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Common Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Conditions

Broken Arm:

This results from trauma, such as falling on an outstretched hand, and is usually accompanied by a loud cracking at the moment of impact. It takes several weeks to heal, and surgery is not always needed.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

This is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Common symptoms include numbness and tingling in the hand, especially at night. If medication or splinting is unsuccessful, endoscopic or traditional carpal tunnel surgery may be done at our practice.

Elbow Bursitis:

If the bursa is inflamed from trauma, prolonged pressure, or infection, the skin may not be able to move freely over the underlying elbow bone. Surgery is needed when medication proves ineffective.

Elbow Fractures:

Also known as olecranon fractures for the tip of the elbow, breaking may occur from direct impact. These are extremely painful, and may be healed with either a sling or surgery.

Forearm Fracture in Kids:

A broken forearm is extremely painful, and yields the appearance of a bent arm. Fortunately, a child’s bones heal quickly with the help of prompt medical treatment, such as a cast, splint, or alignment surgery.

Ganglion Cyst:

The most common mass found on the hand or wrist. These are fluid-filled sacs that arise from irritated tendon sheaths or joint linings. They commonly will resolve on their own or wax and wane in size, so surgery is rarely required.

Golfer's Elbow:

This condition involves inflammation of the tendons on the inside of the elbow. Weight training, computer use, and other actions involving repetitive motions can result in a case of golfer's elbow.

Hand Fracture:

These breaks can occur in the small or long bones of the fingers, respectively known as the phalanges and metacarpals. When a cast, splint, or brace are not viable, stabilizing surgery may be needed.

Radial Head Fracture:

This refers to a break in the small bone, or radius, located in the forearm. Depending on the degree or type of fracture, surgery may be needed.

Tennis Elbow:

Resulting from overuse, this condition of the elbow is characterized by a painful sensation in the outer elbow and lessened ability to grip. Changing equipment, rest, therapy, wearing a brace, or medication may be necessary. In some cases, repair can only be achieved through open or arthroscopic surgery.

Trigger Finger:

An irritated sheath that surrounds the flexor tendon can pinch the flexor tendon when attempting to flex the finger, causing a locking sensation of the tendon. Nonsurgical treatment is typically recommended. However, it is possible to undergo surgery in severe cases.

Wrist (or Colles) Fracture:

A fracture of the larger of the two forearm bones—the radius—occurs when the area near the wrist breaks. When correction cannot be achieved with a cast, surgery may be required.

Wrist Arthritis:

The two main types of wrist arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. This condition involves swelling and limited strength and motion, making it difficult to perform many tasks. If medicine is ineffective, surgery may be required.

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment:

The ulnar nerve, one of three main nerves in the arm, may become compressed. It is usually called the funny bone; entrapment usually occurs behind the elbow. Anti-inflammatory medicine or steroid injections are recommended, but surgery is sometimes needed.

More about Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Surgery

Dr. Vagner would be happy to meet with you to discuss treatment of the upper extremities, including hand, wrist, and elbow surgery, at our Austin facilities. If you reside in Travis County or Central Texas and are in need of orthopedic care, please contact our practice today.