Hand surgery can treat various conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and fractures. However, it’s not usually the first course of action. Many physicians and patients prefer using alternative treatments before opting for surgery.
If any of the following situations occur, you should consult a hand surgeon ASAP.
Conditions such as tendon injuries, sprains, and arthritis can worsen over time, heightening the severity of the symptoms. These may interfere with your daily activities and make it difficult for you to perform various tasks.
For instance, you may have trouble gripping or carrying objects, e.g., you can’t open jar lids or squeeze bottles. You may also be unable to write, drive, or perform several other daily activities.
If this happens, you may need hand surgery. Monitor your symptoms for a while and speak to an orthopedic specialist if they linger beyond a couple of days to get insight into how severe the condition really is.
Are you having trouble stretching your fingers or wiggling your thumbs? Does moving your hand or wrist cause you any pain or discomfort? If you’ve answered “yes” to either of these questions, hand surgery may be in order.
Hand swelling or inflammation can reduce your range of motion (ROM), impacting mobility and flexibility. One useful way of determining whether you’re experiencing reduced ROM is by making an “OK” sign with your hand. Use your thumb and index finger to make the “O.” If the “O” is round, you’re good to go. If the shape seems flat or you have trouble maintaining it, you might have a problem. Alternately, you can try making a fist to determine the ROM of your fingers.
Nonsurgical Treatments Have Been UnsuccessfulFinally, you may need hand surgery if other treatments have been unsuccessful. While pain medication, stretching exercises, and home remedies can help alleviate mild to moderate symptoms, they’re hardly effective as long-term treatments. Instead of prolonging their usage to avoid surgery, it’s better to consult an orthopedic surgeon and discuss surgical treatments.
Many people dread surgery. However, if nonsurgical methods have been ineffective, you should opt for surgical intervention for effective and long-lasting results.
TOPS Surgical Specialty Hospital is one of the leading orthopedic hospitals in Houston. Our orthopedic hand surgeons use surgical and minimally invasive procedures to treat various hand, wrist, and elbow issues.
Our orthopedic surgeons in Houston are available to discuss hand surgery as well as other options. You may also visit our website to find the right orthopedic hand specialist for you.
Phone: (281) 539-2900
Fax: (281) 715-4525
7 Day a Week 24 Hours a Day
Driving Directions
