Regardless of your age and profession, your hands are constantly working. If you experience any problems with your hands, you can consult with an orthopedic surgeon to learn more about the condition and treatment options. It’s important to remember that orthopedic specialists are experts in musculoskeletal surgery and medical treatments.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is characterized by numbness and tingling in the hand, particularly at night, and may cause weakness and pain that extends up to the shoulder. These symptoms occur due to compression of the median nerve within the tunnel where it passes from the wrist to the hand. The tendons that move the fingers also travel through this tunnel.

Mild cases can be treated with wrist braces or splints that provide rest to the wrist. Corticosteroid injections into the tunnel can also be used to reduce inflammation and swelling. If these treatments are unsuccessful, or if the condition is diagnosed in its late stages, surgery may be required. The surgery can be performed under local anesthesia, and the patient does not require hospitalization.

Tendonitis of the Wrist: De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and swelling of the tendon sheaths that control movement of the thumb from the wrist to the hand. Pain is typically felt when squeezing or wringing out items, and a lump may be felt in the affected area. A common sign of this condition is pain that is felt when the thumb is directed towards the palm of the hand and the hand is turned inwards towards the little finger.

This condition can be caused by inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy, or overuse of the hand. Early diagnosis and treatment options include rest, stretching exercises, or steroid injections. If these treatments are unsuccessful, surgical treatment is recommended. A physiotherapy program is also recommended following surgery to restore hand function.

Arthritis of the Hand: Arthritis of the hand most commonly occurs at the base of the thumb, and pain is often worsened by the use of the thumb. Early treatment options include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and steroid injections into the joint. In advanced stages, surgery may be necessary to reduce pain and restore function.

Heberden’s Nodes: These are deformities that occur at the end joints of the fingers and are a classic sign of osteoarthritis. The protrusions are caused by damage to the joint surfaces. Heberden’s nodes are typically painless and do not require treatment. The main goal of treatment for these patients is to maintain hand function.

Dupuytren’s Contracture: This is a hereditary condition that results from thickening of a layer of tissue called the fascia in the palm of the hand. The tendons that control finger movement can become restricted due to the thickening of this tissue. Risk factors for this condition include a family history of the condition, smoking, vascular disease, epilepsy, and diabetes.

Steroid injections can be used for pain relief, but surgical treatment is the primary option. Surgery is performed when movement of the hand is restricted, and involves removing the tissue that is causing the restriction in the palm of the hand.

In conclusion, there are various conditions that can affect the hand, but early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent further damage and preserve hand function. If you experience any symptoms or discomfort in your hands, consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.