The Hand

Movement in the hand and fingers is controlled by a system of muscles and tendons located in the forearm, wrist and hand. Tendons connect muscles to bone. When a muscle contracts, or tightens, the muscles power the tendons to move our bones. The ability to bend our fingers to make a fist is controlled by the flexor tendon.

Among the most common injuries to the hand and wrist in children are broken bones, also known as fractures. Children are not just small adults. Their bones have a different consistency and quality, like soft, fresh wood, as compared to when we age, our bones become more dried-out and brittle. Because children are still growing, their injuries need different evaluation, and sometimes different treatment.

Frostbite is an injury caused by exposure to freezing temperatures. Before freezing, skin of the fingers and hands may become red, then pale and numb. This is due to the body’s attempt to keep the major organs warm by constricting the blood vessels in the limbs.

A ganglion cyst is a lump at the hand and wrist that occurs near joints or tendons. It may be described as a mass, swelling, or bump.

Hand, wrist and elbow injuries are common for golfers of all skill levels. The golf swing is a complex, coordinated series of motions. Golf injuries can result from poor technique or overuse.

Gout is a type of arthritis that results in sore joints. With gout, crystals form in the joint. This causes irritation that is sometimes also present in the tendons near the joint.

These common hand and finger exercises are typically recommended by a hand therapist or a hand surgeon. They may be helpful in recovering after surgery, to relieve pain or to regain mobility.

Hand cramps, sometimes referred to as writers’ cramps or musicians’ cramps, are types of nerve disorders. Unwanted movements (spasms) or muscle aches (cramps) of hand muscles may occur when writing or playing a musical instrument, although they may also occur during other specific, fastmoving hand tasks.

Hand infections are common. They can affect patients of all ages. There are multiple types and causes of infections. Therefore, the treatment of these infections varies. It is important to recognize that long-term complications from hand infections can occur.

Anesthesia is a way to control pain during a surgery or procedure using medication. The types of medications used for this purpose are called anesthetics. Anesthesia can help control breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate.