Wrist Surgery & Pain Treatment

TFCC Adam Burger

Kienbock's PRC Proximal Row Carpectomy

Fractures around wrist

Fractures around the wrist can involve the bones of the forearm (radius and ulna), the carpal bones, or the distal end of the radius bone. These fractures can occur due to a variety of causes, including falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and other forms of trauma. The specific type and location of the wrist fracture will determine the treatment and potential complications. Here are some common types of wrist fractures:

Colles' Fracture

Colles' fracture is one of the most common wrist fractures. It typically involves a break in the distal end (near the wrist joint) of the radius bone. This fracture often occurs when a person falls onto an outstretched hand. Treatment may involve casting or, in some cases, surgical intervention, depending on the severity and displacement of the fracture.

Distal Ulna Fracture (Distal Ulnar Fracture)

Fractures of the ulna bone near the wrist can occur due to direct trauma or falls. These fractures may require immobilization, casting, or surgery, depending on the severity and stability of the fracture.

Smith's Fracture

Smith's fracture, also known as a reverse Colles' fracture, involves a break in the distal end of the radius, but the bone fragment is displaced in the opposite direction compared to Colles' fracture. Treatment may require casting or surgery, depending on the extent of displacement and the stability of the fracture.

Boxer's Fracture

A boxer's fracture involves a break in one of the metacarpal bones of the hand, typically the fifth metacarpal. This type of fracture can result from punching a hard object with a closed fist. Treatment may involve casting, splinting, or surgical intervention.

Scaphoid Fracture

The scaphoid is one of the carpal bones located near the base of the thumb. A scaphoid fracture can result from a fall on an outstretched hand. These fractures can be challenging to diagnose and treat because the blood supply to the scaphoid bone is relatively poor. Immobilization with a cast is often the initial treatment, but in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.

Barton's Fracture

Barton's fractures are intra-articular fractures that affect the distal radius and the radiocarpal joint. These fractures often require surgical management to restore joint alignment and stability.

Treatment for wrist fractures depends on the specific type, location, and displacement of the fracture. It’s important to seek prompt medical attention for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Proper management is crucial to ensure proper healing and to minimize complications such as joint stiffness, instability, and impaired wrist function. Your healthcare provider or orthopedic surgeon will determine the best course of treatment based on your specific injury.

Ailments around wrist joint

A variety of ailments and medical conditions can affect the wrist, leading to pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. These conditions can result from injuries, overuse, underlying medical conditions, or natural wear and tear. Here are some common ailments and conditions that can affect the wrist:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed. It can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Treatment may include wrist splints, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, and it can occur in the wrist. Wrist tendonitis can cause pain and swelling in the wrist area, especially with repetitive movements. Treatment often involves rest, anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, and physical therapy.

De Quervain's Tenosynovitis

This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the thumb and wrist. Treatment may include rest, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications.

Ganglion Cyst

A ganglion cyst is a noncancerous lump that can develop on the wrist or at the base of a finger. These cysts are filled with fluid and can cause pain or discomfort. Treatment options include aspiration (draining the cyst), corticosteroid injections, or surgical removal.

Arthritis

Arthritis can affect the wrist joint, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Osteoarthritis (wear and tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disease) are common types of arthritis that can affect the wrist. Treatment may involve medications, physical therapy, splinting, and in severe cases, surgical intervention

TFCC Injury

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a structure in the wrist that stabilizes the joint. Injuries to the TFCC can result in wrist pain and limited mobility. Treatment may include splinting, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to repair the TFCC.

Wrist Sprains and Strains

Wrist sprains involve stretching or tearing of the ligaments in the wrist, while strains involve injuries to the muscles and tendons. These injuries can result from traumatic events or overuse. Treatment may include rest, immobilization, and physical therapy.

Fractures

Wrist fractures, as discussed in a previous response, can occur in various locations within the wrist and can lead to pain, swelling, and loss of function. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture.

Dupuytren's Contracture

Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that causes the fingers, including the wrist and hand, to bend towards the palm. It can limit finger and wrist mobility. Treatment options may include splinting, physical therapy, or surgery.

It’s essential to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis if you experience persistent wrist pain or discomfort. Proper diagnosis is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment plan, which may include conservative measures such as rest, physical therapy, and medications, or in some cases, surgical intervention. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and improved wrist function.

Bones & Nerves offers comprehensive solutions for wrist pain treatment, addressing various conditions such as wrist bone fracture and Kienbock disease. Our esteemed orthopedic specialist employs advanced techniques for accurate diagnosis and effective wrist pain fracture management.