Our hands, arms, and wrists are active throughout the day. Right from getting dressed up to working and driving, there is almost everything that our hands do. When the muscles, tendons, and joints of these areas work as they are supposed to, the activities can be easily accomplished. However, it can become challenging to accomplish daily tasks when there is an injury or any other issue.
In these situations, it becomes necessary to see an orthopaedic hand specialist for the correct diagnosis and treatment before it worsens.
Who Is An Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon?
A hand and wrist surgeon has been trained to diagnose and treat hand, forearm, and wrist issues. Some of them are also experts in treating shoulder and elbow problems. Though these experts specialize in surgeries, they can also treat via non-invasive methods. They specialize in treating these areas’ conditions related to muscles, tendons, and joints. They can diagnose your underlying condition and recommend the best treatment.
What Symptoms Need You to See an Orthopaedic Hand Surgeon?
The following symptoms should not be ignored:
● Pain in your hand, wrist, arm, or fingers that lasts for more than a few days.
● Difficulty using your hand/ wrist while performing daily functions like using a keyboard or carrying a grocery.
● Joint pain which gets worse during the resting phase.
● Swelling or bruising near your wrist or hand.
● Limited and confined range of motion.
● Deformity in joints
● Signs of infection like fever, inflammation, and redness near your hand and wrist.
Which Treatment Options Are Available For Hand Injuries?
Though the hand and wrist surgeons are qualified to perform surgeries if needed, they consider it as the last option. The non-surgical treatments for hand and wrist consist of:
● Medicines- Anti-inflammatory medicines might be used
● Physical therapy and rehabilitation- Exercises can help patients gain motion and strength
Surgical treatments can consist of:
● Wrist arthroscopy
The surgeon uses a tiny camera, which is known as an arthroscope, as well as surgical tools for closely examining and repairing the tissues inside and around the wrist. As a result, the surgery leads to less pain and faster recovery as compared to open surgery.
● Carpal tunnel surgery
The tendon, which puts pressure on the medial nerve, is cut. It helps in eliminating the pain. Moreover, the gap gets filled up with scar tissue over time.
● Replantation
The surgery re-attaches fingers that have been cut off because of an accident.
● Tendon transfer surgery
A healthy tendon is transferred from the original attachment to a new one in hand. It leads to improvement in the hand function that was lost.
If you are experiencing finger, wrist, hand, and arm pain, you must never ignore it and make sure to visit an orthopaedic hand specialist. They are experts in the examining, diagnosing, and treating issues related to the hand. If you have difficulty in using your wrist or hand while performing daily functions, you must see a specialist. For example, if you are not able to grip a glass of water or carry grocery bags, you must immediately book an appointment with an orthopaedic. When you choose a hand and wrist surgeon, make sure you choose an experienced surgeon. An orthopaedist who is well trained and experienced will offer the proper guidance and consultation about non-invasive and invasive treatment options. In addition, safety and positive outcomes are assured when you work with an experienced hand and wrist specialist.
