Hands are special structures we humans possess. There are many important structures in the hand including nerves, blood vessels, tendons, bones and joints.
There could be problems originating from any of these structures. I am going to explain some of the common problems we face as hand surgeons.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, which is due to a trapped nerve in the wrist. This causes pain in the hand especially at night and it can be very annoying as it can cause disturbed sleep due to this night pain. There could also be altered sensations in the hand and weakness of small muscles of the hand, which could in turn cause problems with the function of the hand. This can be treated with splinting, local injections, physiotherapy treatment and sometimes a minor surgery becomes necessary.
Trigger finger, which is painful clicking of finger joints due to the flexor tendon getting caught as it slides during movement. This condition can be very painful and it can occasionally affect babies also where the finger joint is usually stuck in one position. This can be treated with medications, finger injections and occasionally surgery becomes necessary.
Tenosynovitis, which is a painful condition of wrist, finger or thumb joints due to inflammation of the covering of the tendons and joints called synovium. This is treated with splinting, medications, local injections, physiotherapy treatments and occasionally surgery.
Finger contractures, which is usually painless contractures of fingers due to many causes including old injuries. Surgery is usually necessary to treat this problem.
Most problems with the hand can be treated effectively if they can be diagnosed early and often can be fully cured without any long term issues. It is important to consult with an Orthopaedic or Plastic surgeon who specialises in hand surgery to effectively deal with these problems.
– Dr S S Kumar
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