Orthopedic Specialists Share Top 10 Chronic Hand Injuries and Four Signs to Look For
Orthopedic Specialists Share Top 10 Chronic Hand Injuries and Four Signs to Look For You use your hands for almost everything you do. Whether you’re playing a game, working at a computer, or even just scrolling on your phone, you’re using the bones, muscles, and tendons in your hands and fingers. Recognizing Hand Problems Because you use your hands so much, you’ll likely notice quickly if something feels wrong. But figuring out what caused the problem and if you need to see a doctor can be tricky. Here are Four Hand Injury Signs to Look For Pain in Your Hand or Fingers If you feel pain in your hand or fingers, it could be a sign of injury. The pain can be mild or severe and might be in one finger, several fingers, or your whole hand. Swelling and Bruising Acute hand injuries often bring visible signs of injury like swelling or bruising, along with pain. Acute injuries, such as those from sports or accidental falls, can cause constant pain. Overuse injuries may cause pain that comes and goes or gets worse with time, depending on your activity. Decreased Range of Motion A hand injury can affect your ability to carry out your daily activities. If your hand is swollen, it can be hard to bend your fingers or make a fist. Your wrist might also feel stiff, and you might not be able to move some fingers. Hand or Finger Weakness An injury might make your hand feel weak or clumsy. It could be hard to grip objects, pick things up, or do tasks that need precise movements like buttoning a shirt. Ten common chronic hand injuries: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Caused by pressure on the median nerve, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. Arthritis Inflammation of the joints, commonly affecting the hands and causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Tendinitis Inflammation of the tendons, often due to overuse or repetitive motions. Trigger Finger A condition where a finger gets stuck in a bent position due to inflammation of the tendon sheath. Anatomy of a Trigger Finger Stenosing tenosynovitis is when a finger gets stuck in a bent position and then snaps straight as illustrated below: De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis Inflammation of the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain and swelling. Ganglion Cysts Noncancerous lumps that develop along the tendons or joints of the wrists or hands. Dupuytren’s Contracture A thickening and tightening of the tissue under the skin of the palm, leading to curled fingers. Tenosynovitis Inflammation of the fluid-filled sheath that surrounds a tendon, often affecting the hand and wrist. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Damage caused by repetitive movements or overuse, affecting the muscles, tendons, and nerves of the hand. Intersection Syndrome Inflammation of the tendons that control the thumb, causing pain on the back of the forearm and wrist. Is Chronic Hand or Finger Pain Stopping You From Doing What You Love? In less than 5 minutes, our assessment tells you and our orthopedic partner specialists where you are on your healthcare journey. Based on your answers you can instantly schedule an appointment with a specialist who understands your pain and your lifestyle.
Understanding Knee Joint Replacement Surgery: Exploring Total Arthroplasty vs. Partial Arthroplasty
Understanding Knee Joint Replacement Surgery: Exploring Total Arthroplasty vs. Partial Arthroplasty Considering Knee Joint Replacement Surgery? You may have already heard it referred to as arthroplasty. It is a common procedure aimed at easing pain and restoring mobility for people with severe joint damage due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Types of Knee Joint Replacement Did you know there are different types of joint replacement surgeries? Total Knee Replacement This involves replacing the whole damaged joint with a prosthetic one. It is typically done when the damage is extensive and affects the entire joint. For example, in total knee arthroplasty, both the femur and tibia are replaced with artificial components, along with the kneecap if necessary. Partial Knee Replacement This procedure only fixes the damaged parts while keeping the healthy parts intact. It’s a quicker option and might preserve more of your natural joint. This approach is suitable for people with localized joint damage. Choosing the Right Option The choice between total and partial knee replacement depends on factors such as the extent of joint damage, overall health, and lifestyle preferences. Talking to an orthopedic surgeon is essential to determine the best option for you. Knee Anatomy The knee is the body’s largest joint and is made up of four main structures: bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Bones: The femur, tibia, and patella form the knee joint, with the patella providing protection. Articular Cartilage: Covers the ends of the femur, tibia, and patella, allowing smooth movement. Meniscus: Two tough, rubbery cartilage pieces act as shock absorbers and stabilize the joint. Ligaments: Connect bones and stabilize the knee, including collateral ligaments (side-to-side motion) and cruciate ligaments (front-to-back motion). Tendons: Connect muscles to bones, with the quadriceps tendon linking thigh muscles to the patella and the patellar tendon connecting the patella to the tibia. Whether it’s total or partial, knee joint replacement surgery can significantly improve the lives of people dealing with severe joint pain. It’s all about getting back to feeling good and living life to the fullest! Your Path to Pain Relief If you are tired of spending countless hours researching options for knee pain, click here to take our knee assessment. You will spend minutes, not hours, finding the right specialist for your needs. Let Vitruvy streamline your healthcare journey, so you can focus on what matters most.
