Our hands are integral to nearly all daily life activities. An injury to the hand, wrist or fingers can greatly impact the ability to function normally at home, at work or playing sports. Some of the most common hand and wrist problems are described here.
Ganglion cysts are a non-cancerous mass or lump the usually occur in the back of the hand. ..read more
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve at the base of the palm, where it passes near the wrist joint. This nerve provides sensation to the thumb and most parts of the fingers. ..read more
The hand and wrist are comprised of multiple small joints that work together to produce many intricate motions, from threading a needle to turning a key in a door. When joints become affected with arthritis, the activities of daily living can be very difficult. When a joint becomes arthritic, the cartilage has worn away and the joint can no longer function smoothly with the bones gliding easily over each other. ..read more
DeQuervain's tendonitis is characterized by pain and swelling of the thumb-side of the wrist. Recurrent irritation of the tendon and its sheath make it difficult and painful for the tendons to function normally. ..read more
Dupuytren's contracture is a condition that causes a thickening of the tissue that is just below the skin of the palm. This condition produces small and elongated lumps and cords that may eventually cause the fingers to be drawn into the palm. ..read more
The tendon that bends the finger passes through a tube-like tendon sheath. If the tendon and sheath become irritated and enlarged from repetitive gripping action, inflammation may occur making it difficult for the tendon to pass through the sheath. The condition is called trigger finger because the tendon catches and then suddenly releases, as if clicking a "trigger." ..read more
Injuries to the hand are common in athletes because the hands frequently absorb impact during sports activity. Sports-related injuries may involve the supporting ligaments, tendons or bones. ..read more
The most common fracture to the wrist occurs to the distal radius, the end of the larger of the two arm bones at the thumb-side of the wrist. Distal radius fractures usually happen about one inch from the end of the radius and most often occur in people over 60. The injury causes pain, swelling, bruising and can create a deformed appearance to the wrist. ..read more
For more information on hand and wrist injuries, visit the American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons website at http://orthoinfo.aaos.org.
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