Article Featured on Bidneeham.org

While hand and wrist injuries are very common, some athletes never seek treatment. Unfortunately, delaying the diagnosis and treatment may result in long-term problems or even a permanent disability. Here is a list of some of the most common injuries athletes experience.

Sprains

Sprains are damage to ligaments. A ligament is a type of tissue that connects bone to bone. There are different grades of sprain from a minor tear to complete rupture. Treatment and recovery time will depend on grade of sprain.

Thumb Sprains

Breaking a fall with the palm of your hand or taking a spill on the slopes with your hand strapped to a ski pole could leave you with a painful thumb injury. The ulnar collateral ligament may be sprained. This ligament acts like a hinge and helps your thumb to function properly. If you sprain your thumb, you could lose some or all of your ability to grasp items between your thumb and index finger or to grasp well with the entire hand.

Wrist Sprains

When you fall forward, as when you trip running or rollerblading, your natural response is to put your hands out in front of you to catch yourself. Unfortunately, this natural response causes you to land on your palm, bending your wrist backwards, and possibly stretching or tearing the ligaments connecting the bones in your wrist. The resulting injury is a wrist sprain.

Injuries to the Bone

Bones can be fractured and dislocated. A fracture is a crack or break in a bone. It is commonly referred to as broken bone. A dislocation is when a bone is pushed out of place so that they no longer line up correctly at the joint. This can decrease the ability to move and cause pain.

Hand Fractures

Fractures of the metacarpals (the bones in your hand just before your knuckles) and your phalanges (the bones between the joints of your fingers) are also common sports injuries.

Finger Fractures

The most common fracture of the metacarpals is a boxer’s fracture. A boxer’s fracture usually occurs when you strike an object with your closed fist. With a boxer’s fracture, the fifth metacarpal joint (the one at the base of your littlest finger) is depressed and the surrounding tissue is tender and swollen.

Wrist Fractures

Scaphoid fractures account for many wrist fractures. The scaphoid bone is one of eight small bones that make up the wrist. Wrist fractures are common both in sports and motor vehicle accidents. The break usually occurs during a fall on the outstretched wrist. The angle at which the wrist hits the ground may determine the type of injury. The more the wrist is bent back (extension), the more likely the scaphoid bone will break. With less wrist extension it is more likely the lower arm bone (radius) will break.

Scaphoid fractures are not always immediately obvious. Many people with a fractured scaphoid think they have a sprained wrist instead of a broken bone because there is no obvious deformity and very little swelling.

Dislocations of the PIP Joint

One of the most common injuries to an athlete’s hand is an injury to the joint above the knuckle, the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint. Injuries to the PIP joint occur when the finger is either hyperextended (forced backwards) or forced into flexion (downward into a bent position). Injuries to the PIP joint may include fractures, dislocations, and fracture dislocations.

Soft Tissue and Closed Tendon Injuries

Tendons are a type of connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone. A common injury of the tendon is called tendonitis, an irritation of the tissue.

DeQuervain’s Syndrome

DeQuervain’s syndrome is a common injury in racquet sports and in athletes who use a lot of wrist motion, especially repetitive rotating and gripping.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

The overuse of the hand may eventually cause irritation of the tendons found along the thumb side of the wrist. This irritation causes the lining around the tendon to swell, making it difficult for the tendons to move properly.

ECU Tendonitis

Extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendonitis is another common sports-related closed tendon injury. ECU tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon that runs along the back of the wrist and is caused by repetitive twisting and backward flexion of the wrist. It is most commonly seen in basketball players and those playing racquet sports.

Baseball Finger

Baseball finger (or mallet finger) is an injury that commonly occurs at the beginning of the baseball season. It occurs when a ball hits the tip of your finger, bending it down. Normally, the tip of your finger can bend toward the palm of your hand about 60-70 degrees. However, add the force of a ball that has been batted through the air, and it can push your finger beyond that limit, tearing the extensor tendon that controls muscle movement in the affected finger. If the force is great enough, it may even pull tiny pieces of bone away, as well.

Jersey Finger

Jersey finger is the opposite of mallet finger and occurs when the fingertip, usually the ring finger, is forcibly extended, such as if your finger gets caught in an opponent’s jersey. This causes the flexor tendon, which bends the fingertip, to be pulled away from the bone and will leave you unable to bend your finger without assistance.

Boutonnière Deformity

Boutonnière deformity is an injury to the tendons that straighten your fingers. It occurs when your finger receives a forceful blow when it is bent. Several tendons, running along the side and top of your finger, work together to straighten the finger. If the tendon on the top that attaches to the middle bone of the finger (the central slip of tendon) is injured by a forceful blow, it can sever the central slip from its attachment to the bone, in some cases, even popping the bone through the opening. The tear looks like a buttonhole (“boutonnière” in French). If you have a boutonnière deformity, the middle joint of your finger will bend downward and the fingertip end joint bends back. People with a boutonnière deformity cannot fully straighten their finger.