Treatment for Knee Injuries with R.I.C.E. Method
Treatment for Knee Injuries with R.I.C.E. Method Are you experiencing knee pain or discomfort? Knowing how to manage it right after an injury is important for a faster recovery. One effective method is the RICE protocol. Steps in the RICE Protocol Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured knee. Ice: Apply cold packs for 20 minutes multiple times a day, but don’t place ice directly on the skin. Compression: Gently wrap the injured area with a soft bandage or ace wrap. Elevation: Elevate the injury above heart level while resting to reduce swelling. Common Knee Injuries Treated with RICE Let’s explore three common knee injuries where this protocol can be beneficial: Patellar Tendonitis This involves inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome Also known as runner’s knee, this condition causes pain under or around the kneecap, often aggravated by activities like running or climbing stairs. IT Band Syndrome Inflammation of the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee, typically causing pain on the outer side of the knee. When to Seek Prompt Treatment Seek prompt treatment if you experience: A popping noise and knee instability during injury Severe pain or inability to move the knee Limping or swelling at the injury site Non-Surgical Treatment Options Treatment approaches vary based on factors like injury severity, age, overall health, and activity level. Non-surgical options may include: Immobilization Using a brace or cast to restrict knee movement, or crutches to avoid weight-bearing. Physical therapy Targeted exercises to restore knee function and strengthen supporting leg muscles. NSAIDs Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or naproxen for pain and swelling reduction. Learn More You can learn more about RICE as well as sprains, strains, and other soft tissue knee injuries here. RICE method for knee pain Rest Ice Compression Elevation
Understanding Knee Pain and Common Knee Injuries
Understanding Knee Pain and Common Knee Injuries From the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, we are summarizing common knee injuries, including: Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries Collateral Ligament Injuries Meniscal Tears Tendon Tears Fractures Dislocation Click here to view original source content. Knee Joint Anatomy The knee is the body’s largest joint and easily injured, comprising four main structures: bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Bones: The femur, tibia, and patella form the knee joint, with the patella providing protection. Articular Cartilage: Covers the ends of the femur, tibia, and patella, allowing smooth movement. Meniscus: Two tough, rubbery cartilage pieces act as shock absorbers and stabilize the joint. Ligaments: Connect bones and stabilize the knee, including collateral ligaments (side-to-side motion) and cruciate ligaments (front-to-back motion). Tendons: Connect muscles to bones, with the quadriceps tendon linking thigh muscles to the patella and the patellar tendon connecting the patella to the tibia. Understanding Common Knee Injuries and Their Symptoms The most common knee injuries include sprains and tears of soft tissues (e.g., ligaments, meniscus), fractures, and dislocation. In many cases, injuries involve more than one structure in the knee. Pain and swelling are the most common signs of knee injury. In addition, the knee may catch or lock. Some knee injuries (e.g., ACL tear) cause instability — the feeling that your knee is giving way. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries The anterior cruciate ligament is often injured during sports activities. ACL injuries are more likely to occur in athletes who participate in cutting and pivoting sports like soccer, football, and basketball. Changing direction rapidly or landing from a jump incorrectly can tear the ACL. About half of all injuries to the anterior cruciate ligament occur along with damage to other structures in the knee, such as articular cartilage, meniscus, or other ligaments. Comparison of Normal and Torn ACL in the Knee Tears or ruptures of the ACL, a major ligament in the knee, are often due to sports injuries that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction such as soccer, basketball, football, skiing, tennis, or gymnastics. