Category: Common Issues

Thumb sprains are injuries to a ligament, a soft tissue that connects bones at the joints. Thumb fractures, on the other hand, are bone breaks, and different injuries altogether. The most injured ligament is the ulnar collateral, which connects the thumb to the hand on the side closest to the index finger.

These injuries are commonly stemmed from falls or sports injuries. Skiing, basketball, and other contact sports result in many thumb injuries. People generally try to catch themselves while falling, resulting in bent thumbs in awkward positions.

Signs of a thumb sprain

1. Swelling
2. Pain
3. Bruising
4. Weakness
5. Inability to hold a glass or write

Jammed fingers are another common issue and can result in similar symptoms. However, jammed fingers can still be used and moved, whereas sprains cannot.

Treatments for thumb sprains

Until you can get into a doctors’ office, elevate and ice the injured hand. Apply bandages, so the thumb is immobilized until a doctor examines the injury.

To determine the severity of your injury, visit a hand surgeon as soon as possible. X-rays might be taken to see whether ligaments are torn or bones are broken. Casts or splints might be prescribed for torn ligaments. If treatment is delayed, damage to the thumb could be permanent. Don’t delay in visiting a medical professional.

Sprained thumbs can be treated with a brace or cast. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary; otherwise, recovery takes roughly three- to six weeks to fully heal.

Patient treatments vary, so ensure you receive the best treatment possible by visiting the experts at Michigan Hand & Wrist today.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Tumors within the hand can be many different shapes and sizes. Technically, tumors can be cancerous, but most are benign. Common hand and wrist tumors are both above and below the skin.

Warts
These extremely common bumps are non-cancerous and spread due to the human papillomavirus (HPV) easily. Warts are mostly harmless but can be embarrassing, rough or dry, and itchy. Many wart-removal procedures exist, and it is possible to remove them at home effectively. Pumice stones, over-the-counter freezing kits, or certain chemicals are all viable options.

Ganglion Cysts
Some of the most common tumors in the hand, ganglion cysts, can fluctuate in size and appearance. They might be soft or firm, appearing on the wrist or base of a finger. Sometimes these cysts can appear to be smaller than a pea. The cause of these tumors is unknown, and they might be painful. Treatment options include aspiration or surgical removal.

Giant Cell Tumors
The second most common tumors are usually solid and not filled with liquid. Over time, they may slowly grow larger. These tumors are not cancerous.

Epidermal Inclusion
Also benign, these tumors can form where a cut or puncture previously occurred. A soft, waxy material called keratin is what makes up most of the tumor.

One condition that is commonly mistaken for a tumor is Dupuytren’s contracture. This condition causes firm pits, bumps, and cords in the palm, making it difficult to flatten completely. However, it is not technically a tumor.

A specialist should examine hand or wrist tumors to ensure they are benign. Hand surgeons can help devise treatment options through x-rays or bone scans. While sometimes the best option is to leave it alone, other times surgery might be required. There are also many non-surgical options.  

To make an appointment with a hand and wrist specialist to examine a tumor or growth, contact the Michigan Hand & Wrist experts today.

Michigan Hand & Wrist was founded in 2001 with the mission to provide the highest-quality care for patients seeking surgical or non-surgical hand or upper extremity relief. Our goal is to exhaust all non-operative measures before discussing or moving on to surgical interventions. We offer on-site physical therapy from therapists committed to improving your quality of life. Our individualized treatments are modern, progressive, and exceptional. Contact us today at www.michiganhandandwrist.com or call 248-596-0412.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.