Hand Problems

What are hand problems?

Hand problems are issues originating in or affecting your palms, fingers, or wrists. Often, these problems are at the joints like your knuckles or wrist. The typical symptoms of hand problems, which might drive you to book an appointment at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center if you can’t find relief, include:

• Pain
• Burning
• Tingling
• Stiffness
• Warmth
• Coldness
• Swelling
• Color changes
• Lumps and bumps

Hand problems are particularly inconvenient because you use your hands a lot for almost everything you do. That is a major reason why many hand problems come from overuse or repetitive motions you make using your hands. You’re especially prone to hand problems if you work in certain occupations involving typing, writing, or using other fine hand movements. 

What causes hand problems?

Conditions and injuries causing hand problems are diverse and range from mild to severe. Some are even severe enough to require surgical repair. 

The team at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center makes a comprehensive evaluation of the hand experiencing symptoms. After asking about your medical history, examining the hand, and possibly using imaging tests, they determine if your hand problems are the result of:

Overuse injuries

Overuse injuries commonly cause hand and wrist problems. Carpal tunnel syndrome, for instance, comes from putting repeated pressure on one of the nerves of your wrist, which travels into your hand and fingers. Tendon injuries or irritation are other common overuse issues that can affect the hand, including De Quervain’s tendinosis.

Acute injuries

Acute injuries like a broken finger or fractured hand are typically easy to identify right away. 

Degenerative or long-term medical conditions 

In some cases, long-term or degenerative medical conditions are the source of your hand pain or numbness. You can experience hand problems from arthritis, diabetes, gout, or lupus, among other conditions. 

How are hand problems treated?

Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center treats your hand problems using a personalized touch. After the initial in-depth evaluation of your hand, the team builds an individualized treatment plan to address the underlying cause and ease inflammation, which may be making symptoms like pain and numbness worse. 

While non-surgical treatment is a priority, the team at Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center can include surgery in your treatment plan if they find it necessary. Your plan may involve:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Injections
• Ice and heat
• Activity modification or rest
• Immobilization with a splint or cast
• Hand surgery (e.g., carpal tunnel release)

No matter which treatments you get, the goal is to restore dexterity and relieve any pain or numbness you’re experiencing. 

Hand problems can pose a major inconvenience in your day-to-day life. To find out why you have hand problems and what you can do to fix them, call Los Angeles Orthopaedic Center, or request an appointment online today.