Archive for category: Hand & Upper Extremity – Restoring Function and Dexterity

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The intricate anatomy and function of the hand and upper extremity demand specialized expertise. This category covers a wide range of conditions, from carpal tunnel syndrome and Dupuytren’s contracture to complex fractures, tendon injuries, and nerve compressions. We’ll explore the latest surgical techniques, analyze the effectiveness of various treatment options, and discuss the critical role of hand therapy. This section provides surgeons with the knowledge and skills to restore function and dexterity to the hand and upper extremity.

Occupational Therapy for Hand Rehabilitation

The Role of Occupational Therapy in Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation

Occupational therapy (OT) plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of patients with hand and upper extremity injuries and conditions. It focuses on helping individuals regain their independence and improve their quality of life by restoring function, reducing pain, and enhancing their ability to perform daily activities. This article explores the importance of occupational therapy in hand and upper extremity rehabilitation, reviews common therapy techniques and protocols, and examines the effectiveness of these interventions.

Importance of Occupational Therapy in Hand and Upper Extremity Rehabilitation

The human hand is a … Read more

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Diagnosis, Treatment

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Diagnosis and Treatment

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist1. The median nerve is responsible for providing feeling to the palm side of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. It also controls the muscles around the base of the thumb1. CTS is a progressive condition that can worsen over time without proper care3.

Symptoms

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Clavicle Fracture Management and Complications

Clavicle Fracture Management

Clavicle fractures are a common injury, accounting for 2% to 10% of all fractures1. They are one of the most fractured bones in the body3. Symptoms of a broken clavicle include severe pain and swelling at the site of the fracture, and in some cases, a visible deformity3. Clavicle fractures occur most frequently in men younger than 25 years old due to sports injuries and in patients older than 55 years old due to falls2. The middle third of the clavicle is the most common location for fractures (69% … Read more

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Congenital Hand Differences Review

Congenital Hand Differences: A Review of Diagnosis and Treatment

Congenital hand differences encompass a spectrum of limb malformations present at birth. These differences can significantly impact hand function and aesthetics, necessitating comprehensive diagnosis and appropriate treatment strategies 1. This article reviews three common congenital hand differences: polydactyly, syndactyly, and cleft hand, examining their diagnosis, treatment options, potential complications, and long-term outcomes.

Polydactyly

Polydactyly, derived from the Greek words “poly” (many) and “daktylos” (finger), is characterized by the presence of one or more extra fingers or toes. It is one of the most prevalent congenital hand abnormalities, affecting approximately 1 … Read more

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De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: Diagnosis, Treatment

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis: A Comprehensive Review of Diagnosis and Treatment

De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, with a prevalence of 0.5% in men and 1.3% in women 1, is a common condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. Specifically, it affects the abductor pollicis longus (APL) and the extensor pollicis brevis (EPB) tendons 2. These tendons control thumb movement and are located at the radial styloid process, where they pass through a fibrous tunnel or sheath 2. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis arises when these tendons become constricted within their sheath, leading to … Read more

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Distal Biceps Repair Techniques

Distal Biceps Tendon Rupture Repair: A Comparative Analysis of Surgical Techniques and Postoperative Management

Ruptures of the distal biceps tendon are often characterized by a sudden “pop” in the elbow, followed by pain, bruising, and weakness in bending the elbow or twisting the forearm 1. This type of injury commonly occurs in active individuals, especially men aged 30 to 50, when the tendon connecting the biceps muscle to the radius bone in the forearm tears due to forceful contraction or an eccentric load on a flexed elbow 2. If left untreated, these ruptures can lead to a significant … Read more

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Distal humerus fracture management

Distal Humerus Fractures: Surgical Management and Post-Operative Rehabilitation

Distal humerus fractures, breaks in the lower end of the upper arm bone (humerus), are a complex injury that can significantly impact elbow joint function. These fractures represent approximately 2% of all fractures and 30% of elbow fractures, with a rising incidence. They are most often caused by falls directly on the elbow, high-energy impacts in younger populations (such as those sustained during motor vehicle collisions), and falls on an outstretched arm with the elbow held tightly to brace against the fall1. This comprehensive review delves into the surgical management … Read more

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Distal radius fracture management

Distal Radius Fracture Management

Distal radius fractures are prevalent orthopedic injuries, often resulting from falls onto an outstretched hand. They affect individuals of all ages, with a higher incidence in children and older adults1. Effective management of these fractures is crucial for restoring wrist function and minimizing long-term complications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of distal radius fracture management, encompassing non-operative and surgical treatment options, criteria for treatment selection, and potential complications.

Non-Operative Treatment

Non-operative treatment is typically the preferred approach for stable, minimally displaced fractures2. The primary goal is to immobilize the fracture to … Read more

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Dupuytren’s Contracture Treatment Options

Dupuytren’s Contracture: A Comprehensive Review of Management Options

Dupuytren’s contracture is a hand condition that affects the fascia, the layer of fibrous tissue beneath the skin of the palm and fingers 1. It causes the fascia to thicken and tighten, forming cords and nodules that can pull the fingers into a bent position. While this can cause discomfort, it is not typically associated with severe pain 2. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as grasping objects, opening jars, or buttoning clothes 3. While there is no cure for Dupuytren’s contracture, various management options … Read more

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Elbow Arthroscopy: Indications and Outcomes

Elbow Arthroscopy: A Comprehensive Review of Indications, Outcomes, and Comparison to Open Surgery

Elbow arthroscopy has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a primarily diagnostic tool in the 1980s to a widely accepted method for treating a variety of elbow pathologies 1. This minimally invasive surgical technique involves inserting a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments into the elbow joint through small incisions. This approach allows surgeons to visualize and address intra-articular conditions with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. In this article, we delve into the current indications and outcomes for elbow arthroscopy, with a particular focus on the … Read more

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