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Injuries The posterior cruciate ligament is often injured from a blow to the front of the knee, while the knee is bent. This often occurs in motor vehicle crashes and sports-related contact. Posterior cruciate ligament tears tend to be partial tears with the potential to heal on their own. Collateral Ligament Injuries Injuries to the collateral ligaments are usually caused by a force that pushes the knee sideways. These are often contact injuries. Injuries to the MCL are usually caused by a direct blow to the outside of the knee and are often sports-related. Blows to the inside of the knee that push the knee outwards may injure the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). Lateral collateral ligament tears occur less frequently than other knee injuries. Meniscal Tears Acute meniscal tears often happen during sports. Tears in the meniscus can occur when twisting, cutting, pivoting, or being tackled. Meniscal tears may also occur as a result of arthritis or aging. Even an awkward twist when getting up from a chair may be enough to cause a tear if the menisci have weakened with age. Illustration of Knee Meniscus Tear Anatomy Injury to the cartilage between the femur and tibia, which can occur from twisting or turning quickly, often with the foot planted while the knee is bent. Tendon Tears The quadriceps and patellar tendons can be stretched and torn. Although anyone can injure these tendons, tears are more common among middle-aged people who play running or jumping sports. Falls, direct force to the front of the knee, and landing awkwardly from a jump are common causes of knee tendon injuries. Fractures The most common bone broken around the knee is the patella. The ends of the femur and tibia where they meet to form the knee joint can also be fractured. Many fractures around the knee are caused by high energy trauma, such as falls from significant heights and motor vehicle collisions. Dislocation A dislocation occurs when the bones of the knee are out of place, either completely or partially. For example, the femur and tibia can be forced out of alignment, and the patella can also slip out of place. Dislocations can be caused by an abnormality in the structure of a person’s knee. In people who have normal knee structure, dislocations are most often caused by high energy trauma, such as falls, motor vehicle crashes, and sports-related contact.
Protect Your Wrists: Learn About Common Injuries, Symptoms, and Solutions
Protect Your Wrists: Learn About Common Injuries, Symptoms, and Solutions Your wrists are constantly in action, whether you’re playing sports, typing at a desk, or lifting weights. The bones, muscles, and tendons in your wrists are always engaged, making them susceptible to various injuries. The wide range of motion required in many sports activities puts additional strain on your wrists. Acute injuries can occur from incidents like falls or impacts during contact sports, while chronic wrist pain often results from wear-and-tear or conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding Wrist Strain and Common Injuries Here are the most common chronic wrist injuries Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) This condition occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. Some people with CTS may struggle with tasks like buttoning shirts, opening jars, or using utensils due to numbness and weakness in the hands. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life if you have CTS; severe cases may require surgical intervention to relieve the pressure on the nerve. Wrist Arthritis Both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can affect the wrist, causing chronic pain, swelling, and stiffness. When conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, surgery may be needed to improve function, reduce pain, and get back to living life to the fullest. Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Tears The TFCC is a structure that supports the small bones of the wrist. Tears in this complex can cause pain, especially with twisting movements like swinging a golf club, playing tennis, knitting or simply opening a jar. Whether through sports or daily activities, TFCC tears can significantly affect both active individuals and retirees, highlighting the importance of proper wrist care and timely intervention. De Quervain’s Tendinosis (De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis) A condition where the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist become inflamed, causing pain and swelling. It commonly affects those who perform repetitive hand movements, such as gripping or twisting. If conservative treatments like splinting and corticosteroid injections are ineffective, surgery may be needed to release the constricted tendons. Is Chronic Wrist Pain Stopping You from Doing What You Love? In less than 5 minutes, our assessment tells you and our physician partner specialists where you are on your healthcare journey. Based on your answers you can instantly schedule an appointment with a specialist who understands your pain and your lifestyle.
