Common Hand and Wrist Conditions: Diagnosis and Treatment at Space Coast Orthopedic

The hands and wrists play a vital role in our everyday activities, from typing and writing to cooking and exercising. However, because of their constant use, they are susceptible to injury and a variety of conditions that can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced function. At Space Coast Orthopedic in Merritt Island, FL, Dr. Luc Teurlings specializes in diagnosing and treating hand and wrist conditions, providing patients with the care they need to restore function and improve quality of life.

Common Hand and Wrist Conditions

Hand and wrist issues can range from mild discomfort to debilitating conditions that interfere with daily tasks. Below are some of the most common hand and wrist conditions seen by orthopedic specialists like Dr. Teurlings.

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most prevalent hand conditions, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression leads to pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Individuals who perform repetitive motions, such as typing or assembly line work, are particularly prone to developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
• Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects
• Pain that worsens at night or with repetitive activities

2. Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition in which one of your fingers gets stuck in a bent position. This occurs when the tendon that controls the finger’s movement becomes inflamed or irritated, causing it to catch or lock when you try to straighten your finger. The condition is more common in individuals who engage in repetitive gripping or grasping activities, such as manual labor or playing musical instruments.

Signs of trigger finger include:

• A popping or clicking sensation when moving the finger
• Stiffness in the finger, especially in the morning
• Pain and tenderness at the base of the affected finger

3. De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of your wrist. These tendons become inflamed and irritated, causing pain when you try to grip or twist objects. This condition is often associated with overuse of the wrist and thumb, making it common among new mothers, athletes, and individuals with jobs requiring repetitive hand and wrist motions.

Common symptoms of De Quervain’s tenosynovitis include:

• Pain and swelling near the base of the thumb
• Difficulty gripping or holding objects
• Pain that worsens with wrist movement, such as turning a doorknob or lifting

4. Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist

Arthritis is a common condition that affects joints throughout the body, including the hands and wrists. There are two main types of arthritis that affect the hand: osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the joints wears down over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joint lining.

Symptoms of arthritis in the hand and wrist include:

• Pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints
• A reduced range of motion in the fingers or wrist
• Joint deformities in severe cases

5. Fractures and Sprains

Hand and wrist fractures and sprains are common injuries, often caused by falls, accidents, or sports-related trauma. A fracture occurs when a bone in the hand or wrist breaks, while a sprain involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments. Both conditions can cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty using the hand or wrist.

Signs of a fracture or sprain include:

• Immediate pain and swelling
• Bruising or discoloration around the injury
• Difficulty moving the affected area or bearing weight

Diagnosing Hand and Wrist Conditions

Proper diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment for hand and wrist conditions. At Space Coast Orthopedic, Dr. Luc Teurlings uses a combination of medical history, physical examinations, and advanced imaging techniques, such as X-rays and MRIs, to accurately diagnose the underlying issue. With a precise diagnosis, Dr. Teurlings can create a customized treatment plan designed to address the patient’s specific needs.

Treatment Options for Hand and Wrist Conditions

Treatment for hand and wrist conditions can vary widely depending on the severity and cause of the problem. Dr. Luc Teurlings offers both conservative and surgical treatments to help patients find relief and regain functionality.

1. Physical Therapy

For many hand and wrist conditions, physical therapy is an essential part of the treatment plan. Physical therapy helps improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area, allowing patients to recover more quickly and prevent future injuries. A customized physical therapy program may include:

• Stretching exercises to increase flexibility
• Strengthening exercises for hand and wrist muscles
• Range of motion exercises to improve mobility

Physical therapy is especially effective for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and trigger finger.

2. Splinting and Bracing

In some cases, wearing a splint or brace can help relieve pain and allow the affected area to heal. Splints and braces provide support to the hand and wrist, reducing movement and preventing further irritation. This is a common treatment for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and De Quervain’s tenosynovitis.

3. Medications and Injections

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to reduce pain and inflammation in patients with hand and wrist conditions. For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be administered directly into the affected area to provide long-lasting relief from pain and swelling. These injections are commonly used for arthritis and trigger finger.

4. Minimally Invasive Surgery

When conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Luc Teurlings specializes in minimally invasive procedures that reduce recovery time and minimize scarring. Common surgeries include:

• Carpal Tunnel Release: This procedure involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve to relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Trigger Finger Release: Surgery for trigger finger involves making a small incision to release the tight tendon sheath, allowing the finger to move more freely.
• Fracture Repair: In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be required to realign the bones and stabilize the hand or wrist using pins, screws, or plates.

Protecting Your Hands and Wrists

Prevention is key to avoiding many hand and wrist conditions. Here are some steps you can take to protect your hands and wrists from injury:

• Take breaks: If you perform repetitive tasks, such as typing or using tools, take regular breaks to rest your hands and wrists.
• Practice proper ergonomics: Use ergonomic equipment and maintain good posture when working at a desk to reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
• Strengthen your hands and wrists: Perform exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your hands and wrists, which can help prevent injury.

Moving Toward Healthier Hands and Wrists

Hand and wrist conditions can interfere with your ability to work, play, and enjoy daily activities. However, with the right diagnosis and treatment, many of these conditions can be effectively managed or resolved. At Space Coast Orthopedic in Merritt Island, FL, Dr. Luc Teurlings is committed to helping patients find relief from hand and wrist pain and regain full functionality.

If you’re experiencing hand or wrist pain, don’t wait—schedule a consultation with Dr. Teurlings today and start your journey toward better hand and wrist health.

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Sources

• Szabo, R. M., & Madison, M. (1993). Carpal tunnel syndrome. Orthopedic Clinics of North America.
• Rayan, G. M. (1996). Trigger finger: Diagnosis and treatment. The Journal of Hand Surgery.
• Wolfe, S. W., & Hotchkiss, R. N. (1998). Fractures of the hand and wrist. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery.