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Conditions Hands Treatments Wrists

A Top Michigan Hand Doctor’s Guide to Understanding Hand and Wrist Fractures

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Hand and Wrist Fractures

Hand and wrist fractures encompass a spectrum of injuries involving cracks or breaks in the bones of your wrist, hand, or fingers. These injuries can arise from various causes, with the most frequent occurrence being a distal radius fracture – typically the result of attempting to cushion a fall with an outstretched hand. I’m sure just the thought of that is making you cringe because we’ve all been there.

Other common fractures include those of the scaphoid bone, metacarpals, and phalanges (small finger bones). Let’s dive into more detail to better understand hand and wrist fractures and their symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Hand and/or Wrist Fractures

Partaking in activities like in-line skating or snowboarding can heighten your risk of these fractures, as can conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become brittle. Recognizing and addressing hand and wrist fractures promptly is vital. Failing to do so could result in misaligned healing, impacting everyday tasks like writing or buttoning a shirt. Swift intervention also minimizes pain and stiffness.

Hand and Wrist Fractures

Indications of a Hand or Wrist Fracture Can Include:

• Intense pain that may worsen with hand or wrist movement, gripping, or squeezing.
• Swelling.
• Tenderness.
• Bruising.
• Obvious deformities, such as a bent wrist.

A Hand/Wrist Fracture Diagnosis

To diagnose a hand or wrist fracture, a physical examination of the affected area is usually accompanied by X-rays. Additional imaging methods can provide more detailed insights, such as:

• CT scan: This technology combines X-rays from different angles to create cross-sectional images, uncovering fractures that may be missed by standard X-rays and identifying soft tissue and blood vessel injuries.

• MRI: This technique uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of bones and soft tissues. MRIs are highly sensitive and can detect even minor fractures and ligament injuries.

Treatment of a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Proper alignment of fractured bone ends is crucial. Your doctor may perform a reduction, repositioning bone fragments, either with local or general anesthesia. Moving uninjured fingers regularly during healing is important to prevent stiffness. Immobilization via splints or casts restricts movement for optimal healing. Keeping the hand elevated above the elbow reduces swelling and pain.

Medications for a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Pain relief can be attained with over-the-counter pain relievers. Narcotic medications are rarely necessary, and NSAIDs might help with pain but could hamper bone healing if used long-term. If there’s an open fracture (where skin near the wound site is broken), antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent bone infection.

Hand Therapy after a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Following cast or splint removal, hand therapy aids in restoring movement and minimizing stiffness. While rehabilitation can be lengthy, it is instrumental in achieving complete healing.

Surgical Options if You Have a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Monitoring progress via X-rays is critical, as bones can shift even after reduction and immobilization. Surgery might be required in cases of bone movement, and options include:

• Closed reduction and pinning: Temporary pins hold aligned fractures until healing, after which they’re removed.

• External fixation: A metal frame outside the body immobilizes fractures with pins passing through the skin and bone. The frame is removed once healing occurs.

• Open reduction and internal fixation: This involves implanting pins, plates, rods, or screws to hold bones in place. Bone grafts might also be employed.

These surgical measures may be necessary for various reasons, including joint involvement, open fractures, or loose bone fragments affecting ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels. If you’re in need of expert care for hand and wrist fractures, contact a MI hand doctor for specialized guidance and treatment. There are many reputable hand doctor options from the Ascension or Beaumont healthcare systems, or you can choose Top Doc Dr. Avery Arora of Arora Hand Surgery. You can schedule an appointment at one of Dr. Arora’s four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan today.

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Conditions Fingers Treatments

Identify Symptoms of Trigger Finger and Understand Your Medical Treatment Options

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Identify Symptoms of Trigger Finger and Understand Your Medical Treatment Options

Trigger finger, also known as stenosing tenosynovitis, is a common hand condition that can cause discomfort and limited mobility. It occurs when the tendons in your fingers become inflamed or swollen, making it difficult to straighten or bend the affected finger smoothly. Recognizing the symptoms of trigger finger and understanding the available medical treatment options is crucial for effective management. In this blog post, we will explore the symptoms of trigger finger and discuss various treatment options to help you make informed decisions regarding your hand health.

 

Understanding Trigger Finger Symptoms 

  • Finger Stiffness and Snapping Sensation

One of the primary symptoms of trigger finger is stiffness in the affected finger joint. You may notice resistance or a sensation of catching or snapping when trying to straighten or bend your finger. This is caused by the inflamed tendon passing through the narrowed tendon sheath.

  • Finger Locking in a Bent Position

Trigger finger can cause your finger to lock in a bent position, making it challenging to straighten. You may experience a momentary “catch” or “pop” when attempting to extend the finger fully.

  • Finger Pain and Tenderness

Pain and tenderness are common symptoms associated with trigger finger. The affected area may feel sore, particularly around the base of the affected finger.

  • Swelling and Nodule Formation

In some cases, trigger finger may cause swelling and the formation of a small, tender nodule near the base of the affected finger. This nodule can be felt as a palpable lump.

 

Exploring Medical Treatment Options for Trigger Finger 

 

Non-Surgical Approaches for Trigger Finger
  • Rest and Activity Modification: Giving your finger rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
  • Splinting: Wearing a splint to immobilize the affected finger can help alleviate symptoms by reducing movement and providing support.
  • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
  • Hand Exercises: Performing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises prescribed by a healthcare professional can improve finger mobility and reduce symptoms.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Your trigger finger hand doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection. This injection delivers a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected area, reducing swelling and relieving symptoms. Multiple injections may be required, depending on the severity of your condition.

 

Surgical Intervention for Trigger Finger  

If conservative measures and injections fail to provide long-term relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. The surgical procedure, known as a trigger finger release surgery, involves widening the constricted tendon sheath, allowing the tendon to glide freely. This can usually be performed on an outpatient basis, with a relatively quick recovery time.

Recognizing the symptoms of trigger finger and understanding the medical treatment options for trigger finger are essential for effectively managing this common hand condition. If you experience finger stiffness, a snapping sensation, finger locking, pain, tenderness, or swelling, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and diagnosis.

Non-surgical approaches such as rest, splinting, medication, and exercises are often effective in relieving symptoms. However, if conservative treatments prove inadequate, corticosteroid injections or trigger finger release surgery may be recommended to restore finger mobility and alleviate discomfort.

Remember, consulting with a healthcare professional such as Dr. Avery Arora, a top Michigan hand specialist, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations. They can guide you through the process, help educate you on your trigger finger treatment options, and provide appropriate care to ensure the best possible outcome for your hand health.

If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of trigger finger, it may be time to get in touch with top MI hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. You can schedule an appointment at one of his four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan.

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Conditions Treatments Wrists

Understanding the Difference between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

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In today’s fast-paced world, where technology dominates our daily lives, repetitive movements and extended periods of computer usage have become the norm. Unfortunately, these habits can lead to various health issues, including nerve compression disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). While both conditions affect the upper extremities and cause discomfort, it is crucial to understand their unique characteristics and how they differ. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome to help you better understand and manage these conditions.

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome primarily affects the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed or irritated. This can result from repetitive hand movements, such as typing or using a computer mouse, or conditions like arthritis or wrist injuries.

Common Symptoms of CTS 
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
  • Pain or discomfort that radiates from the wrist up the arm.
  • Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks.
  • Symptoms tend to worsen at night or during activities that involve bending the wrist.

the Difference between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (CuTS) 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome affects the ulnar nerve, which passes through a narrow tunnel on the inside of the elbow called the cubital tunnel. This nerve is responsible for supplying sensation and controlling some of the muscles in the hand and forearm. CuTS occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, often due to prolonged or repetitive elbow bending or leaning on the elbow for extended periods.

Common Symptoms of CuTS 
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in the ring and little fingers.
  • Weakness in the hand, particularly in the grip or pinch.
  • Pain or discomfort along the inside of the elbow or forearm.
  • Symptoms may worsen with elbow flexion or activities that involve bending the elbow.
Distinguishing Factors 

While both CTS and CuTS involve nerve compression, they differ in terms of the affected nerves and the locations of discomfort:

  • Affected Nerves: CTS involves compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, while CuTS affects the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel inside the elbow.
  • Distribution of Symptoms: CTS primarily affects the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. In contrast, CuTS commonly causes symptoms in the ring and little fingers.
  • Triggering Factors: CTS is often associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, whereas CuTS is commonly caused by prolonged elbow flexion or pressure on the elbow.
  • Anatomical Differences: The carpal tunnel is located at the base of the palm, while the cubital tunnel is found on the inside of the elbow.

 

Treatment and Management for CTS and CuTS 

For both conditions, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial. Non-surgical approaches for CTS and CuTS include:

  • Resting the affected area and avoiding repetitive movements that exacerbate the symptoms.
  • Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Wearing splints or braces to support the affected area and relieve pressure.
  • Physical therapy exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and posture.
  • In severe cases or when conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.

Understanding the differences between carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management. While both conditions involve nerve compression and share some similarities in symptoms, they affect different nerves and have distinct locations of discomfort.

CTS primarily affects the median nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. On the other hand, CuTS affects the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel of the elbow, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ring and little fingers.

Identifying the triggering factors is crucial as well. CTS is commonly associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, while CuTS is often caused by prolonged elbow flexion or pressure on the elbow.

Both conditions can often be managed conservatively through rest, splinting, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. However, in severe cases or when conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. 

If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome, it may be time to get in touch with top MI hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. You can schedule an appointment at one of his four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan.

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Conditions Fingers

What Is Trigger Finger and How Is It Treated?

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what is trigger finger

If you’ve seen people with what looks like permanently bent fingers, such as the ones in this picture, they may have a condition called “trigger finger.” The name comes from the resemblance of the index finger holding a gun. In this blog, we’ll talk about what is trigger finger and how it can be treated.

Trigger finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis) occurs when the fingers are either locked in place or when they “catch” in place as you bend them. Trigger finger is due to inflammation of the tendons on the finger and/or thumb.

As you may know, the job of the tendons is to connect the muscles and bones. Tendons allow for movement of the arms, hands, and fingers. Normally, they work smoothly due to their natural lubrication; however, if the tendon is swollen, it can cause the finger to catch and stick when it is bent.

 

Why Does Trigger Finger Occur?

A number of different variables can increase the risk of developing trigger finger including having rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and/or gout. Those who hold an object in the same position for a long period can also aggravate the tendons and increase their likelihood for developing this condition over time. Repetitive and forceful movements, such as playing electric guitar, can cause the condition to occur as well.

Trigger finger affects people in many industries and walks of life. Those who perform repetitive tasks with their fingers and thumbs are at the greatest risk. Women seem to suffer from the problem more than men, and it tends to happen most often in those who are between 40 and 60.

why does trigger finger occur?

Understanding the Trigger Finger Symptoms

Those who may suffer from trigger finger will likely notice that the base of their finger (or thumb) is sore. Of course, this symptom alone does not mean that you are going to have the condition and that’s why it’s so important to receive a proper diagnosis from a doctor.

Here’s a list of trigger finger symptoms to look for:

  • Finger stiffness, especially when first waking up in the morning
  • Pain when bending or straightening the finger(s)
  • Hearing a clicking or popping sound from the affected fingers
  • Painful bumps at the base of your finger
  • Fingers stuck in a bent position

 

Treatment for Trigger Finger

The first course of treatment recommended by most doctors is to rest the affected fingers, as this can help to relieve the inflammation on the tendon.  In some cases, a hand specialist like Dr. Arora, might want to splint the finger, as this will keep you from inadvertently moving the joint. Many times, with rest, this can remove the problem. If the problem persists, though, the doctor might prescribe medicine to help keep the inflammation down or a steroid injection. In some severe cases, the doctor may recommend hand surgery.

The recovery time for trigger finger will vary based on the type of treatment and the severity of the case. Those who take anti-inflammatory drugs and rest the finger can resolve the issue in a few weeks. Splinting could take several weeks as well. Those who have surgery will likely have a longer recovery period, as they have to consider the recovery time of the incision. Even though an incision for this type of surgery is typically small, it can still be tender for some time after the surgery.

If you believe you are suffering from trigger finger, and you have found that resting doesn’t help, it may be time to get in touch with top MI hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. You can schedule an appointment at one of his four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan.

 

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Conditions Treatments

How to Treat Tendinitis

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how to treat tendonitis

The tendons are the connective tissue that joins muscles in the body to bones. They help to facilitate movement, and many people never give their tendons a second thought. However, it is possible for the tendons to become inflamed, which is known as tendinitis. This condition causes pain, and it can make it hard to move the joint, which severely limits a person’s ability to move freely the way they did before. While all joints could suffer from the condition, some are more prone to tendinitis than others are, namely the elbow and the wrist. Here’s some more information on how to treat tendinitis.

 

Common Causes of Tendinitis

Many times, tendinitis is the result of repetitive actions. This causes the tendons to be used too much, and some people develop tendinitis as a result. It can occur because of actions from sports, as well as different types of actions performed at work or at home. It is also possible to suffer from tendinitis due to an injury, as well as aging. As people get older, their body begins to break down, and the tendons can be some of the first parts to have trouble. Those who have certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, can also be afflicted with tendinitis.

 

What Are the Symptoms?

When someone has tendinitis, they generally complain of an aching feeling around the joint. The pain will increase when they try to move the joint, and it can even cause pain if someone bumps or touches the joint. In some cases, particularly after trying to use the afflicted joint, people will also notice some swelling.

how to treat tendonitis

 

Getting a Diagnosis

When some people feel the onset of tendinitis, they do not realize what it is. They may believe that they are just tired and sore from doing too much, and hope that rest will alleviate the problem. While rest may be able to help, it is always a good idea to speak with a doctor, such as Michigan-based hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. A specialized doctor can look at your medical history and examine the joint to determine the problem. Part of the exam will be to test your range of motion. They will want to know what types of activities you do as well, as this can give them a clue as to the nature of the injury. They may also order imaging tests.

 

Treatment Options

In the cases where tendinitis is relatively mild, there are some simple treatments your doctor can try. They will want you to rest, and they may advise you to use cold or heat on the affected area. They may also recommend taking pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition, they could provide you with exercises you can do to strengthen the area.

In some cases, the doctor may also recommend surgery. They are able to remove the inflamed tissue, which can help to reduce the amount of pain the patient feels, and this can provide them with more mobility and range of motion. Each patient is different, and you will want to talk with your doctor about the best options to try when treating your tendinitis.

Here at Arora Hand Surgery, we care about your health. If you are feeling hand, wrist, or elbow discomfort, visit Dr. Avery Arora at one of his southeast Michigan offices located in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell.

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Conditions Hands Wrists

Catch the Early Signs of Arthritis in Your Wrists and Hands

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early signs of arthritis

Very little in the world can make you feel older or more helpless than developing arthritis in your hands, body parts we often times take for granted. Fortunately, while there is no known cure for either rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, if you catch the early signs of arthritis in your wrists and hands, treatment is possible. Hand Doctor Avery Arora can recommend ways to keep your hands and wrists flexible and strong for years to come.

First, let’s discuss the two types of arthritis and how they differ from one another. Then, we’ll get into the signs and symptoms that indicate the following:

  • if you’re developing arthritis
  • when to see a hand doctor
  • what kinds of treatment are available to you

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis v. Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that adversely affects the cells in your body that keep your joints coated and lubricated, whereas osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” arthritis. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it seems to be linked to certain genetic components in association with environmental factors, including bacterial or viral infections.

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is caused by aging joints, obesity, and/or trauma to a joint (or joints). Osteoarthritis can affect just one joint or many. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect joints symmetrically. So, if you have fairly uniform symptoms in both of your hands and/or wrists, it is more likely that you have rheumatoid arthritis than osteoarthritis. To be absolutely sure, though, it’s best to talk with a your hand doctor for a proper diagnosis.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

If you exhibit any or all of the following symptoms, it is likely that you have arthritis in your hands and/or wrists, and it’s time to call the hand doctor:

  • Stiffness, pain, and/or swelling in the fingers, hands, and/or wrists
  • Warm hand or wrist joints, especially if they’re tender to the touch
  • Finger joint deformities
  • Numbness and/or tingling in hands and fingers
  • Pain, stiffness, and/or swelling that lasts more than an hour

Arthritis in the hands can be a serious problem, especially if you use your hands for your work. Whether you work in an office or a garage, pain and stiffness in your hands and wrists can mean major issues for your job. So, if you exhibit any of these symptoms, call a hand specialist immediately. This disorder will not just go away if left untreated.

 

Arthritis Treatment

Depending on how severe your arthritis is, your doctor may prescribe one of many treatment options. For mild arthritic pain, nSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin) may be effective enough to relieve pain and swelling. Some patients require a special wrist brace to stabilize the joints and keep them in the proper position so as not to cause any more damage.

Dr. Arora, Michigan’s top hand surgeon, may also recommend a change of diet and stress management, physical therapy, and/or rest and exercise. In some cases, surgery is necessary, but this can often be avoided if the disorder is caught and treated early. If you suspect that you’re suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, make an appointment with your hand doctor today.

Here at Arora Hand Surgery, we care about your health. If you are feeling hand or wrist discomfort and worry that it may be the first signs of arthritis, visit Dr. Avery Arora at one of his southeast Michigan offices located in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell.

 

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Conditions

3 Home Remedies to Ease Discomfort from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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home remedies to ease carpal tunnel syndrome discomfort

Are you feeling as if there is something “off” with your wrists? It’s not necessarily sharp pain yet, but there’s discomfort and perhaps a slight weakness or numbness when your wrists are in use? While it’s impossible to diagnose you in this blog, and we encourage you to see a hand specialist as soon as this persists over several weeks, there may be some home remedies to ease your pain. Here are 3 home remedies to ease discomfort from carpal tunnel syndrome.

 

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), also called median nerve compression, can occur when a nerve in your wrist is pinched, and the condition persists when the activity that is causing that pinched nerve is repeated daily. Here at Arora Hand Surgery, a hand, wrist, and elbow medical practice in southeast Michigan, we meet patients who have the onslaught of CTS due to activities such as gardening, bartending, and of course, excessive computer usage.

 

Some patients describe the beginning stages of carpal tunnel syndrome as feeling like tingling “pins and needles” are present in the fingers (usually the thumb and index fingers, the pinky is rarely affected), hands, wrists, and/or forearms. The tricky thing about CTS, though, is that it is frequently misdiagnosed because it shares symptoms with other conditions such as arthritis, wrist tendonitis, and repetitive strain injury (RSI).

 

If you do in fact have a mild case of carpal tunnel syndrome and want to try some home remedies before going to the doctor, some of your discomfort can be eased with lifestyle changes.

 

Here are a few home remedies that may ease carpal tunnel syndrome discomfort:

  1. Use wrist splints to help keep your hands aligned. This means at nighttime too, as we also tend to flex and overextend wrists during slumber. A wrist splint provides support to the wrist and/or thumb while you carry out your usual day-to-day activities. They make daily task easier by increasing grip strength and reducing overall pain.

 

  1. Alternating between applying ice and warm water dipping. Cold and heat remedies have been known to ease CTS discomfort. We recommend soaking your hands/wrists in an ice bath for 10 to 15 minutes up to twice daily. Alternately, for warm water treatment, you can dip your hands in water between 92 degrees and 100 degrees Fahrenheit up to four times daily. Be sure to break between cold and heat remedies for at least an hour.

 

  1. Make changes to your work style. As mentioned before, repetitive hand movements can worsen the pain. Think about the adjustments you can make in your day-to-day activities that would help ease discomfort. Some examples include adjusting your chair height so that there’s less strain on your wrists during typing, avoiding squeezing pliers aggressively, keeping wrist twists to a minimum, etc.