From Tennis Elbow to Bursitis: Navigating Nine Chronic Elbow Injuries
From Tennis Elbow to Bursitis: Navigating Nine Chronic Elbow Injuries Your elbows work overtime. Whether you’re playing sports, working at a desk, or lifting objects, the bones, muscles, and tendons in your elbows are constantly in use. According to orthopedic elbow specialists, this wide range of motion also makes elbows susceptible to numerous injuries. Some acute injuries can result from single incidents, like falling or getting hit during contact sports. Chronic elbow pain can stem from wear-and-tear injuries or conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Here are the Nine Most Common Chronic Elbow Injuries Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) Inflammation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow, causing pain and tenderness. Tennis Elbow Anatomy Overuse injury causing pain on the outside of the elbow, often due to repetitive wrist and arm motions, as illustrated below: Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) A type of tendonitis that results in pain and inflammation of the tendons connecting the forearm to the elbow. This condition can impact the ability to flex and rotate the wrist and forearm. Initially, symptoms often present as minor pain or tenderness on the inner elbow. As the condition progresses, the pain can radiate up and down the arm. Anatomy of Golfer’s Elbow Similar to tennis elbow, but the pain is located on the inside of the elbow as illustrated below. Bursitis The elbow bursa (olecranon bursa) is a fluid-filled sac that cushions your bones, muscles, and tendons. Infection or repetitive movements can irritate or damage the bursa, leading to swelling and pain. People with physically demanding jobs, musicians, and athletes are particularly susceptible to bursitis. Even common activities such as gardening, painting, and shoveling can cause bursitis. Most non-infectious cases of elbow bursitis are treated at home over three to six weeks with rest, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and joint immobilization. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, causing numbness, tingling, and pain in the forearm and hand. Osteoarthritis (OA) Commonly the result of “wear-and-tear” on the joint or prior traumatic injury, osteoarthritis causes pain and stiffness in the elbow when the cartilage wears down and bone rubs against bone. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) The most common type of arthritis in the elbow. Most people are familiar with the idea that rheumatoid nodules affect the fingers, but did you know they can also develop on the tips of your elbows? RA causes elbow instability, pain, and difficulty bending or straightening the elbow. Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) Injury Damage to the ligament on the inside of the elbow, common in throwing athletes. Osteochondritis Dissecans A condition where a fragment of bone and cartilage separates from the end of the bone, causing pain and joint instability. Triceps Tendinitis Inflammation of the triceps tendon at the back of the elbow, causing pain and swelling. Is Chronic Hand or Finger Pain Stopping You From Doing What You Love? In less than 5 minutes, our assessment tells you and our orthopedic partner specialists where you are on your healthcare journey. Based on your answers you can instantly schedule an appointment with a specialist who understands your pain and your lifestyle.
Debunking 6 Common Misconceptions About Orthopedic Surgery
Debunking 6 Common Misconceptions About Orthopedic Surgery Misinformation about medical procedures is unfortunately all over the place, and orthopedic surgery is no exception. At Vitruvy, we’re committed to providing facts and clearing up some widespread myths surrounding orthopedic surgery to empower you in making informed healthcare decisions for yourself or your loved one. Misconception 1: Orthopedic Surgery is Only for Athletes and Seniors Reality: While athletes and seniors can be more likely to experience certain orthopedic issues, musculoskeletal problems like workplace injuries, accidents, repetitive strain injuries, or even arthritis can affect anyone. Workplace Injures Strains, sprains and fractures from physical labor or accidents. Repetitive Strain Injuries Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis from repetitive motions. Accidents Fractures, dislocations, or ligament tears from falls or other accidents. Arthritis Joint pain and deterioration affecting people of all ages. Sports Injuries Torn ligament, meniscus tears, and other injuries from sports and physical activity. Misconception 2: Surgery is Always The First Line of Defense for Orthopedic Problems Reality: Most doctors try the most basic treatments to see if they work first. From physical therapy to medication and lifestyle adjustments, there are many options to be explored before considering surgery. Misconception 3: Orthopedic Surgery Recovery Takes a Long Time Reality: Surgical techniques and post-operative care have changed significantly over recent years. This has made for shorter recovery times for most people. With minimally invasive procedures, better pain management tools, and personalized recovery plans, getting back to everyday life can be faster than you might think. Misconception 4: Orthopedic Surgery Benefits are Only Temporary Reality: Orthopedic surgeries often have long-term benefits. Joint replacements, for instance, offer lasting pain relief and improved function, making quality of life better for years to come. Misconception 5: Orthopedic Surgery is Risky Reality: While all surgeries carry some risks, modern orthopedic procedures are generally very safe. Thanks to advancements in surgical technology, sterilization protocols, and anesthesia, the likelihood of complications is far less than it used to be. Additionally, many orthopedic surgeries are now performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as arthroscopy. Arthroscopy allows orthopedic surgeons to diagnose and treat joint problems through small incisions, reducing recovery time and minimizing the risk of infection. These minimally invasive procedures can result in less postoperative pain, shorter stays, and faster recovery time. Misconception 6: Orthopedic Surgery Pain is Unbearable Reality: Pain management has come a long way in recent years and surgical teams have a wide range of tools to choose from, including medication, nerve blocks, and innovative pain-relief techniques, to ensure your comfort throughout the recovery journey. At Vitruvy, we’re committed to providing accurate insights to guide your treatment decisions and help you take your first step towards getting better, faster. If you’re living with chronic orthopedic pain, our free assessment could help you instantly book a consultation with a top specialist based on your unique needs.
