Aging Well
A wide range of hand-related issues can be treated by orthopedic specialists.
Understanding Hand Health
Hand problems – from traumatic injuries to chronic conditions – can make even the simplest daily tasks difficult. Signs of pinched nerves, strained tendons, or swelling in the hands can include:
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hand or thumb
- Lack of movement in the hand, wrist, or fingers
- Increased hand, finger, or wrist pain
- Difficulty grasping objects or opening bottles and jars
Common Conditions
Carpal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel at the level of the wrist, which may result in pain, numbness, tingling, or even weakness in the hand.
Trigger finger is an inflammatory condition resulting in the flexor tendon of a finger or thumb becoming stuck under a tight pulley, which results in catching, popping, or locking when attempting to bend or straighten the finger.
Thumb arthritis is caused by the deterioration of the cartilage at the base of the thumb, causing pain, decreased grip strength, difficulty opening jars or bottles, and reduced range of motion.
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition where one or more fingers bend toward the palm of a person’s hand and cannot straighten completely.
Treatment and Outlook
Thankfully, these conditions can be treated effectively by orthopedic hand specialists, with many treatment options available to relieve pain and restore movement. Nonsurgical options include anti-inflammatory medications, hand therapy, steroid injections, and the use of a brace or splint. Should nonsurgical treatment prove ineffective, surgery may be recommended. With a personalized treatment plan, patients can enjoy restored, pain-free hand function and resume daily activities with ease.
An Expert Weighs In
Meet the Author
Rachel Studebaker, BA, English, Summa Cum Laude
Rachel Studebaker is a graduate of Lee University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in advertising with the distinction of summa cum laude and served as editor-in-chief of the university’s biannual magazine, The Vindagua. After graduation, Rachel joined CMC Media & Marketing Group as an editor. Today, she serves as managing editor and is responsible for leading the editorial team in the development and completion of content for 17 publications involving health & wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. In addition to writing, editing, and coordinating copy, Rachel oversees networking and reputation management for the company’s publications. In her free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, attending concerts, trying new restaurants, and traveling with her husband.
