center of that knuckle. Looks like a vein that's popped out or something. Anybody experience a similar problem? I've been munching fish oil, bromelain, glucosamine/MSM/chondroitin, and turmeric for a couple weeks with no real change. In two weeks I've scheduled an appointment with a hand Doctor with possible trigger finger surgery if deemed appropriate. I am a touring professional and am quite freaked out about the whole thing but it's getting almost too painful to play. Any helpful advice from aging guitar geezers?