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The hand is one the most complex areas of the body. The hand and wrist are made up of bones, joints, and “soft tissues” such as muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. There are many injuries that can occur to the hand and wrist.
Due to the complex structure of the hand and wrist, Joint Effort has gone to great lengths to ensure our therapy program provides the most effective treatment possible. Custom splinting is available when necessary, as well as programs designed to increase range of motion and strength. We also provide education on properly performed tasks that do not provoke irritation and pain.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This is caused by too much pressure on a nerve in the wrist. Carpal Tunnel causes numbness or pain in the thumb, index and middle fingers, and part of the ring finger. It's a common condition in people who have to use their hands for long periods of time, like computer workers. Repeated movement and overuse can cause tendons and sheaths to swell. These then press on the nerve, causing numbness.
DeQuervain's
DeQuervain's is a condition that affects the thumb and the wrist. Tightness and inflammation of the tendon prevent normal movement. Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist is prevalent. You may also feel a small knot or pain when you turn your wrist, make a fist or grasp something.
Fractures
The hand has 27 bones. Falling on your hand, jamming or twisting fingers and direct blows are the most common causes of a fracture. Since there are so many bones in the hand, each type of fracture is handled per its severity. Pain, swelling and loss of motion are to be expected with fractures.
Tendon / Ligament Strains and Tears
Torn ligaments and surrounding tissue can cause severe pain and swelling. A partially torn ligament can repair itself, with the assistance of a cast or splint. Surgery may be needed to repair severely torn ligaments. Therapy is important for each of these conditions to keep the hand functioning appropriately to avoid disability.
Tendon Cuts (lacerations)
If a tendon in the hand is partially or completely cut, it is highly important for the tendon to heal properly. Improper healing of the tendon can cause scar tissue to form. Surgery may be needed for complete tendon cuts.
Tendonitis
This is common when the tendon becomes inflamed and overused. Tenderness and pain accompany tendonitis.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger is a clicking or locking of a finger. It can be painless or cause pain. Untreated, the finger can get unexpectedly locked in the bent position and cannot be unlocked or straightened anymore. This may occur in one or more fingers at the same time.
