Hand tendonitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon on the hands or wrist. This condition occurs from an injury or, more commonly, repetitive motions that put stress on the tendon.
The treatment plan for hand tendonitis differs from person to person. Treatment methods can range from home remedies and non-surgical options to surgery.
Home Remedies
Rest and Immobilization
The very first piece of advice you will get is to rest your hand. You can do this by ceasing activities that cause symptoms and worsen and aggravate your condition. Your doctor may tell you to take a break from a sport that requires the use of the tendon in question or avoid typing on the computer for long periods of time.
Wrist immobilization can prevent your tendon from becoming more inflamed by restricting movement. You can also use a splint on the affected area for the same purpose. For a lot of cases of hand tendonitis, rest and immobilization prove to be effective solutions.
Ice Therapy
Icing your wrist can decrease inflammation and help relieve pain symptoms. Make sure to consult your doctor on how frequently you should apply ice every day.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Hand Tendonitis
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help control pain. They also decrease swelling and inflammation in the affected soft tissues. There are over-the-counter medications you can use for quick, temporary relief, but you can also get prescription medication after consulting with a doctor. Long term intake of medications sometimes leads to complications in the kidneys, heart, and stomach. Therefore, it’s best to limit consumption and incorporate other treatment methods for better, safer results.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
To perform platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, your provider will draw a sample of your blood and spin it in a centrifuge to extract the concentrated PRP. The PRP is then administered to the problem area through an injection. This therapy accelerates healing and growth of new tissue.
Cortisone Injection
Cortisone refers to a powerful anti-inflammatory treatment given as an injection directly in the problem area. It can give you pain relief for a longer time than traditional anti-inflammatory medications taken orally. Although safe and effective, this treatment can weaken the tendon if you get it too often.
Hand Therapy
Hand therapy refers to physical therapy applied to the hand and wrist. It focuses on strengthening the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the hand and wrist, so you function better and experience less symptoms of pain.
Hand therapists utilize various modalities—from strengthening and stretching to ultrasound and electrical stimulation. They also create custom support and splints as a way to control the movements of joints.
Hand Tendonitis Surgery
If all of the non-operative treatments mentioned above do not work for you, it may be time for you to undergo hand tendonitis surgery. This procedure focuses on releasing tight tendon sheath areas. If needed, it also removes inflamed tissues to create more room for the tendon to move freely.
Hand Tendonitis Treatment in Maryland
When it comes to addressing hand tendonitis with state-of-the-art and effective solutions, Greater Chesapeake Hand To Shoulder is at your service. You can rely on our expert hand surgeons to help you get relief quickly and effectively. Our team of fellowship-trained and board-certified plastic and orthopedic surgeons have extensive experience treating injuries and conditions involving the hand, elbow, wrist, and shoulders. Visit us today and find out how we can help you.
To book an appointment, you may call (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment online.