Preventing Sports-Related Hand and Wrist Injuries

The best ways to prevent sports-related hand, wrist, and upper extremity injuries include

• Wrist guards
  If your sport is rollerblading, street hockey, or skateboarding, wrist guards may help protect you from bone fractures and hand scrapes if you fall or slide.
• Gloves
  Use gloves to protect your hands, particularly if you are a bicyclist or skateboarder. The gloves will help protect your hands if the palm suffers a direct blow. In addition to protecting your nerves, gloves can protect your skin from direct wounds and cuts.
• Warm up
  Before playing sports, include a warm-up routine where you focus on stretching and improving your flexibility.

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Article Featured on Michigan Hand & Wrist

Repetitive motions and everyday activities can easily lead to injuries of the wrist. It is important to understand the most common of these injuries so you know when it’s time to consult a doctor.

Sprains and Strains

If you experience pain, bruising and the inability to move your wrist, you may have a stretched or torn ligament. This is called a sprain, and it is caused by things such as falling or getting hit. A stretched or torn tendon or muscle in your wrist is a strain, which might happen over the course of time or develop suddenly. Many wrist strains and sprains can be treated at home with ice, rest and compression bands. More serious cases may require physical therapy.

Broken Bones

Broken wrists account for 10 percent of broken bones in the United States. The term “broken wrist” usually applies to a fracture of the radius in the forearm that occurs at the lower, or distal, end near where it connect to the hand bones on the thumb side. Broken wrists are usually caused by falling with outstretched arms or getting hit very hard. Symptoms of a broken wrist include severe pain, swelling, tenderness, and a deformity that makes it appear bent. People who suspect they have a broken wrist should consult a doctor immediately so treatment can begin.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The eight bones of the wrist are called carpals, and the tube that runs through them is called the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel contains nerves and tendons, and when those tendons swell or become irritated it narrows the canal and puts pressure on the nerves that causes them to compress. This causes numbness, and as it worsens people may have trouble grasping things. Treatments include rest, splints and medications for pain and to reduce inflammation. Severe cases require surgery in order for people to regain normal wrist movement.

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

By Zawn Villines | Article Featured on Medical News Today

Hand pain is often the result of a recent injury or from overusing the hand or wrist. However, persistent or reoccurring pain in the hand may be the sign of an underlying condition. In this article, we describe the possible causes of pain in the hand and when to see a doctor.

We also cover some home remedies for hand pain.

Hand injuries

The hands and wrists contain many different bones, joints, and connective tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Injuries to the hand can damage these structures and lead to pain, swelling, bruising, and other symptoms.

Common causes of hand injuries can include:

• knocks and blows
• landing on the hands during a fall
• jamming a finger
• bending the fingers or wrist too far backward
• repetitive strain, such as from long periods of typing, heavy lifting, or playing sports

Finger fractures and dislocations are common types of hand injury. The pain usually feels sudden and intense, and it may develop into throbbing or soreness over the course of several days.

Falls and severe blows can also fracture the wrist, causing sharp pain and swelling. People with fractures may require a cast. Less frequently, a doctor may need to set the bones back into place. Injuries to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons are called soft tissue injuries. People with soft tissue injuries do not usually require medical treatment, but ice and elevation can help relieve pain and swelling.

It is also important to rest or immobilize the hand while it recovers. Mallet finger, or baseball finger, is another common hand injury. This injury occurs when a sudden blow, such as from a ball, tears or stretches the extensor tendon in the finger. It can also happen if a person jams or cuts their finger.

A typical sign of mallet finger is a drooping fingertip that will not straighten without help. The finger may also be bruised, swollen, and painful. Splinting the injured finger can help with healing. In some cases, a person may need surgery or physical therapy.

Overuse

Repetitive movements or overuse of the hands and wrists can cause the muscles, tendons, and nerves to become painful, sore, or tense. Pain and tension from muscles in the arms and shoulders can also radiate down to the hands.

This type of pain typically results from carrying out very repetitive or high-intensity activities for long periods of time. Holding the hands in awkward positions for too long can also lead to overuse injuries.

Common causes include:

• typing or using a computer mouse
• using tools
• lifting heavy items
• playing, or training for, sports

Overuse injuries usually respond well to rest, hot or cold packs, and gentle stretching. Taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen may also help reduce pain and swelling.

A doctor may also recommend physical therapy or making adjustments to a person’s working and training habits to help prevent reinjury.

Ganglion cyst

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that can develop near joints and tendons in the hand and wrist. These cysts can vary size, but they are often harmless and disappear without treatment.

However, they can sometimes be painful and may affect a person’s ability to use their hand or wrist. Researchers do not yet understand what causes ganglion cysts, but they tend to be more common in younger people and females.

Ganglion cysts do not usually require treatment. If a person has pain or difficulties moving a joint, a doctor may recommend draining the cyst or removing it surgically.

