thanks also for the suggestion about knuckle position... i shall try that out... i often wondered why some people say use pinky and ring knuckles, and others say use index and middle, others still middle and ring... what is the difference ? is it about alignment, strength of the knuckles, or what... my friend who fights muay thai says they use the index and middle but they also really rotate their arms when they punch-- they punch different than in boxing it seems... And as much as it sucks... i needed to hear to chill out and not rush back too soon... you're right: i'll just end up having to start all over again... that'd really really suck... but i do not look forward to going to the boxing gym all gimped up with only one hand... patience....patience....its not forever...