Do You Need Orthopaedic Surgery Near Paramus for Your Wrist Injury?

Most wrist injuries improve with non-operative treatments, such as bracing, ice and heat therapy, and rehabilitation exercises. However, some cases require more intensive care. If you live in the area and have a wrist injury or condition, how do you know when it’s time to get orthopaedic surgery near Paramus?

Only after a thorough examination is conducted will a medical professional know what type of treatment options to recommend. The Hand and Wrist specialists at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute have seen it all! We evaluate each patient’s case individually and determine what course of treatment is appropriate. Learn more about five common wrist injuries and three indicators that you may need a procedure in the future.

Five Common Wrist Injuries

1. Wrist fracture
   A fracture of any kind varies in severity. Some do not cause a shift in bone positions, while others need to be “reduced” back into their proper places. Some breaks are clean, while others cause part of the bone to shatter. For this reason, doctors always obtain the results from imaging tests to understand the condition of the fracture. While any one of the 10 bones in the wrist is capable of breaking, the radius is the most susceptible to a fracture.

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome
   The carpal tunnel is a passageway contained by the carpal wrist bones. The median nerve, one of the main nerves in the hand, passes through the carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median becomes compressed and does not function properly as a result. This causes patients to experience numbness and tingling in the hands and wrist. Mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome usually respond well to some combination of splinting, prescribed medications, and activity modification.

3. Wrist arthritis
   In general, a diagnosis of arthritis is often associated with inflammation, stiffness, and pain. Although there are many forms of arthritis, the three that typically impact the wrist joint are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and posttraumatic arthritis. Because arthritis is a chronic condition, symptoms may be long-term and damaging if not treated properly. Conservative treatment options may include immobilization through bracing, activity modification, and exercises to relieve pain.

4. Ganglion cyst
   A ganglion cyst is a non-cancerous lump found on the back or front of the wrist or the base of a finger. Many cases of ganglion cysts are painless and do not require any kind of treatment. However, if pain is present and the cyst interferes with the wrist’s functions, one of three treatment options will likely be recommended: immobilization, aspiration, or excision.

5. Wrist tendonitis
   Tendonitis in the wrist occur occurs where the tendons cross each other or pass over one of the wrist bones. The most common symptoms of wrist tendonitis are swelling and warmth from the inflamed tendons. While initial treatment options typically ease pain and decrease inflammation, a surgical procedure to release the tightened tendon is sometimes recommended.

Three Signs You May Need Orthopaedic Surgery Near Paramus

If any of the three scenarios below apply to you, then talk to a wrist specialist about the possibility of orthopaedic wrist surgery.

1. Your wrist condition hasn’t improved after implementing conservative treatments. Not everyone responds to prescribed medications, rest, and other methods of care the same way. If you notice your current treatment plan has been failing to make your wrist feel better, discuss this with your doctor or orthopaedic surgeon.

2. You notice your symptoms are worsening. An increase in pain is a clear sign that a patient needs a stronger, more direct method of care.

3. Your injury has been interfering with your daily life. Even if your wrist condition has improved, do you still lack the ability to do certain activities? If so, tell your physician at your next appointment.

At Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, our team of dedicated Hand & Wrist experts is ready to provide you with answers to your questions about wrist surgery. To learn more about orthopaedic surgery near Paramus for wrist injuries, or for more information about our services, please visit us here or contact us at 1-800-321-9999.