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Why Seeing a Hand Surgeon Doesn’t Always Mean Surgery

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carpal tunnel syndrome and a hand therapist

For many patients, the phrase “hand surgeon” immediately brings one thought to mind: surgery. As a result, some people delay care out of fear, while others are surprised to learn that hand surgeons treat far more than just surgical cases.

The truth is, seeing a hand surgeon does not automatically mean you need surgery. In fact, a large portion of hand, wrist, elbow, and finger conditions can be treated successfully with non-surgical care, especially when addressed early.

At Arora Hand Surgery, our primary goal is accurate diagnosis, patient education, and conservative treatment whenever appropriate. Surgery is considered only when other options have been exhausted or when it is clearly the best solution.

 

The Role of a Hand Surgeon Goes Beyond the Operating Room 

A hand surgeon is a specialist trained to evaluate complex conditions affecting the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves of the upper extremity. This training allows us to determine what does not require surgery just as much as what does.

In many cases, patients are referred after an injury, ongoing pain, numbness, or loss of function — not because surgery is inevitable, but because a specialist is best equipped to guide next steps.

 

Common Non-Surgical Conditions We Treat 

Many of the most frequent hand and upper-extremity conditions respond well to conservative treatment, including:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Trigger finger
  • De Quervain’s tendonitis
  • Tendonitis and overuse injuries
  • Sprains and strains
  • Work-related hand and wrist injuries
  • Nerve irritation or compression
  • Arthritis management of the hand, wrist, or thumb
  • Swelling, stiffness, or unexplained hand pain

These conditions often benefit from early intervention, which can prevent progression and reduce the likelihood of surgery later on.

 

Non-Surgical Treatment Options a Hand Specialist May Recommend

When surgery is not indicated, a hand surgeon can offer a variety of evidence-based, non-operative treatments, such as:

  • Hand therapy or occupational therapy
  • Splinting or bracing
  • Activity modification and ergonomic guidance
  • Anti-inflammatory treatment
  • Targeted corticosteroid injections
  • Close monitoring and follow-up care

Because every patient and condition is different, treatment plans are individualized and adjusted based on response and recovery.

 

Why Early Hand Evaluation Matters 

One of the most important reasons to see a hand surgeon early is clarity. Persistent pain, numbness, weakness, or stiffness should not be ignored or self-diagnosed. Early evaluation allows for:

  • Proper diagnosis
  • Timely conservative treatment
  • Reduced risk of long-term damage
  • Better outcomes — often without surgery

In many cases, patients are relieved to learn that their condition can be managed non-surgically with the right guidance.

 

When Is Surgery Considered?

While conservative care is always explored first, surgery may be recommended if:

  • Symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment
  • Nerve compression is severe or progressive
  • Structural damage requires repair
  • Function is significantly impaired
  • When surgery is necessary, the goal is always to restore function, relieve pain, and help patients return safely to daily activities.

 

The Takeaway

Seeing a hand surgeon does not mean surgery is inevitable. In fact, it often means the opposite: a careful evaluation to determine the most appropriate, least invasive treatment possible.

Whether you are a patient seeking answers or a provider considering a referral, understanding the full scope of non-surgical hand care can make a meaningful difference in outcomes.

 

Schedule an Evaluation with Dr. Avery Arora, Your Michigan Hand Surgeon

If you’re experiencing hand, wrist, elbow, or finger pain — or if you’re unsure whether surgery is needed — an evaluation with a hand specialist can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Contact Arora Hand Surgery today to schedule an appointment and learn more about your non-surgical treatment options.

 

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General

Holiday Foods That Reduce Inflammation: Simple Ways to Support Hand & Wrist Comfort This Season

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Foods That Reduce Inflammation

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and—often—an abundance of rich foods. While enjoying festive meals is part of what makes this time of year special, many traditional food dishes can increase inflammation throughout the body. For individuals dealing with hand pain, wrist discomfort, arthritis, or tendon issues, those extra inflammatory triggers may make symptoms more noticeable.

The good news: Not all holiday foods work against you. In fact, some seasonal ingredients can help reduce inflammation and support joint and nerve health. Incorporating these nutrient-packed foods into your holiday meals can make a meaningful difference in hand and wrist comfort.

