Another x-ray is taken.  Dr. Gelb "could not be happier" with the healing.  WHEW.  I am relieved given the risks I took in delaying therapy by my extensive search for the right therapist, and by my aggressive approach to returning to workouts and activity.  I feel validated in my "throw the book at it" approach to taking care of myself during healing.

One question I asked was:  Can I let pain and swelling be my guide in returning to activity?  and Dr. Gelb said "Yes". 

Never since the surgery did I have any real pain.  I did have some swelling after activity, but I also learned ways of controlling it.  I feel that the combination of having an outstanding surgeon, of having strong wellness habits before the injury, of a support system of healers and therapists, and of simply making the effort, lowers that curve of tension between the immobilization requirements of bone healing and return to activity.  By firmly immobilizing the fracture with three screws, Dr. Gelb gave me a little more safety against any excesses of activity.  Perhaps this opens up bandwidth for earlier return to activity than current hand therapy protocols allow?