Understanding Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery: Exploring Total Arthroplasty vs. Partial Arthroplasty
Understanding Shoulder Joint Replacement Surgery: Exploring Total Arthroplasty vs. Partial Arthroplasty Understanding Shoulder Joint Replacement You may have already heard it referred to as arthroplasty. It is a common procedure aimed at easing pain and restoring mobility for people with severe joint damage due to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Types of Shoulder Joint Replacement Did you know there are different types of joint replacement surgeries? Total Shoulder Replacement This involves replacing the whole damaged joint with a prosthetic one. It is typically done when the damage is extensive and affects the entire joint. Partial Shoulder Replacement This procedure only fixes the damaged parts while keeping the healthy parts intact. It’s a quicker option and might preserve more of your natural joint. This approach is suitable for people with localized joint damage. Choosing the Right Option The choice between total and partial shoulder replacement depends on factors such as the extent of joint damage, overall health, and lifestyle preferences. Talking to an orthopedic surgeon is essential to determine the best option for you. Whether it’s total or partial, shoulder joint replacement surgery can significantly improve the lives of people dealing with severe joint pain. It’s all about getting back to feeling good and living life to the fullest! Your Path to Pain Relief If you are tired of spending countless hours researching options for shoulder pain, click here to take our shoulder assessment. You will spend minutes, not hours, finding the right specialist for your needs. Let Vitruvy streamline your healthcare journey, so you can focus on what matters most.
Take Control of Your Healthcare
Take Control of Your Healthcare So many people delay care because the effort to get better seems unsurmountable. How long will it take to get into my primary care physician? Will I walk away with a diagnosis? Will I have to schedule another appointment for x-rays or MRI? What happens next? Will they give me a list of specialists? Which one should I call? How long will it take to get in? Do they understand my needs as a runner, an active grandparent, a fulltime caregiver for my mom? Our goal at Vitruvy is to take all those questions out of the equation. In 5 minutes, our assessment tells you and our physician partner specialists where you are on your healthcare journey. Based on your answers you can instantly schedule an appointment with a specialist who understands your injury and your lifestyle. Your Journey to Recovery Can Begin Today Hip As a complex and weight-bearing joint, hips are susceptible to a variety of issues and injuries including inflammation, tendon tears, and fractures. An orthopedic specialist can help you maintain mobility and stay active. Take assessment. Shoulder Whether dealing with chronic conditions like arthritis or acute injuries such as rotator cuff tears, early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist can significantly improve outcomes and get you on the road to recovery. Take assesssment. Knee As a vital and complex joint, knees are prone to various issues ranging from chronic to acute injuries. Proper knee care is essential for maintaining mobility, achieving personal milestones, and ensuring overall joint health. Take assessment. Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Caring for hands, wrist, and elbows allows you to maintain dexterity, strength, and overall function, enabling you to perform daily tasks, pursue hobbies, and achieve your personal goals. Take assessment. Foot and Ankle Caring for your feet and ankles is essential for maintaining balance, preventing injuries, and ensuring overall mobility. This enables you to enjoy an active lifestyle, participate in sports, and confidently carry out daily activities. Take assessment.
Start Using Your Strength to Get Better
Start Using Your Strength to Get Better We know you’re tough. You have chronic pain, but you won’t let it stop you from living your life. You are probably still mowing the lawn, but you think twice about the inclines. You don’t hesitate to babysit the grandkids though you worry about carrying them up and down the stairs. You are still biking 50 miles every weekend, but you spend much of the week recovering. So why aren’t you putting that strength to good use, getting better? Advances in Modern Joint Replacement and Resurfacing Modern joint replacement or resurfacing is not as invasive as it once was thanks to : Minimally Invasive Techniques These procedures use smaller incisions, reducing damage to surrounding tissues, which leads to quicker recovery times and less post-operative pain. Advanced Surgical Technology Cutting-edge tools and technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgery and 3D imaging, enhance precision, improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Customized Implant Options Tailored implants designed to fit a person’s unique anatomy ensure better functionality and longevity, leading to more natural movement and a higher quality of life post-surgery. Most people are up and climbing stairs hours after surgery. And most people are recovering at home. Put Your Tenacity to Work and Crush Your Recovery Plan Your body may be limiting your ability to do what you love today; and although modern healthcare can’t restore you to your 20s, it can get you back to what you love. Are you ready to use your strength to get better? Take a Vitruvy Assessment today and start your journey back to health.
