6 Common Hand, Wrist and Elbow Issues
posted by The Live Better Team | July 29, 2016
You should start treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome as soon as possible after you begin experiencing symptoms as prompt treatment will help improve your results. Mild symptoms respond well to frequent breaks to rest the hand, avoiding activities that cause symptoms and applying a cold pack to ease occasional swelling. Wrist splints, non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections may also help. Surgery by an orthopedic specialist may be necessary, however, if conservative treatments do not relieve your symptoms.
Treatment for trigger finger depends largely on its severity. Resting your finger may resolve mild symptoms, or your doctor may recommend wearing a splint. Over-the-counter pain relievers or steroid injections can also alleviate discomfort and provide temporary relief. If your finger is stuck in a bent position, your orthopedic specialist may recommend surgery to prevent permanent damage. Surgery for trigger finger focuses on releasing the tendon and widening the sheath, allowing the tendon to move freely.
Doctors usually recommend waiting and watching the cysts for unusual changes. If a ganglion cyst causes a significant amount of pain or interferes with activities of daily living, an orthopedic specialist may perform an aspiration to drain fluid from the lump.
Your orthopedic specialist may recommend medication to ease pain, reduce swelling, improve motion and address other symptoms of arthritis in the wrist. NSAIDs, for example, relieve pain and ease inflammation. Corticosteroids relieve inflammation too. Other osteoarthritis medications are also available to slow bone loss or help your body build new bone.
For more information on common hand, wrist and elbow injuries, contact Revere Health Orthopedics. Our orthopedic specialists care for you and your family using the same state-of-the-art techniques as we do with Olympic and BYU athletes.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. You should always consult your doctor before making decisions about your health.