Advice from OT hand doctors

I broke my hand (boxer's fracture) about 10 years ago playing basketball. It required surgery and a small plate/screws. While it was never quite the same, it healed fairly well and I was happy with the results. I recall the surgeon mentioning that some people have issues down the road and end up getting the plate/screws removed.

About 2-3 months ago, it got really sore playing basketball although didn't recall a specific incident that day. Since then, the soreness has gone up and down but always slightly worse than it has been over the past 10 years. I'm able to do almost all of my usual activities with the exception of some weight lifting exercises that require a strong grip. Actively using the hand seems to be better for it than giving it rest.

I now live a couple of hours from the surgeon so I'm planning to give it another month or two and then get it checked out by someone else (closer to my house) if no improvement. Just wondering if anyone else has gone through a similar situation or has any advice.

FWIW, I'm fairly certain that this is not related to aids although haven't completely ruled out aliens.