Tendons and nerves play crucial roles in the movement and sensation of the hand. Tendons are strong, fibrous tissues that connect muscles to bones. They allow for movement and dexterity, so when a tendon is injured, the ability to bend, extend, or grip objects may be compromised. Nerves transmit signals between the brain and the hand, enabling both movement and sensation. Nerve injuries can cause pain, weakness, numbness, or even paralysis in the affected area. Tendon and nerve injuries can occur due to lacerations, blunt trauma, strain, and more, but regardless of the cause, timely diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing further complications. At OrthoGeorgia, our team of hand specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for all manner of hand and upper extremity conditions and injuries, including issues with the tendons and nerves. Using the latest diagnostic tools and treatment techniques, we work to restore function, alleviate pain, and help patients get back to living and moving more comfortably.
What are the Symptoms and Types of Tendon and Nerve Injury in the Hand?
Tendon and nerve injuries in the hand can significantly impact daily activities, from simple tasks like buttoning a shirt to more complex functions such as typing or cooking. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the issue, but common signs include:
Pain: Sharp, aching, or burning pain, which may worsen with movement.
Swelling and Inflammation: The injured area may appear swollen, tender, or warm to the touch.
Weakness: Affected fingers or the entire hand may feel weak, making it difficult to grip or hold objects.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending, straightening, or coordinating finger movements
Numbness or Tingling: A “pins and needles” sensation (especially for nerve injuries).
Loss of Sensation: In more severe cases, the affected area may lose the ability to feel temperature, pressure, or touch.
Deformity: Severe tendon injuries can cause fingers to appear bent or unable to straighten.
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in the hand, seeking comprehensive orthopedic care is vital. Early intervention can improve recovery outcomes and prevent long-term problems. Some common tendon and nerve injuries we treat at OrthoGeorgia include:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the wrist that leads to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
Ulnar Nerve Injury (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome): Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, affecting grip strength and causing numbness in the ring and pinky fingers.
Flexor Tendon Injuries: These tendons help bend the fingers and thumb. A deep cut or laceration can sever a flexor tendon, making it impossible to curl the fingers.
Extensor Tendon Injuries: Located on the back of the hand, these tendons straighten the fingers and thumb. Injuries to these tendons can result in an inability to fully extend the fingers.
How are Tendon and Nerve Injuries Diagnosed?
At OrthoGeorgia, we use a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing to accurately diagnose tendon and nerve injuries. A thorough and accurate diagnosis ensures the most effective treatment plan for each patient, with our team always available to answer questions and address concerns. When you visit us with a suspected tendon or nerve injury in the hand, you will likely experience the following diagnostic steps.
Discussion of Medical History: We discuss the circumstances surrounding the injury, any prior conditions, and the patient’s symptoms to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue.
Physical Examination: Our specialists assess the function of the affected hand, checking for pain, weakness, range of motion, and sensation.
Imaging Studies:
X-Rays: Help identify fractures or bone abnormalities that may be contributing to the injury.
MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including tendons and nerves, to detect injuries that are not visible on X-rays.
Ultrasound: May be used to assess tendon movement and detect abnormalities in soft tissues.
Electrodiagnostic Tests: Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) measure electrical activity in the muscles and nerves, helping to determine the extent of nerve damage.
Treatment for Tendon and Nerve Injuries of the Hand in Central GA
At OrthoGeorgia, we offer both nonsurgical and surgical treatment options for tendon and nerve injuries. Our goal is to restore hand function and improve quality of life through individualized care, no matter the patient’s age, activity level, or recovery goals.
Nonsurgical Tendon and Nerve Injury Treatment
Conservative treatment is often effective for minor injuries and early-stage conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or mild tendonitis. Nonsurgical treatment options often recommended by our hand specialists include:
Rest and Immobilization: Using splints or braces to limit movement and allow healing.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and swelling.
Steroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections to relieve inflammation in cases of nerve compression or tendonitis.
Nerve Gliding Exercises: Techniques to help free compressed nerves and improve mobility.
Surgery for Tendon and Nerve Injuries
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct damaged tendons and nerves. At OrthoGeorgia, your surgeon will walk you through your treatment options and ensure that you are comfortable with your surgical plan every step of the way. Common surgical options for tendon and nerve injuries in the hand include:
Tendon Repair: Suturing torn tendons to restore function.
Tendon Transfer: Moving a healthy tendon from another part of the body to compensate for a damaged one.
Nerve Repair or Grafting: Reconnecting severed nerves or using grafts to bridge gaps.
Carpal Tunnel Release: Relieving pressure on the median nerve in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Decompression Surgery: Removing tissue or bone that is compressing a nerve.
Post-surgical rehabilitation plays a critical role in the healing process. We are proud to offer our patients convenient access to hand and upper extremity rehab services in Macon, Warner Robins, and Kathleen. Our occupational therapists and certified hand therapists work closely with patients to ensure a smooth recovery, providing guidelines and exercises to rebuild strength and dexterity.
Other Hand and Upper Extremity Conditions We Treat at OrthoGeorgia
At OrthoGeorgia, we are committed to providing expert care for each patient who visits our office. Our orthopedic specialists, hand surgeons, and rehabilitation therapists work together to create personalized treatment plans catered to each patient’s needs and recovery goals. In addition to tendon and nerve injuries, OrthoGeorgia specializes in treating a wide range of hand and upper extremity conditions in Central GA, including:
Happy Memorial Day! OrthoGeorgia will be closed on Monday, May 26th. Both Urgent Care locations will be closed May 24-26 and will reopen at 7:30am on Tuesday, May 27th.
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