Here are some simple, delicious options to keep inflammation under control while still enjoying everything the season has to offer.

  1. Salmon: A Holiday Power Protein 

Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are widely known for their ability to reduce inflammation in joints and soft tissues. Omega-3s can help ease discomfort associated with:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tendonitis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • General hand and wrist stiffness

Adding salmon to your holiday menu—whether baked, grilled, or added to appetizers—is an easy way to support overall joint health. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a smart centerpiece for a lighter, feel-good holiday dinner.

 

  1. Walnuts: A Simple Snack With Big Benefits 

Walnuts are another excellent source of omega-3s and are known for promoting brain, nerve, and joint health. They also contain antioxidants that help reduce swelling around nerves, such as the median nerve in the wrist or the ulnar nerve at the elbow.

This makes walnuts especially helpful for individuals experiencing:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Cubital tunnel syndrome
  • Trigger finger irritation

Sprinkle walnuts on salads, add them to baked goods, or keep a handful nearby for a healthy snack between holiday celebrations.

  

  1. Leafy Greens: The Ultimate Anti-Inflammatory Side Dish 

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that fight inflammation naturally. They’re also high in magnesium, which plays a role in muscle and nerve health.

These nutrients can help manage symptoms linked to:

  • Arthritis in the fingers or thumbs
  • Wrist tendonitis
  • Hand stiffness
  • General joint discomfort

A simple salad, a warm sautéed side dish, or blended greens in a smoothie can support joint comfort while balancing out heavier holiday foods.

  

  1. Ginger Tea: A Warm, Soothing Seasonal Drink 

Ginger has long been used as a natural anti-inflammatory. Ginger tea is especially beneficial in the winter, when cold weather can make joint stiffness more noticeable—particularly in the hands and wrists.

Ginger can help reduce:

  • Swelling
  • Muscle tension
  • Nerve irritation
  • Cold-related stiffness

A warm cup of ginger tea after a long day of decorating, shopping, cooking, or typing can help soothe your hands and support relaxation.

  

Small Holiday Food Choices Make a Big Difference with Inflammation 

The holidays can be a challenging time for people who live with hand or wrist pain, especially in Michigan’s cold winter climate. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your meals is a simple, enjoyable way to help support joint health and reduce discomfort.

While these foods won’t cure underlying conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, arthritis, or tendon injuries, they can make symptoms more manageable.

  

If Pain Interferes with Daily Life, We Can Help 

If hand or wrist pain is affecting your ability to enjoy the season, it may be time for a professional evaluation. At Arora Hand Surgery, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment for a full range of conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and elbows — with locations throughout Metro Detroit.

Call us to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward more comfortable, pain-free movement this holiday season.

 

Categories
General Hands

Hand Pain Awareness: When Everyday Pain Signals Something More Serious

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Hand Pain Awareness: When Everyday Pain Signals Something More Serious

September is Pain Awareness Month, a reminder that pain is not something we should ignore or simply “learn to live with.” For many people, hand and wrist pain becomes part of daily life, but these symptoms are often a sign that something deeper is going on. Understanding when your pain may need medical attention is an important step in preventing long-term issues.

At Arora Hand Surgery, Dr. Avery Arora and our team specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the hand, wrist, fingers, and elbow. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most common causes of hand pain — and when to seek care.

 

Hand Cramps: Harmless or a Red Flag? 

Hand cramps are one of the top symptoms patients search for online, and while they are sometimes linked to temporary issues like dehydration or overuse, they can also point to underlying medical conditions. Nerve compression (like carpal tunnel syndrome), arthritis, or even past injuries can all contribute to painful cramping in the hands and fingers.

If hand cramps are frequent, severe, or paired with numbness and tingling, it’s best to schedule an evaluation. Early care can prevent a small problem from becoming something more disruptive.

 

Painful Injuries: Broken Knuckles and Nerve Damage 

It’s common for patients to ask, “Can a broken knuckle heal on its own?” While minor fractures sometimes heal without surgical treatment, leaving a broken bone untreated can lead to deformity, stiffness, or long-term pain. Proper evaluation with imaging ensures the bone heals correctly and function is preserved.

Similarly, a cut finger with nerve damage may seem like a small injury at first, but untreated nerve injuries can result in permanent loss of sensation or function. Signs of nerve damage include persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the finger. Prompt medical attention improves the chances of successful recovery.

 

Chronic Conditions Behind Hand Pain 

Not all hand pain is linked to accidents or overuse. Some conditions develop gradually, affecting mobility and comfort over time:

  • Trigger Finger: Causes painful catching or locking of a finger when bent.
  • De Quervain’s Tendonitis: Leads to pain on the thumb side of the wrist, often made worse by lifting or gripping.
  • Dupuytren’s Disease: A slow-developing condition that causes the fingers to bend toward the palm.
  • Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear arthritis that causes stiffness, swelling, and aching in the joints of the hands and wrists.

Each of these conditions can impact your ability to perform daily tasks, but effective treatments — both non-surgical and surgical — are available.

 

 

Why Early Evaluation Matters 

One of the most important lessons of Pain Awareness Month is that pain is not just an inconvenience; it is the body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Whether it’s hand cramps, a broken knuckle, or ongoing wrist pain, early diagnosis allows for more treatment options and better outcomes.

At Arora Hand Surgery, Dr. Arora is committed to conservative care whenever possible — meaning surgery is considered only after other options are explored. Many patients find relief through splinting, therapy, medication, or injections. When surgery is necessary, advanced techniques are available to restore function and reduce pain.

 

 

Take the First Step Toward Relief 

Living with pain doesn’t have to be your “new normal.” If you are experiencing hand cramps, nerve-related symptoms, or pain from an injury or chronic condition, don’t wait until it worsens.

Call Arora Hand Surgery today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward long-term relief. With convenient locations across Southeast Michigan, compassionate care is always within reach.

Categories
Conditions General Wrists

Is My Wrist Pain Carpal Tunnel or Something Else? Understanding Common Causes of Wrist and Hand Pain

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Is My Wrist Pain Carpal Tunnel or Something Else?

If you’re waking up with tingling fingers, aching wrists, or shooting pains that make everyday tasks feel impossible, you’re not alone. Wrist and hand pain are some of the most common reasons people visit a hand surgeon — but it isn’t always carpal tunnel syndrome. Understanding what’s behind your pain is the first step toward lasting relief.

At Arora Hand Surgery, Dr. Avery Arora and our caring team in Southeast Michigan help patients pinpoint the true cause of their discomfort so they can get back to doing what they love, pain-free.

 

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that develops when the median nerve — which runs from your forearm into your palm — becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. This nerve passes through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, which can become narrowed by swelling, repetitive use, or certain medical conditions.

 

Classic signs of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
  • Pain that wakes you up at night
  • Weak grip strength
  • Difficulty holding objects or performing fine motor tasks

 

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. CTS is especially common in people whose work involves repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as typing, assembly line work, or certain sports.

is my wrist pain carpal tunnel or something else?

But Wrist Pain Isn’t Always Carpal Tunnel… 

While carpal tunnel is a well-known culprit, it’s not the only condition that can cause wrist and hand pain. Here are a few other common possibilities:

 

Wrist Tendonitis 

Tendonitis occurs when the tendons that connect muscle to bone become inflamed. Overuse, repetitive motions, or sudden injuries can lead to swelling and pain in the wrist or forearm. De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, for example, is a type of tendonitis that affects the thumb side of your wrist and is often seen in new parents or people who lift babies frequently.

 

Signs of wrist tendonitis:

  • Pain with movement or grasping
  • Swelling along the wrist joint
  • Tenderness over specific tendons
  • Stiffness in the morning

 

Arthritis 

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the wrist and fingers. Osteoarthritis is the wear-and-tear type, more common with age, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes painful inflammation in the joints.

 

Signs of arthritis in the wrist or hand:

  • Aching or burning pain, especially after use
  • Joint stiffness and swelling
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Bony bumps or deformity in advanced cases

 

Nerve Compression Elsewhere

Sometimes, numbness or tingling in the wrist and hand can stem from a pinched nerve higher up in the arm or even in the neck. For example, cubital tunnel syndrome affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow and can cause symptoms similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but typically involves the ring and pinky fingers instead.

 

When Should You See a Hand Surgeon? 

