Deciding the Right Moment for Hand Surgery

Our hands are incredibly useful and versatile; we use them for practically everything – from cleaning and feeding ourselves to taking care of our families. Can you even imagine a day without using your hands?

Because we use our hands so much, they’re prone to wear and tear. Athletes, in particular, can suffer from hand injuries that might end their careers if not treated properly. Anyone with a job that requires intense hand use is at risk of developing conditions like:

– Carpal tunnel syndrome
– Tennis elbow
– Wrist pain
– Hand, wrist, and forearm fractures
– Trigger finger

Moreover, diseases like arthritis and congenital defects can also affect the hands.

While many people think surgery is the go-to solution for hand problems, it’s actually not the first option doctors consider. Just like in other areas of medicine, doctors prefer to start with less invasive treatments. Surgery is risky, expensive, and requires a longer recovery period, so it’s not the first line of treatment unless absolutely necessary.

So, when should you consider hand surgery? Generally, surgery is the last resort when all other treatments have failed or if the hand problem is seriously affecting your daily life. Here are some common conditions that may require surgical intervention:

**Ganglion Cysts**
These cysts usually grow on the back of the wrist due to irritation of the ligaments, tendon sheaths, or joint linings. They’re typically painless and benign, but if they interfere with hand function, they can be surgically removed. However, they often recur.

**Arthritis of the Hand**
Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive disease that can deform and make finger joints painful. While non-surgical treatments can help, sometimes surgery is needed to remove inflamed tissues and alleviate pain.

**Carpal Tunnel Syndrome**
This condition causes numbness and tingling in the hand, particularly at night, and sometimes the pain extends to the shoulders. Treatments range from wearing splints and braces to steroid injections. Surgery becomes an option if these treatments do not work.

These are just a few examples of hand conditions that can be treated with both surgical and non-surgical methods. If you think you might have a hand disorder that needs professional attention, it’s best to consult a hand surgeon right away.