What Conditions Do Hand Doctors Treat? When Do I Need to See a Specialist?
Your hands are an essential part of your daily life, involved in nearly every task you perform. Without them, things like writing, cooking, typing, and brushing your teeth are difficult to do. Fortunately, there are usually many warning signs that lead up to the loss of hand usage.
Chronic pain, numbness, stiffness, and reduced mobility are among the many red flags that indicate a problem in the hand and wrist area. If these symptoms persist, it may be time to see an orthopedic hand doctor for specialized care.
You may be asking, “At what point do I contact a hand doctor near me? And what should I expect in terms of treatment?”
Let’s explore the most common signs your hands require medical attention, focusing on how orthopedic hand doctors restore hand and wrist function, manage pain, and promote long-term health.
What Is a Hand Doctor?
A hand doctor, also known as an orthopedic hand specialist, is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the hand, wrist, and forearm. These doctors are trained in both surgical and non-surgical treatments to address issues within the musculoskeletal system of the hand, including bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
Hand doctors treat variety of conditions, including:
- Arthritis.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Tendonitis.
- Fractures and dislocations.
- Nerve injuries.
- Chronic hand pain and stiffness.
When Should I Contact a Hand Doctor Near Me?
Some people have a high tolerance for pain and discomfort; however, ignoring the warning signs of a hand or wrist issue can lead to bigger problems. Early intervention helps prevent more serious hand and wrist complications while improving the chances of successful treatment. Call a hand doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Chronic Pain or Discomfort
Pain in your hand or wrist that persists for weeks or months is a clear signal that something is wrong. A variety of conditions cause chronic pain, including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, or tendonitis. If over-the-counter pain medications or rest don’t alleviate the discomfort, it’s time to consult a hand doctor to identify the underlying cause and explore treatment options.
Chronic Stiffness
If you frequently experience stiffness in your hand or wrist, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, it could be a sign of conditions like arthritis or joint inflammation. Stiffness can make it difficult to perform simple tasks and may worsen over time without treatment.
Reduced Range Of Motion
A noticeable reduction in your hand or wrist’s range of motion may indicate joint or tendon issues. Restricted movement affects your ability to carry out daily activities and warrants an evaluation by an orthopedic hand doctor.
Weak Grip
If your grip has become noticeably weaker, you may be dealing with a hand or wrist issue that requires medical attention. Hand weakness is caused by conditions like nerve damage, tendon injuries, or degenerative joint diseases.
Swollen Tissue Around a Joint
Swelling around the joints of the hand or wrist indicate inflammation, infection, or injury. While occasional swelling from minor injuries is common, persistent or severe swelling is a cause for concern and should be evaluated by a hand doctor.
Tingling or Numbness
Tingling or numbness in your fingers, hand, or wrist is often associated with nerve compression or damage. Carpal tunnel syndrome, for example, is a common condition that causes numbness or tingling due to pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to contact a hand doctor for a carpal tunnel evaluation.
Muscle Loss In the Hand
Muscle atrophy in your hand is a sign that you may have nerve damage or a degenerative condition. If your hand appears smaller or weaker than usual, or if you notice visible changes in muscle tone, contact a hand doctor for an exam.
Difficulty Performing Simple Activities
Struggling to complete everyday tasks such as writing, buttoning your clothes, or brushing your teeth indicate there’s a serious issue with your hands. A loss of strength and fine motor skills means it’s time to seek professional help.
What Treatments Do Orthopedic Hand Doctors Provide?
Hand doctors treat any musculoskeletal issue affecting the hand or wrist, including acute injuries and chronic conditions. The cause and severity of your hand and wrist symptoms inform the hand doctor’s treatment plan, which may include:
- Physical therapy: Hand doctors and physical therapists work with patients to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hand and wrist. Exercises and stretches are tailored to the patient’s needs and can help restore function over time.
- Medications: Depending on the condition, your hand doctor may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Common medications include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections.
- Splints and braces: For certain injuries or conditions, immobilizing your hand or wrist with a splint or brace can promote healing and reduce strain. Bracing is often used for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, ligament injuries, and fractures.
- Nerve release surgery: If you’re dealing with nerve compression that causes chronic pain or numbness, your hand doctor may recommend nerve release surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve and restore sensation and function.
- Tendon or ligament repair: For hand injuries that involve torn tendons or ligaments, surgery may be necessary to repair the tissue and fully restore function. Your hand doctor will oversee the surgical process and monitor your recovery.
- Joint replacement or fusion: Patients with severe arthritis or joint degeneration may benefit from joint replacement or fusion surgery. Orthopedic hand doctors can replace the damaged joint with a prosthetic. They can also perform a fusion surgery, a procedure that permanently fuses two bones within a joint together to reduce pain and improve stability.
How to Contact a Hand Doctor Near You In Wichita
If you’re experiencing chronic pain, stiffness, weakness, or difficulty performing simple tasks with your hands, it may be time to contact an orthopedic hand doctor. Early intervention helps prevent further damage and improves the chances of successful treatment. Prompt medical attention also addresses symptoms that affect hand and wrist function and your quality of life.
To see a hand doctor for carpal tunnel or other hand and wrist issues, schedule an exam at Mid-America Orthopedics by calling (316) 630-9300.