Overusing your hand predisposes you to multiple conditions that can cause persistent discomfort, which may hinder you from performing regular activities. Common hand injuries include fractures, broken fingers or hands, cysts, or cuts. Medical intervention is the best way to manage La Jolla hand injuries to prevent disease progression and preserve hand function. Collaborating with a trusted provider ensures quality medical care and patient-centeredness treatment to address your symptoms.
Typical symptoms of hand injuries
Hand injuries vary depending on the cause and affected tissues. Your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical exam and review your symptoms to determine the type of hand injury you have. An accurate diagnosis will prevent treatment delays and guarantee successful clinical outcomes. Most patients with hand injuries may experience
- Bruising
- Deformity
- Pain
- Tenderness upon palpation
- Loss of sensation in hand or fingers
- Electric shock sensation extending towards your wrist and fingers
- Weakness
- Swelling
- Pain when straightening fingers
- Lumps along the tendons and joints in your wrists or hands
- Popping sound upon finger movement
- Painful lump on the base of the finger (palm side of the hand)
- Limited hand movement
- Difficulty lifting heavy objects
Early intervention for hand injury is critical to prevent clinical complications. Seek urgent care if you notice acute pain after a fall or a blow to analyze your condition and receive appropriate care for your hand injury.
Some patients do not experience immediate signs of hand injury associated with their condition or after an accident. However, be keen to notice any gradual symptoms and seek emergency care if these signs disrupt your life.
What causes hand injuries?
Your hand injury may develop after a sport-related accident such as a fall or blow. You may also develop hand complications gradually due to repetitive hand motion or maintaining poor form. Various underlying hand conditions also cause pain and tissue damage. For example, arthritis.
Popular types of hand injuries
There is a wide range of hand conditions and injuries. Your doctor will conduct appropriate tests, including a physical exam, to accurately determine your type of hand injury before analyzing results to determine the cause of symptoms. The most popular types of hand injuries include:
- Broken/fractured hand or finger
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Ganglion cysts
- Trigger finger/thumb
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendinitis
What are the risk factors for hand injuries?
Risk factors for hand injuries depend on the cause of complications. Playing sports puts you at risk of acute injuries like a broken hand or finger. Degenerative conditions like tendinitis, osteoarthritis, and trigger finger occur due to overuse of hands and fingers. Gender and age are also risk factors for degenerative hand conditions. Underlying inflammatory and nerve concerns predispose you to complications like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Your doctor will review your medical and family history to determine any predispositions to hand conditions. Remember to inform your doctor about your lifestyle, especially if you play sports, to determine the cause of your acute injury.
Contact Upper Extremity Specialists if you have concerns about the health of your hand to receive an individualized treatment approach to restore structure and function for improved mobility.
