Hands are important for daily activities, providing the capability to perform both broad and fine motor movements – be it picking up large items, completing delicate tasks, having the ability to use tools, or even to control a forceful grip. Each hand consists of 19 bones in total, and is made up of 4 segments, which are the fingers, back of the hand, palm and wrist. The main nerves of the hand include the median, ulnar and radial nerves, which function to relay messages from and towards the brain, thereby creating sensation and controlling movement. On this page are common hand injuries, key medical conditions affecting the hand and the treatment options available.
Common Hand Injuries
Hands are prone to a number of common injuries caused by sports or recreational activities, accidental falls and even everyday wear and tear. Most minor injuries like cuts and bruises heal on their own, but certain injuries may lead to serious conditions that can affect hand function in the long run. Common hand injuries include:
Fracture
Trauma may break the bones that make up the hand, be it the small (phalanges) or long bones (metacarpals) of the fingers. The injury may need surgical attention should the force of impact cause the bone to break and move from its original position. Fractures can result from a fall, a twisting injury or from direct contact in sports.
Symptoms of bone fracture in the hand include pain, tenderness, swelling, deformity at the area of the fracture and limited movement. For minor cases, treatment usually needs cast support to limit movement until the bone fragments heal, which can take about 6 – 8 weeks. Surgery may be needed to align and stabilise badly deformed fractures. Less severe fractures can also be fixed with strong metal screws and plates instead of having a cast. This allows the immediate use of the hand without the inconvenience of a cast and may hasten a return to sports. Consult with a doctor to understand the treatment options available.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition where swelling occurs in the joint area. In the hands, osteoarthritis is common, where the protective cushion between the joints (cartilage) wears out due to ageing or wear and tear. Genetic factors, joint instability and injury may also contribute to osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, limited motion, swelling at the joint area, and at times a grinding sensation when moving the joint.
Supplements such as glucosamine, fish oil, ginger and turmeric can help with symptoms of arthritis. If the condition worsens, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) or steroid injections into the joint can relieve pain and swelling swiftly. In very severe cases that are not responding to these, surgery may be needed to fuse the joint or replace it with an artificial one. Consult with a doctor to understand the treatment options available.