 

It’s important to point out that these 3 home remedies may ease discomfort from carpal tunnel syndrome but not cure the condition completely. If pain persists, the diagnosis and proper treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome is imperative for your quality of life and health. If you believe you may have carpal tunnel syndrome and you live in southeast Michigan, visit Dr. Avery Arora at one of his offices located in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell. He is a hand surgeon that can and will help you.

 

 

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Conditions General Hands

What is the Difference Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis?

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There are many differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms are similar, but the conditions are actually very different. This is a closeup image of a doctor examining a patient's hand arthritis.

The differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are significant, but the ability to identify one over the other can be somewhat elusive to the general public. A proper diagnosis is crucial for effective arthritis treatment.

The symptoms of these two common forms of arthritis may be similar, but the conditions are actually very different.

The word “arthritis” itself isn’t as much of a diagnosis as a description of more than 100 different types of ailments that involve joint pain or inflammation. Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two of the most common forms. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 32.5 million U.S. adults suffer from osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 1.3 million adults in the U.S.

To help you communicate your concerns to Dr. Arora, we offer the following comparison as a guide.

What is Osteoarthritis?

In very general terms, osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in a joint wears out. It usually begins in one joint and may never affect other joints.

The pain can be mild, moderate, or severe. Moderate or severe osteoarthritis pain can make it difficult for patients to complete everyday activities, such as buttoning a shirt or tying their shoes.

It is most common among women and occurs more frequently as people get older. Other risk factors for osteoarthritis include obesity, genetics, and joint injury or overuse.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. When this occurs, the immune system essentially “malfunctions” and attacks the synovial membrane that encases and protects the joints. It frequently affect several joints at the same time.

Beyond the pain, inflammation, and swelling common in other forms of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may include fever, anemia, fatigue, and loss of appetite. Rheumatoid arthritis may also show signs in the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, salivary glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow, and blood vessels. It tends to be symmetrical, so symptoms may occur on both sides of the body simultaneously.

This form of arthritis is a chronic condition. There is no cure, and it is likely to progress over time. However, treatment options can reduce pain, make the symptoms manageable, and prevent significant joint damage.

Women are more likely to develop RA than men are. RA can begin at any age but most commonly starts in middle age. Other risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include family history, smoking, and excess weight.

4 Key Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

1. Number of Joints Affected

Osteoarthritis may only affect one joint. Rheumatoid arthritis may affect several at the same time.

2. Symmetry

Rheumatoid arthritis tends to be symmetrical, meaning it affects both elbows, for instance. Osteoarthritis is more centralized, so it might or might not affect both sides of the body.

However, both sides of the body may become affected due to the exertion of too much pressure on one side. For example, if you experience osteoarthritis pain in your left wrist, you may use your right wrist more often, eventually causing the right wrist to act up as well.

3. Duration of Symptoms

The duration and extent of the pain is different.

With RA, joint pain and swelling can come and go, but the disease never really goes away. The goal of rheumatoid arthritis treatment is to make you feel better and get your symptoms under control, known as “remission.”

Osteoarthritis is also permanent and the pain and swelling are similar, but the condition can improve over time.

4. Additional Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis may have symptoms such as fever, fatigue, anemia, and loss of appetite. Osteoarthritis is usually only pain, swelling, and some loss of flexibility in the particular joint that is affected at the time.

If you are experiencing arthritis pain in your hands, wrists, or elbows, it’s important to determine the type of arthritis in order to create the best treatment and prevention plan for you. For an evaluation, diagnosis, and arthritis treatment, make an appointment to see Dr. Arora in Warren, West Bloomfield, Howell, or Macomb Township.

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Conditions Hands

Looking for a West Bloomfield Hand Specialist? Why Experience Makes the Difference

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A patient points out the source of pain to a hand doctor. ... Are you looking for a hand specialist in West Bloomfield, Michigan? Experience makes the difference!

Are you betting that all hand specialists in the West Bloomfield, Michigan area are the same? We’ll take that bet!