If you’re experiencing wrist, hand, or finger pain that doesn’t improve with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relief, it’s time to see a specialist. Early diagnosis can prevent long-term nerve damage or joint deterioration.

 

Dr. Avery Arora, a board-certified hand surgeon serving Southeast Michigan, will evaluate your symptoms, perform specialized tests, and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Many patients find relief through non-surgical options like splinting, physical therapy, or targeted injections. When surgery is necessary, our team uses the latest techniques to help you recover quickly and comfortably.

 

Take the First Step Toward Relief 

Wrist and hand pain shouldn’t hold you back from work, hobbies, or a good night’s sleep. If you’re wondering whether your pain is carpal tunnel syndrome or something else, Dr. Arora and the team at Arora Hand Surgery are here to help.

 

Ready to find answers? Schedule your consultation today at one of our convenient Southeast Michigan locations today.

Categories
General

Finding the Right Hand Surgeon Near Me: Expert Hand Care in Michigan

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arora hand surgery

If you are searching for a “hand surgeon near me,” you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options available on the results page. How do you find the best hand specialist in Michigan to make sure you receive the best care possible? Should you see a general practitioner first, or is it better to go directly to a specialist? And how do you know if your condition even requires a hand doctor? In this blog, we’ll answer these questions, and more, so that you can find expert hand care that is right for you.

Should I See a Hand Specialist or a General Doctor? 

While you can certainly start with a general practitioner, if your symptoms stem from your hands, wrists, or arms, a referral to a hand specialist in Michigan may be necessary. A hand specialist can:

  • Accurately diagnose conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and elbows.
  • Identify underlying causes of pain that may not be immediately obvious.
  • Use advanced medical technology specifically designed for hand and upper extremity issues.
  • Provide targeted treatments, including therapy and surgical solutions, for optimal recovery.

What Should I Look for in a Hand Surgeon? 

Not all hand doctors provide the same level of care. Experience is key when selecting a hand surgeon in Detroit or anywhere in Michigan. A specialist with years of experience is more likely to provide comprehensive care, make accurate diagnoses, and offer effective treatments.

When researching a hand surgeon near you, consider the following:

Experience Matters
  • A hand surgeon with years of specialized experience is more likely to diagnose conditions accurately and recommend the best treatment.
  • Experience also means they have likely treated a wide range of hand-related conditions, from carpal tunnel syndrome to complex hand fractures.
  • Look for surgeons who focus specifically on hand and wrist surgery rather than general orthopedic surgeons.
Patient Reviews and Recommendations
  • Check online reviews on platforms like Google, Healthgrades, or RateMDs to see what past patients say about their experiences.
  • Ask for recommendations from family doctors, physical therapists, or previous patients who had similar conditions.
Doctor’s Credentials and Training
  • Board certification in hand surgery or orthopedic surgery is an important qualification.
  • Consider whether they have fellowship training in hand surgery, which indicates extra specialization.
  • Membership in professional organizations like the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) can be a positive sign.
Use of Modern Equipment & Advanced Treatment Methods
  • Some hand surgeons offer minimally invasive procedures that can reduce recovery time and scarring.
  • Look for clinics that provide ultrasound-guided injections, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, and advanced imaging technology.
  • The availability of these tools can improve the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment.
In-House Hand Therapy for Recovery
  • Post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial for a full recovery and regaining hand function.
  • Some hand surgery clinics have onsite certified hand therapists (CHTs) who guide patients through exercises and therapy sessions.
  • This convenience ensures continuity of care and better treatment outcomes.

How to Find the Best Hand Surgeon Near Me 

In addition to online research, ask friends, family, or colleagues if they have visited a hand specialist in Michigan. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights. Here are some important questions to ask:

  • How quickly were you able to get an appointment?
  • Was the office staff welcoming and helpful?
  • Did the doctor take the time to answer your questions?
  • Did the doctor demonstrate genuine care for your concerns?
  • What was the treatment process like?
  • Did you undergo surgery? If so, what was the experience before and after the procedure?
  • Have follow-up visits been helpful?

Why Choose Arora Hand Surgery? 

After considering all these factors, we hope that Arora Hand Surgery will be at the top of your list – and encourage you to research our website to see why. Led by Dr. Avery Arora, a renowned “Top Doc” hand surgeon in the metro-Detroit area, our team provides expert care for a wide range of hand, wrist, and elbow conditions. With locations across Metro Detroit, including Howell, Macomb, Warren, and West Bloomfield, we make it easy to find a hand surgeon when you need specialized treatment.

