We rely on our hands for everything, that’s why hand, wrist or elbow pain can be so disabling and frustrating.
"When hand and upper extremity pain interferes with work, spending time on your hobbies or even getting yourself ready in the morning, it's time to seek medical advice," explains Dr. Brent Bamberger, a fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon at Orthopedic Associates.
"The hand is a unique area of the human body that is made up of bone, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, skin, and blood vessels," Dr. Bamberger said. "The relationship between all these structures is delicate and refined. An injury or disease can affect any or all of these structures and restrict the use of the hand, wrist, forearm or elbow," he explains.
If you have an eye problem, you see an eye doctor. If you have a heart problem, you see a cardiologist. If you have a hand problem, you should see a hand surgeon.
"Not all hand, wrist or elbow pain requires medical care," said Dr. Bamberger. Minor sprains and strains, for instance, usually respond to ice, rest and over-the-counter pain medications. But if pain and swelling last longer than a few days or become worse, see a doctor. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to poor healing, reduced range of motion and possible long-term disability.
If you have pain in your fingers, hand, wrist or elbow, you may want to consult a hand surgeon. You can schedule an appointment by calling 800.824.9861.
