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 and all of these structures are packed into a relatively small part of our bodies. These components must all be healthy for the hand to function well.

The relationship between all these structures is delicate and refined. An injury or disease can affect any or all of these structures and impair the use of the hand.

Hand specialists have received additional specialized training in the treatment of hand problems beyond their board certified specialty training in orthopaedic surgery, plastic surgery, or general surgery.  Many hand specialists also have expertise with problems of the elbow, arm, and shoulder. Some treat only children, some treat only adults, and some treat both. Common problems treated include:

• carpal tunnel syndrome
• tennis elbow
• wrist pain
• sports injuries of the hand and wrist
• fractures of the hand, wrist, and forearm
• trigger finger

Other problems treated can include arthritis, nerve and tendon injuries, and congenital limb differences (birth defects).

Not all problems treated by a hand specialist need surgery. They often recommend non-surgical treatments, such as medication, splints, therapy, or injections.  If you have pain in your fingers, hand, wrist or arm, or if you have other upper-extremity related concerns,  you may want to consult our hand specialist.