If you’re experiencing hand pain or discomfort, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today at Arora Hand Surgery for expert care from a trusted hand specialist in Michigan.

 

Categories
General

What to Expect at a Michigan Hand Surgery Consultation

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What to Expect at a Michigan Hand Surgery Consultation

You suspect you may need hand surgery and have decided to speak with a specialist. Before we begin, may we just commend you for taking the first step in bettering your health? We want to assure you that hand surgery is not always the only option after a diagnosis and that good hand surgeons like Dr. Avery Arora will always keep your best interest in mind. Here’s what to expect at a Michigan hand surgery consultation.

“What Types of Questions Will the Doctor Ask?”

It’s vital you know that open transparency of your medical background is of the utmost importance. Your doctor will want to know:

  • if you have had any other medical conditions
  • if you are presently going through any other medical treatments or prescribed any medications
  • if you have ever had any other surgeries
  • if you have any known drug allergies
  • about tobacco use, alcohol, and other drugs

 

“What Should I Tell the Doctor About My Hand?”

The short answer? Everything. Be prepared to share the full medical history of the condition in question. The doctor’s office may require images of the hand, such as x-rays, to help paint a clearer picture of the problem.

During the consultation, the doctors will determine your overall health status and whether you have any risk factors or conditions that may prevent you from being a good candidate for surgery.

They will discuss the available options you have that will give you the best chance of restoring function of your hand and returning to a normal quality of live. If you decide to proceed with the procedure, the doctor will explain what happens from start to finish and will let you know of any potential risks involved.

What to Expect at a Michigan Hand Surgery Consultation

“What Questions Should I Ask?”

We empower you to ask questions, too. While it might seem as though it’s the doctor’s role to ask questions during the consultation, patients need to make their voices heard as well. Some questions a patient should ask their hand physician could include:

  • If surgery is the best option, what could the potential complications mean for me in my day-to-day life?
  • How long will it typically take someone to recover from this particular type of procedure?
  • What type of therapy would be useful to help recover faster?
  • What else can I do in my day-to-day life to help the recovery process?

You can find more recommended questions in one of our other blogs.

During your hand surgery consultation, we can’t stress enough how important it is for local patient to feel empowered to vet if that particular Michigan hand doctor is right for them. If you have any reservations about the doctor, do not feel as though you are “locked in.” Speak with other Michigan hand specialists to get second opinions and feedback.

Your hand surgery consultation is the chance to learn everything you need to know about the procedures that could help improve or restore function to your hand. Pay attention, ask questions, and get peace of mind before surgery.

If you’ve been putting off speaking with a hand doctor about a hand, wrist, or elbow issue that has been bothering you, 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.

 

Categories
General Hands

Keeping Your Hands Safe When Using Power Tools

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power tool safety

Injuries related to power tools are on the rise, largely due to the increase in DIY aficionados who take on projects after the holiday season. Things have slowed down and it’s too cold to go outside, so out comes the good ol’ “honey do” list. Before you get started, let’s talk about keeping your hands safe when using power tools this winter so that you can avoid hand injury treatment.

Professionals, although not immune to accidents, generally know that keeping their hands safe when using power tools comes from in-depth training and experience. However, an ambitious yet inexperienced person whose optimism may overshadow his or her risk assessment, may encounter dangers that are important to be aware of.

Table Saws

The table saw is probably the most dangerous power tool you can use. Equipped with a ten-inch blade spinning at 3500 revolutions per minute and an edger operating at over a hundred miles per hour, improper use of this tool can be a recipe for disaster. Always keep your hands away from the saw blade and edger. When feeding a piece of wood through the saw, push it using another piece of wood – never your hand. The momentum of your sawing movement may inadvertently and unexpectantly lead your hand toward the saw and then it’s too late to correct the mistake.

In any given year in the United States, approximately 60,000 injuries are due to table saw use. 3,000 of them result in amputation. We hate to paint such a grim picture of you, but we cannot stress how important it is to be careful when using this tool.

