Did you know that wrist and hand pain affects a significant portion of adults, with an estimated prevalence of 19.1%? For those affected, everyday tasks like gripping, typing, or even cooking can become challenging and painful. Understanding the options for treatment is the first step toward regaining mobility and quality of life.
At Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates, we provide expert, compassionate orthopaedic care to the Greater Pittsburgh community. Our skilled surgeons treat conditions like carpal tunnel, trigger finger, and Dupuytren's contracture. Using advanced techniques and a patient-focused approach, we work to restore function and relieve pain. Schedule an appointment today to start your recovery journey.
Now, let's explore the top five conditions that hand and wrist surgery can effectively treat and how these procedures can transform lives.
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common wrist injury that occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
Symptoms:
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects
- Pain or discomfort that may radiate up the arm
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive hand and wrist motions like typing, using tools, or assembly-line work. It may also result from underlying conditions like wrist arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, or hypothyroidism that contribute to nerve compression at the palm side of the wrist.
2. Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, affects the tendons in the fingers, often causing the ring finger or thumb to lock or catch when bent. This happens due to inflammation or narrowing of the sheath surrounding the tendon.
Causes:
- Tendon inflammation caused by repetitive gripping or excessive finger use
- Age-related wear and tear on tendons
- Underlying health conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
When severe, trigger finger may require surgery, such as tendon repair, to restore smooth motion and overall hand function.
3. Dupuytren's Contracture
Dupuytren’s disease is a condition where the tissue under the skin of the palm thickens and tightens, pulling the fingers (often the ring or little finger) into a bent position. Over time, this can impair hand function, making it difficult to straighten the affected fingers.
The exact cause of Dupuytren’s disease is unknown, but it is often linked to genetics and is more common in older adults. Surgical interventions, like Dupuytren’s contracture surgery, can help restore finger flexibility and reduce discomfort.
4. Arthritis in the Hand and Wrist
Wrist arthritis, often caused by osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis, leads to joint degeneration. Damaged cartilage in the wrist joints can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced wrist motion, making simple tasks like gripping or writing challenging.
Treatment Options:
- Early management with physical therapy or a hand therapist can help maintain hand and wrist motion.
- In advanced cases, wrist joint replacement or wrist fusion surgery may be recommended to improve joint stability and reduce pain.
5. Fractures or Severe Injuries
Wrist fractures or severe fractures caused by trauma, such as falling on an outstretched hand, can result in broken wrist bones or damage to surrounding blood vessels, healing tissues, and ligaments. Severe fractures may require surgery, such as bone grafts, fixation, or reconstruction, to restore proper alignment and hand function.
Treatment may involve traditional open surgery or minimally invasive surgery using a small camera and local anaesthetic. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for proper recovery and less pain.
When Surgery is Recommended
Non-surgical treatments, such as splints, braces, or medications, are often the first step for managing wrist injuries or conditions like wrist arthritis or tendon inflammation. Physical therapy can also aid healing tissues, improving wrist movement and hand function.
However, certain conditions may require surgical procedures when:
- Pain persists despite other treatments.
- The condition worsens, causing significant loss of mobility or finger movement.
- Complex injuries, such as severe fractures, broken bones, or damaged cartilage, need surgical intervention.
Types of Hand Surgery Operations
Surgery options:
- Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery - Relieves pressure on the median nerve, improving wrist motion and reducing numbness caused by blood vessel injury.
- Trigger Finger Release Surgery - The surgeon removes or repairs a small portion of the tendons to restore smooth finger movement.
- Dupuytren’s Contracture Surgery - Removes or releases thickened tissue in the affected area to restore finger flexibility.
- Joint Replacement or Wrist Fusion for Arthritis - Fixes wrist arthritis by stabilising or replacing damaged joints, enhancing wrist movement.
- Fixation and Reconstruction for Fractures - Repairs broken wrist bones or carpal bones, aiding recovery and improving function after a sports injury or trauma.
These procedures aim to improve hand function, alleviate pain, and enhance overall health for individuals dealing with hand or wrist injuries. Consulting with a skilled hand surgeon is essential to determine the best approach for your specific condition.
Move Forward to Pain-Free Living with Faster Recovery Time
Effective treatment options exist to address various hand and wrist conditions, from carpal tunnel syndrome to fractures. Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates is here to provide expert care, including orthopedic surgery, tailored to your needs.
Don’t wait to regain your comfort and mobility—schedule an appointment with Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates today. Our skilled team specialises in advanced hand and wrist treatments to help you get back to doing what you love. Contact us now to start your path to recovery!