Trigger finger

Stenosing tenosynovitis, or “trigger finger,” occurs when the ring of connective tissue called the tendon sheath at the base of a thumb or finger becomes swollen. This swelling can affect the movement of the tendon, making it difficult or painful to move the affected finger or thumb.

A person may also notice a popping sensation when trying to move the finger, or a feeling that the finger is catching on something.

Treatment options for trigger finger may include:

• resting the finger
• immobilizing it with a splint
• taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen
• having steroid injections
• seeking release of the tendon sheath when the above treatments fail

A doctor may also recommend surgery if other treatments are unsuccessful.

Scleroderma

Scleroderma is a group of conditions that result in unusual growth of connective tissue under the skin or around internal organs. All types of scleroderma can cause the skin of the fingers to thicken and tighten, which can make them difficult to move. Systemic scleroderma can also narrow the blood vessels of the hand, which can lead to pain and tingling.

Scleroderma is a chronic condition with no cure. However, steroids, blood pressure medications, and immunosuppressants can help relieve symptoms and prevent the condition from progressing.

Raynaud’s phenomenon

Raynaud’s phenomenon is a condition in which the blood vessels in the fingers or toes temporarily narrow. It often occurs in response to cold temperatures or stress. During a flare-up, blood flow to hands becomes severely reduced. This may cause the fingers to lighten or become blue, and they may feel numb or painful.

When the blood flow begins to return, the hands may appear red or purple. The length of these attacks can vary from less than 1 minute to several hours. Other conditions, such as scleroderma, can cause Raynaud’s phenomenon. However, for most people with Raynaud’s, the cause is unknown.

There is no cure for Raynaud’s. However, making lifestyle changes and taking medications can help prevent flare-ups and reduce their severity. Treating any underlying conditions can also help.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a general term for more than 100 different disorders that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in joints.

The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which occurs when the cartilage that protects a joint wears away over time. This wear and tear allows the bones in the joint to rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness.

Another common type of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which occurs when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues in the joints, which can cause inflammation and pain. Over time, this inflammation can lead to permanent joint damage.

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including in the hands and wrists. Treatment depends on the type of arthritis, but it can include making lifestyle changes, taking medications, exercising, and seeking physical therapy or occupational therapy.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, becomes compressed or squeezed. Symptoms can start gradually and are often worse at night. They typically include pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause weakness in the affected hand. Some people may experience a loss of proprioception, which is a sense of where the hand is in space.

This condition can get worse with time, so early diagnosis and treatment is important. Treatment options include:

• making lifestyle changes
• wearing a splint
• taking medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections
• seeking physical therapy
• having surgery

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is the gradual loss of bone mass, which causes the bones to become weak and brittle. This weakness increases a person’s risk of fracturing or breaking bones, particularly in the wrists and hips. Osteoporosis tends to develop slowly and is more common in females and older people.

Treatment for osteoporosis typically involves:

• exercising to improve bone health, muscle strength, and mobility
• taking medications to increase bone strength
• making lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of falls and fractures
• making dietary changes, such as taking calcium or vitamin D supplements to improve bone health

When to see a doctor

A person should see a doctor for severe, persistent, or reoccurring pain in the hands or wrists.

See a doctor for hand pain that:

• does not get better with home treatment
• gets steadily worse
• does not respond to treatment that a doctor recommends
• may be due to a fall or other injury
• occurs along with other symptoms, such as arm pain, a fever, or exhaustion

Go to the emergency room for:

• intense, sudden, unbearable hand pain
• a suspected broken wrist or arm
• a visible injury to the hand that causes very intense pain

Home remedies

Hand pain sometimes gets better with gentle stretching exercises.

To ease pain in the hands or wrists, a person can:

• Rotate the wrists counter-clockwise and then clockwise. Repeat each movement 10 times.
• Open the hands as widely as possible, spread the fingers apart, then close the hands into a tight fist. Repeat 10 times.
• Use one hand to gently extend the fingers of the other hand back toward the chest for a gentle wrist stretch. Repeat five to 10 times.

A doctor or physical therapist may be able to recommend additional hand and wrist stretches.

RICE therapy can help with a range of minor injuries, including hand and wrist pain. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation:

• Rest. Avoid using the affected hand as much as possible.
• Ice. Apply an ice or cold pack to the injured hand for 20 minutes several times per day.
• Compression. Wrap the affected area in a soft bandage, splint, or cast.
• Elevation. Keep the affected hand raised, such as by using a sling, above heart level.

Other home remedies for hand and wrist pain include:

• Massage. Try massaging the painful area and surrounding muscles. Sometimes, massaging the arms or shoulders can help with hand pain.
• Heat. Some pain responds well to heat. Consider alternating between heat and cold packs, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off for each.
• OTC medications. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can help with pain and inflammation from a wide variety of conditions.

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopaedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopaedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopaedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.