The extensor tendons of the hand are important parts of our normal hand function. These tendons work together to straighten, or extend, the fingers. Each finger is controlled by at least one extensor tendon (EDC tendons) which begins as a strong muscle in the forearm. The index and small fingers often have an additional extensor […]
Before surgery: Ask questions before surgery and make sure you understand: (1) your diagnosis, (2) the planned surgical procedure, (3) recovery process, and (4) possible complications. Write a list of your questions or concerns. Please provide out office with a list of your current medications, doses, medical allergies, previous surgeries, and problems with anesthesia. Wash […]
With the weather turning cold and the winter approaching, many people ask “what is a skier’s thumb”? A skier’s thumb refers to an acute injury to the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the thumb metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint. This often occurs from a sudden, forceful deviation of the thumb, such as when the thumb is bent […]
The cost of medical care has increased significantly in the United States in recent years. Due to changes in health insurance plans, many patients are now responsible for paying a larger portion of the cost associated with the treatment they receive. Raleigh Hand Center physicians are aware of the financial burden of medical expenses for […]
If you recently injured your finger and are wondering if it is broken, the best thing to do is get an x-ray to find out. You can get x-rays in your physician’s office, urgent care, or local emergency room. Many breaks or fractures in the fingers can be misdiagnosed as “just a sprain” or a […]
Arthritis is typically diagnosed on x-rays. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is related to wear-and-tear processes, genetics, injuries, and it is a normal part of the aging process. An arthritis joint will demonstrate narrowing of the space between the bones as the cartilage thins, bone spurs on the edges of […]
Patients with carpal tunnel syndrome commonly report numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. The thumb, index, and middle fingers are usually affected the most. Some patients notice that the hand feels cold, swollen, “asleep” or describe “poor circulation” in the fingers. Symptoms can awaken patients at night with “pins and needles” pain […]
This article was published in the Triangle Physician Magazine, February 2014 issue. Dupuytren’s disease is a benign, fibroproliferative disorder affecting the hands of many adults. The condition is characterized by abnormal deposition of collagen within the palmar fascia of the hand leading to development of nodules and cords in the palm. As the pathologic fibrous […]
Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by a red, hot, swollen, extremely painful joint. Gout frequently affects joints in the big toe, ankle or knee. Gout can also involve the fingers, wrist and elbow. A “gout attack” usually starts all of the sudden and the pain increases rapidly. Often the symptoms begin […]
Article published in the The Triangle Physician Magazine, November 2013 Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, progressive degenerative joint disorder which can cause pain, impaired mobility, and decreased health-related quality of life. As our population ages, there has been increased public interest in effective treatment options for OA. Total joint arthroplasty (joint replacement) is a well-established […]
