Our hands are intricate tools, and we do so much with them. These body parts are essential to everyday life, from gripping to touching, holding to manipulating. Thanks to all they are required to do, hands are also susceptible to various conditions that can cause discomfort and hinder their function. From the well-known carpal tunnel syndrome to the lesser-known De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, here are five common hand and wrist conditions, along with their treatments:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most recognized hand and wrist condition. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed at the wrist. This compression can lead to numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and fingers.
Treatment typically begins with conservative measures such as wearing night splints to keep the wrist in a neutral position. Steroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. However, surgery may be necessary if these methods don’t offer relief. Carpal tunnel release surgery is a relatively minor procedure that involves cutting the ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
- Trigger Finger
Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, causes one or more fingers to lock or catch when bent. This condition occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed or thickened, making it difficult for them to slide through the tendon sheath smoothly.
Treatment options include steroid injections to reduce inflammation and wearing a splint to immobilize the affected finger. In severe cases, surgery may be required to release the constriction in the tendon sheath.
- Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are noncancerous lumps that typically develop on the back or inside of the wrist. These cysts form when the joint capsule or tendon sheath weakens, allowing fluid to accumulate and create a mass.
Treatment for ganglion cysts depends on their size and location. In some cases, fluid may be drained from the cyst. However, surgical excision may be necessary if the cyst is large or causing pain.
- Finger and Thumb Arthritis
Arthritis can affect any joint, including those in the fingers. Finger arthritis often occurs at the last joint of the finger, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. In severe cases, it can lead to deformity and difficulty using the hand.
Treatment usually involves medications such as anti-inflammatories to manage pain and swelling. If conservative measures fail, surgery may be recommended, such as a fusion procedure to alleviate pain and restore function to the affected joint.
Arthritis at the base of the thumb, also known as basal joint arthritis, can cause pain and weakness in the thumb and wrist. This condition is more common in women and often develops because of overuse or previous trauma.
Treatment options include oral or topical anti-inflammatories, steroid injections and, in some cases, joint reconstruction surgery to relieve pain and improve function.
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It is often caused by repetitive movements or overuse of the wrist and thumb, such as lifting a baby or gripping objects.
Splinting and anti-inflammatory medications are typically the first step in treatment. If these more conservative options don’t provide relief, steroid injections may also be used to reduce inflammation. In cases where these treatments fail, surgery may be necessary to release the constriction in the tendon sheath.
Hand and wrist conditions can cause discomfort and limit hand function. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, many individuals can find relief and regain full use of their hands. If you are experiencing symptoms of any of these conditions, it is important to consult with a health care professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
If you or a loved one are experiencing hand or wrist pain, schedule a same- or next-day appointment with one of our specialists at 704-863-HURT (4878) or AtriumHealth.org/HURT
