Wrist Conditions
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Niggling Wrist Pain?
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Early Treatment can Prevent Permanent Nerve Damage and Resultant Weakness
Wrist Pain?
Is it Acute or Chronic?
Acute means it happened Suddenly and Chronic means it Progressed over time.
- Fractures
- Dislocations
- Sprains
- Tendinitis
- Acute Gout
Chronic wrist pathologies include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. In this condition, there is Compression of the Median nerve in the wrist. This causes Numbness and Tingling in the hand.
- Osteoarthritis. This occurs when there is degeneration of the joint Cartilage and Bones, leading to pain and stiffness of the joint.
- Tendinitis. There is inflammation of the tendons in the wrist causing Pain and Resulting in difficulty in movement.
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis. There is inflammation of the tendons in the thumb, that run along the thumb side of the wrist and attach to the base of the thumb. The tendons are constricted by the Sheath that they run through to get from the wrist to the hand.
- Ganglion cysts. These are Fluid-Filled masses that form on the wrist and can cause pain and weakness of the hand.
- TFCC tears (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex). This is due to TFCC cartilage tearing with overuse. e.g., Golfer’s
- Kienböck’s Disease. This occurs as a result of breakdown of bone in the wrist.
- Flexor or Extensor Tendonitis. This occurs when there is degeneration of the tendon.
- Pain or tenderness of the wrist
- Stiffness and/ or limited range of motion
- Weakness in gripping objects
- Swelling of the wrist
- Numbness or tingling sensation of hand and fingers
- Grinding or clicking sound during movement
- in the case of Ganglion, there is a visible bump or mass on the wrist.
Diagnosis
In order to assess Shoulder Pathology properly. A detailed History, Examination and Imaging are required. Generally a X-ray, MRI or Ultrasound are needed to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment
These symptoms can be Progressive and Worsen over time if the underlying condition is not treated. It is important to see Dr NM van der Berg, an Orthopaedic Surgeon, if you experience any of these symptoms. He will create a Customized Treatment Plan based on your Specific Needs as his patient. Treatment options vary depending on the Cause and the Severity of the condition. It can range from a Steroid Injection into the joint, Oral Medication and Physiotherapy, or Surgery for severe cases.
- Arthroscopy
- Fusion (arthrodesis)
- Joint Replacement (arthroplasty)
- Debridement or Cleaning of the joint
- Tendons and Ligaments Repair or Reconstruction
- Cyst removal
- TFCC repair
- Bone Realignment (osteotomy)
- Decompression surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Dr NM van der Berg, Orthopaedic Surgeon always opts for non-operative treatment unless surgery is warranted. If an operation is required, it will be dependent on the pathology, and the severity of the condition.
It is important to see Dr NM van der Berg, an Orthopaedic Surgeon early for chronic wrist pathology because:
- An early diagnosis and treatment will result in a better outcome. Often preventing permanent nerve damage and irreparable weakness of the hand.
- Early treatment can definitely result in a better outcome and prevent the need for more invasive surgery in the future.
It is important to see Dr NM van der Berg, an Orthopaedic Surgeon, if you are experiencing Persistent or Severe pain in the ankle, as this may indicate a more Serious underlying condition that requires prompt Evaluation and Treatment. These conditions can worsen over time as a result of Repeated stress, Overuse, or Injury and can lead to Long-Term pain, Instability, and Limited Mobility if left untreated. Don’t compromise in the quality of your life.
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Life Empangeni Private Hospital, Doctors Block A, Suite 6, Corner of Biyela & Ukula Street, Empangeni, 3880
Covers Richards Bay, Empangeni & Surrounding Areas
