Hand & Wrist Ligament Injuries

Hand & Wrist Ligament Injuries Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Hand and wrist ligament injuries can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we have the best hand and wrist surgeons in Dubai, who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of these injuries. Our expert team is equipped with advanced technology and techniques to provide comprehensive care, ensuring effective recovery and optimal hand and wrist function.

• Know About Hand & Wrist Ligament Injury
• Types of Hand & Wrist Ligament Injuries
• Symptoms & Causes
• Diagnosis & Treatment

Know About Hand & Wrist Ligament Injury

Ligaments are strong, flexible bands of tissue that connect bones and provide stability to joints. In the hand and wrist, ligaments play a crucial role in maintaining joint integrity and facilitating smooth movement. Ligament injuries in these areas often occur due to trauma, repetitive strain, or sudden impact. These injuries can range from minor sprains to complete tears, affecting the function and strength of the hand and wrist.

Types of Hand & Wrist Ligament Injuries

1. Scapholunate Ligament Tear: This injury involves the ligament connecting the scaphoid and lunate bones in the wrist. It can cause instability and pain.
2. Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Injury: The TFCC is a structure in the wrist that supports the ulnar side. Injuries to this complex can lead to pain and dysfunction.
3. Thumb UCL (Ulnar Collateral Ligament) Injury: Commonly known as “Skier’s Thumb,” this injury affects the ligament on the inner side of the thumb and often results from a fall or direct impact.
4. Collateral Ligament Injuries: These injuries affect the ligaments on the sides of the finger joints, usually due to trauma or overuse.
5. Lunate Dislocation: Although less common, dislocation of the lunate bone can occur, often requiring surgical intervention to restore function.

Symptoms

The symptoms of hand and wrist ligament injuries can vary based on the type and severity of the injury but generally include:

1. Pain: Persistent or sharp pain in the affected area, often worsening with movement or pressure.
2. Swelling: Noticeable swelling around the joint, which may also be warm to the touch.
3. Bruising: Discoloration around the injury site as a result of bleeding under the skin.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty or pain when trying to move the hand or wrist, which may limit daily activities.
5. Weakness: Reduced strength in the hand or wrist, making it challenging to grasp or lift objects.

Causes

Hand and wrist ligament injuries are often caused by:

1. Trauma: Direct blows, falls, or accidents that place excessive stress on the ligaments.
2. Repetitive Strain: Activities involving repetitive motions or overuse, such as sports or certain work tasks, can lead to ligament damage.
3. Overextension: Sudden or excessive stretching of the ligaments beyond their normal range, often due to accidents or improper movements.
4. Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like basketball, football, or skiing can result in ligament injuries due to falls or direct impacts.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our diagnostic process includes:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: We assess the patient’s symptoms, history of injury, and perform a physical examination to evaluate pain, swelling, and range of motion.
2. Imaging Studies:
   • X-rays: To identify bone fractures or dislocations that may accompany ligament injuries.
   • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, to assess the extent of damage.
   • Ultrasound: May be used to visualize soft tissue injuries and guide treatment decisions.
3. Functional Tests: Evaluating the impact of the injury on hand and wrist function through various tests and assessments.

Treatment

Treatment for hand and wrist ligament injuries aims to relieve pain, restore function, and promote healing. Treatment options include:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
   • Rest and Immobilization: Using splints or braces to immobilize the affected area and prevent further injury.
   • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to reduce swelling and numb pain, typically for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
   • Compression and Elevation: Using compression bandages and keeping the injured area elevated to manage swelling.
   • Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed drugs to control pain and inflammation.
2. Rehabilitation:
   • Physical Therapy: Customized exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion as the injury heals.
3. Surgical Treatments:
   • Ligament Repair or Reconstruction: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or reconstruct damaged ligaments and restore joint stability.