When to See a Hand Specialist

hand specialist

By Timothy B. Larson, M.D.

From the moment we reach for the alarm clock in the morning to the time we switch off the last light for the day, our hands are in motion. As essential as our hands are for the activities of daily living, we often take them for granted. All of the action our hands get leaves them susceptible to cuts, bruises and overuse injuries. Problems can also occur in the muscles and joints of the hand and wrist due to wear and tear, disease or injury.

Early diagnosis and treatment of a hand or wrist issues may resolve a problem before it can affect hand function, and possibly prevent the need for surgery. That’s why it’s important to see a hand specialist for a condition that may seem trivial.

“As an orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in the treatment of hand and wrist conditions, I aim to restore hand mobility and relieve pain through the least invasive approach whenever possible,” said Dr. Timothy Larson of Orthopedic Surgery Specialists. “When you experience a hand or wrist problem, it can hinder your active lifestyle. I make it my goal to get your fingers and hands moving again.”

Know the Signs of Trouble

To get back to what matters, it’s important to seek treatment from a hand surgery specialist as soon as possible. Hand and wrist conditions may become evident through swelling or joint or bone deformity. Other symptoms of hand/wrist diseases and conditions that are often evaluated and treated include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness and joint stiffness.

Here are some symptoms that, if experienced, should prompt you to see a hand specialist:

  • Pain upon starting an activity, followed by ongoing pain and stiffness
  • Weak grip or difficulty carrying a bag or other item with a handle
  • Pain extending to the elbow
  • Diminishing muscle tone in the hand
  • Joint inflammation or warmth upon touch
  • Tingling or numbness in a finger or fingers
  • Morning/night hand numbness or pain
  • Deformity of the hand or fingers

Any of these symptoms may warrant a diagnosis through physical examination alone. More advanced symptoms may require X-rays or testing to determine the health of your joints and muscles.

Common Hand and Wrist Conditions

Osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” arthritis of the joints that we commonly see as people age. The good news is that unlike many other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis does not affect other organs of the body. Still, the pain and swelling that often comes with the condition can complicate everyday activities and diminish ones quality of life over time.

With osteoarthritis, joint pain usually worsens later in the day and after repetitive use of a finger, hand or wrist. Stiffness in the affected joint can occur after a long period of inactivity.

In addition to osteoarthritis, many adults are treated for nerve compression conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome. Numbness and tingling are common with both conditions.

With carpal tunnel syndrome, symptoms primarily affect the hand and forearm, but they can also radiate up to the shoulder. The symptoms often occur in both hands but may be worse in one hand than the other. Repetitive hand motions (beyond computer use) are often the culprit.

In contrast, cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve, which passes close to the skin’s surface in the area of the elbow commonly known as the “funny bone.” You’re more likely to develop cubital tunnel syndrome if you repeatedly lean on your elbow or bend your elbow for sustained periods, such as while sleeping with your hand crooked under your pillow.

Rely on Expert Hands for Your Hands

Not all pain in the hand or wrist is caused by one of the above conditions. It’s best to rely on a trained hand surgery specialist to evaluate, diagnosis and treat any unusual symptoms you may experience in your hand or wrist. Improved quality of life may come with some simple joint rest and/or light physical therapy. If another course of treatment is needed, remember, you’re in good hands.

Dr. Timothy Larson is Denton’s only orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in endoscopy for carpal tunnel syndrome, small joint arthroscopy and the administration of Xiaflex® injections for treatments of the hand. For more information about Orthopedic Surgery Specialists, a Texas Health Physicians Group practice, call 940-323-3400 or visit OrthoSurgeryDenton.com.