Truly, we can see why you might think that. Typically, people who experience a hand injury go to the first local hand specialist they can find. If you need care for an injury, that makes sense. On the other hand, if you’re looking for effective recovery and long-term treatment, you need to find a local hand doctor who has many years of experience in treating traumatic injuries as well as various other hand conditions.

Why is experience so important when you’re looking for a hand specialist? Let us point out a handful of reasons experience makes the difference.

1. The doctor may have a greater wealth of knowledge regarding various hand conditions.

As you are looking for a hand doctor, it’s important to find one who can diagnose and treat a wide variety of hand conditions. In fact, that’s why it’s ideal to go to a specialist specifically rather than a general doctor. The hand is an intricate, complex system, and any number of issues can cause similar symptoms. An experienced doctor will be more skilled at identifying the exact source of the pain and the condition that’s causing it.

2. The recovery process and results are more optimal.

Our hand surgery team learns something new every day, and the longer we work, the more we learn. It’s as simple as that. We’ve come across stumbling blocks, unexpected excellent outcomes, tremendous successes, and even a few failures, and we’ve learned from them all. Experience leads to knowledge about what to do, what not to do, and how to do it. And nothing can replace “time” in order to gain that expertise.

3. An experienced hand specialist in West Bloomfield may provide more accurate diagnoses.

If a hand doctor has earned his or her title, he or she is likely very familiar with all the various hand conditions a person may experience. There are many great hand specialists in Michigan, it’s true. However, reading about it is much different than seeing it in person or hearing what the patient has to say.

An experienced hand specialist would dig deeper and look beyond the obvious to pinpoint conditions that may mask themselves as something else.

4. The fluctuating Michigan weather may have an effect.

Cold weather can cause conditions such as hand arthritis and Raynaud’s disease to flare up. A local hand specialist who has years of experience in treating patients in Michigan specifically may have a few more helpful tips that can relieve weather-related flareups.

It’s also not all about the winters. Dramatic changes in weather conditions can lead to hand pain, numbness, and tingling as well. If you’re looking for a hand specialist, it’s important to find one who understands what all four seasons in Michigan can do to your body — and maybe even your mind. It all goes together, after all.

5. You gain peace of mind with proper treatment.

When you choose the best hand specialist in the West Bloomfield area, you can have greater confidence in the diagnosis, treatments, and guidance. Skilled hand doctors have most likely successfully treated countless of patients who have your condition, so they are more familiar with its intricacies.

You can also feel free to ask as many questions as necessary and know that you’re getting the thorough answers you deserve.

If the condition is treated properly the first time, you are less likely to have to return to get it treated again, with the exception of basic follow-up appointments. A condition that is improperly diagnosed or treated will likely not go away on its own. You might get temporary relief, but eventually you will have to return for more permanent solutions.

As you are looking for a West Bloomfield hand specialist, you will find that Dr. Arora has the depth of knowledge, expertise, and experience you need for more effective recovery. Contact us to make an appointment to see Dr. Arora at his office on Orchard Lake Road.

 

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Dr. Aroras office from my first call to schedule my appointment was friendly. Walking in the first day, I felt like I was in a nice atmosphere. Dr. Arora was EXCELLENT in taking great care of my hand injury. He was gentle and very understanding to the concerns I had about my hand. His expertise was admirable and I would recommend anyone with an injury to their hand to his office to be under his care. Because of him, I have healed faster than expected and will make an 100% recovery! Thank you Dr.

Jackie S.

I first thought I was going to have to have painful injections or surgery, but Dr. Arora suggested physical therapy may do the trick. I was doubtful, but I agreed to do it. Now, my pain is gone, and with the help of an ergonomic keyboard at work to keep my hands in the correct position, I am virtually pain free. The therapy strengthened my wrists and shoulders, and built more flexibility into my wrists.

Jerry T.

My experience with this doctor was positive from the outset. Dr. Arora was kind and spent a great deal of time with me. Staff was friendly. The office was nice and bright.

Ariel G.

Very friendly and helpful Great staff!!! Doctor Arora was very professional and did great work. I was very happy with everything!

L B.