Pacific Rim Orthopedic Surgeons
The hand is one of the most used parts of the body, indispensable for everyday activities and a range of actions too many to list. As the hands are almost always in use, hand injuries are very common, from cutting a finger while cooking to a strain in the hand from sports.
Explore some of the most common hand injuries and their causes along with the usual treatments available for them.
Finger joint replacement surgery, or arthroplasty, is most commonly recommended as an arthritis treatment that has caused significant joint damage in the fingers.
‘Hand surgery’ covers a wide range of different surgeries on the hand, from plastic surgery to restore the cosmetic appearance to surgeries meant to restore the function of the hand. Surgery on the hand can aim to relieve inflammation, and pain, repair tendons and nerves, or correct a deformity or injury.
Arthritis is a disease that attacks the tissues of the joints, of which there are three in the wrist and twenty-seven in the hand. While Arthritis comes in different forms, several of which commonly develop in the joints of the hands and wrist.
Tendinitis, or tendonitis, is an irritation of the tendon that causes it to swell and become inflamed. The condition is considered an overuse injury as it develops from repetitive strain of the affected tendon.
Dupuytren contracture, also known as Dupuytren disease, is a genetic disorder that causes the tissue under the skin of the palms and fingers to thicken and tighten. Though painless, its effects cause the fingers to bend to the point they can no longer be straightened.
Motor functions in the arm are primarily controlled by the radial nerve, including rotating the forearm and straightening the wrist or fingers. When compressed, these simple motions become difficult and painful, a tell-tale sign of radial tunnel syndrome.
A hand fracture is a break in any of the bones in the hand, both the phalanges (bones in the fingers) and metacarpals (long bones in the palm). These breaks typically occur from a fall, a crush injury, twisting injury, but can also occur from direct contact in sports.
A hand laceration is a deep cut, deep enough to have damaged the tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Most hand lacerations occur from cooking accidents (such as chopping) or broken glass.
These are both some of the most common muscle injuries and display similar symptoms, but involve different connective issues; with sprains, the ligaments have been stretched or torn and with a strain, the tendon or muscle has been stretched or torn.
Hand dislocations are more common in sports and specific occupations, and are typically minor injuries; though, if it isn’t treated or treated properly, a long-term disability can result from it.
Nerve injuries in the hand are generally caused by another condition or injury, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or a laceration.
The hand injuries listed above all have treatments available, ranging from invasive techniques like surgery to at-home care. Here are the most common treatments recommended for injuries to the hand:
Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture but may include immobilization with a splint or cast, pain management, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery to realign and stabilize the bones with pins, plates, or screws.
These injuries may require cleaning, closure with stitches or staples, and application of antibiotic ointment and bandages. Deep lacerations can require surgical repair, and a tetanus vaccination may be necessary if the wound is dirty or deep.
Treatment may involve splinting or casting to immobilize the hand and allow the tendon to heal, followed by physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion. In some cases, surgery may be needed to repair torn tendons
Treatment typically includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with pain management using over-the-counter or prescription medications. Severe cases may require splinting, casting, or physical therapy.
Dislocations usually require quick medical attention to realign the joint (reduction). After reduction, a splint or sling is usually needed, and physical therapy may be recommended to speed recovery.
Treatment depends on the severity and type of nerve injury but may include immobilization, medication for pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to repair or reconstruct damaged nerves. Occupational therapy can help restore hand function and coordination.