His thrust, however, was somewhat feeble, owing to the inflammation in his hand,

If you told me I had to hand in a roster tomorrow, I could do it. However, we know from experience -- at least from the last time -- a lot of things happen.

They gave me a shot to see if they can get the inflammation down.

It's a little slower process there because you've got to get that inflammation out of there. There's still a little discomfort there. It's considerably better, which is basically what we expected.

HAND, n. A singular instrument worn at the end of the human arm and commonly thrust into somebody's pocket.

I can't say I hate cats, but holy cow, dogs are a horse of another color.