If you’ve ever faced discomfort or pain in your hand, wrist or fingers, you know how important these areas are to your daily life. Whether it’s typing, gripping, writing or even carrying groceries, your hands play a crucial role in everything you do. But when something goes wrong, it’s not always clear who to turn to for help.
This blog will serve as your guide to understanding who specializes in treating hand-related issues, what conditions they manage, and how they can help you regain mobility and comfort. Keep reading to find out how these specialists can improve your quality of life and how Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Orthopedic Services is here to help.
What is a hand doctor?
A hand doctor, officially known as a hand surgeon or orthopedic hand specialist, is a medical professional trained to diagnose, treat and manage problems related to the hand, wrist and forearm. These specialists are often orthopedic surgeons but may also be plastic surgeons with a subspecialty in hand and wrist conditions.
The term “hand surgeon” can be misleading because not all visits to a hand doctor result in surgery. Many hand doctors also specialize in non-surgical treatments for conditions such as arthritis, tendonitis or repetitive strain injuries. These providers are critical in delivering effective hand pain treatment that helps patients return to daily life.
The role of a hand specialist
Hand and wrist specialists are experts in the anatomy of your hand, wrist and forearm. Their main goal is to restore function, reduce pain and help you get back to your daily activities.
Some of their responsibilities include:
- Diagnosing injuries or conditions
- Recommending physical therapy or medication
- Performing minimally invasive procedures
- Conducting surgeries when necessary
Common conditions treated by hand doctors
You might wonder whether your specific issue warrants a trip to a hand doctor. Here’s a look at some of the most common conditions they treat:
1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This condition is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the wrist. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling or weakness in the hand. Hand specialists offer options like wrist braces, physical therapy or surgery in some cases.
2. Arthritis
Arthritis in the hand or wrist can lead to joint pain, stiffness and swelling. A hand specialist can suggest treatments like anti-inflammatory medication, injections, or in some cases, joint replacement surgery.
3. Tendonitis
Repetitive movements like typing, writing or playing sports can lead to inflammation of the tendons. Treatments often include rest, splinting or physical therapy.
4. Fractures and Dislocations
A broken wrist or fingers may require an orthopedic hand specialist for proper alignment and healing. Severe fractures sometimes need pins, plates, or surgery to ensure full recovery.
5. Trigger Finger
Trigger finger occurs when the tendons in the fingers become inflamed, making it difficult to straighten them. Hand doctors might recommend steroid injections or a minor procedure to release the tendon.
6. Sports or Work-Related Injuries
From sprains to crush injuries, hand surgeons handle a variety of acute conditions caused by accidents or repetitive strain.
7. Nerve Damage
Conditions like nerve compression or severe cuts can result in impaired sensation or movement. Hand specialists are skilled at repairing nerve injuries through advanced surgical techniques.
When should you see a hand doctor?
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, limited mobility, or numbness in your hand or wrist, it’s time to seek help. While some minor hand or wrist issues can improve with rest, home remedies,or under the care of your primary care provider, others may require specialized care. Here are some signs that you should consider seeing a hand doctor:
- Hand pain that doesn’t improve after rest or over-the-counter medications
- Swelling or stiffness that limits your movement
- Tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand
- Difficulty performing everyday activities, like gripping or typing
- Visible deformity in your hand, wrist, or fingers
Early intervention can often prevent more serious complications, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if you’re unsure.
How a hand doctor can help
A hand doctor provides comprehensive care tailored to your specific needs. This might include:
- Diagnosis through imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs
- Treatment planning with non-invasive options like splints or therapy
- Minimally invasive procedures to reduce pain and improve mobility
- Advanced surgeries for complex conditions or injuries
Whether your case calls for advanced surgery or a more conservative, non-surgical approach for hand pain treatment, their ultimate goal is to help you regain function and live pain-free.
Taking the first step towards pain-free hands
Your hands are essential to everything you do, and you shouldn’t have to live with pain or discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, arthritis, or an unexplained hand condition, our expert team at NGMC Orthopedic Services is here to help.
Schedule your appointment today and discover how our hand specialists can make a difference.