Hand Conditions

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hand, fingers and wrist. Osteoarthritis is the most common and is the wearing away of cartilage that caps the bones in your joints. Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune diseases in which the immune system attacks your joints. Arthritis can cause pain, swelling and stiffness or your joints. As it progresses, it can be difficult to use your hands as normal. Arthritis pain can be managed with medications, bracing, injections and even surgery.

Broken bones and dislocations in the hand and wrist often result from a traumatic incident. The area will be painful and swollen with limited range of motion and can feel weak. It may visually look deformed or misshaped. An orthopaedic specialist can recommend the best treatment options for your injury.

The median nerve is one of the main nerves running from your neck to your hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve at the level of the palm. It results in numbness and tingling, pain, or weakness in the fingers and hand. If using a brace hasn't improved your symptoms and it is interfering with your activities or sleep, it is time to see an orthopaedic specialist.

The ulnar nerve is one of main nerves that run from the neck to the hand. When it becomes compressed at the elbow, it can result in cubital tunnel syndrome. Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause numbness and tingling, pain and/or weakness in the hand and fingers. Nonsurgical treatments include bracing and changes in activity. If these don't improve the condition, surgery may be recommended.

Nerve lacerations are typically caused by an accident or injury. Surgery is often required to repair the damaged nerve.

Tendons connect muscles to bones. If a tendon experiences a deep cut, it can require surgery depending on how it has torn.

Trigger finger causes catching and locking of fingers and can make your fingers gets stuck in a bent position. You may feel a snap or pop when you straighten your finger. This is caused by inflammation around the tendons that help flex your finger.

Over the counter anti-inflammatory medications (sometimes called NSAIDs) such ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can help alleviate pain associated with the hand and wrist. Diclofenac (Voltaren) gel is a topical anti-inflammatory that is often recommended. Prescription NSAIDs are also frequently prescribed. Note that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is not an anti-inflammatory medication; it can help relieve pain but doesn't contain any anti-inflammatory properties.

Braces are removable devices used to stabilize and minimize movement in an area. They are commonly used to relieve symptoms of arthritis and carpal tunnel. They can also be used to treat certain broken bones or dislocations.

Steroid injections, or cortisone injections, is a treatment used to reduce inflammation in an area, which often results in less pain. Injections help manage pain from arthritis as well as tendons issues such as trigger finger.

There are numerous minimally invasive surgery options that can vastly improve the quality of life for someone experiencing chronic pain. Surgery can sometimes be used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve issues and acute injuries. Small joint replacement (finger, knuckle and wrist joints) can be used to treat arthritis. If surgery is recommended, our providers use methods that have been backed by research, including some minimally invasive surgical techniques.