 

Nail Guns

Nail guns work by using compressed air to deliver a nail into a piece of wood at a pressure of approximately 120 pounds per square inch. Even a small nail gun can be very dangerous. About 42,000 injuries are reported annually, and 40% of those injuries are incurred by well-meaning do-it-yourselfers. In addition to puncture wounds to the hands and wrists, nails have often been delivered to other parts of the body too.

When using a nail gun, you should always make sure that it is in sequential mode as opposed to contact mode. This does add another step to the process since you need to pull the trigger instead of just depressing the muzzle but doing so can prevent injury. And obviously, keep your hands away from anywhere that a misfire could cause a nail to exit unexpectedly from the wood.

 

Chainsaws

power tool safetyWe probably don’t have to tell you the kind of damage that a chainsaw can do to your hands, arms, or other parts of your body. A chainsaw is very dangerous when used improperly and without the use of protective gear.  Over 30,000 chainsaw injuries are reported yearly in the United States, and the typical injury requires over a hundred stitches.

Now, if you’re thinking you can forego the protective gear, because after all, it is expensive, think about those 100+ stitches. Now, think about the fact that a pair of protective chaps costs about as much as one stitch in your hospital emergency room. Invest into proper gear, such as heavy duty gloves, so that you won’t have to be Googling “hand doctor near me” after a failed log cutting attempt. Here’s a helpful video on other chainsaw safety tips.

 

Circular Saw

It seems as if practically everybody owns a circular saw, but most people have no idea how to properly it. Most injuries are caused by people bracing a piece of lumber against their knee which is the most common method for injury that we see here in our offices. Other injuries are caused by using the saw with one hand while holding the wood with the other. You should always clamp the wood, so that you can keep both hands on the saw. We also highly recommend using a sawhorse for further insurance.

Power tools are among the greatest conveniences of modern life, but when handled improperly, they can be dangerous one-way tickets to hand and wrist injuries.

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

Categories
General Hands Treatments

Scar Removal & Treatment: How Dr. Arora Minimizes the Appearance of Hand Scars

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The type and extent of a scar will determine the best hand scar removal and treatment options, as represented by this image of a scar on a man's hand.

Most patients ask us about any potential scarring on the hands or wrists prior to undergoing surgery, and their concerns are understandable. The truth is that most hand surgeries may result in some minor scarring. In most cases, however, we find that dramatically better than having to live with the pain, discomfort, and appearance of the initial condition, and most patients definitely agree.

The good news is that most hand scars after surgery are very minor, almost unnoticeable. Even when they are slightly more pronounced, our hand doctor offers scar removal and treatment options that can minimize their appearance.

Dr. Arora can also minimize scars due to injury or minor burns, as well as some skin imperfections that were present at birth.

Why Scars Form

Most of us know what scars are and likely have one or more. Before we get into how scars are treated, however, let us talk about why scars form in the first place. We think it’s rather fascinating, actually, and it just goes to show how smart our bodies really are!

Scars are essentially the body’s natural Band-Aid or stitches. They form as a part of the healing process after your skin has been cut, burned, scratched, or otherwise injured. The skin repairs itself by growing new tissue in gaps, and that tissue pulls the wound together. Without the body’s natural ability to grow this new tissue to “stitch” the skin back together, your body would be at risk of infection, expansion of the injury, permanent damage, or worse.

Scar Removal & Treatment Options at Arora Hand Surgery

The type and extent of a scar will determine the best scar removal and treatment options, especially in the case of burns. If a scar is associated with damage to tissues beneath the skin, including the nerves and tendons, other treatment options may be necessary. If the scar is superficial, meaning it’s only on the surface of the skin, treatment can be effective.

Several different procedures are commonly used to minimize the appearance of scars.

Scar Massage or Vibration

Massaging the area with petroleum jelly, cocoa butter, or hand lotion can loosen the skin. The area should be massaged in the direction of the scar for 10 minutes twice a day. After about 3 months, you should start to see some results.

Exercises

We know. … Suggesting controlled exercise programs for scars seems counterintuitive. You’re trying to reduce the scars, after all, not beef them up or give them more endurance!

But think of it as telling your body, “Hey, you don’t have to panic and build up all this extra tissue. I’m taking care of it in a different way. See what I’m doing to help you?”

And of course, we’re not talking about weightlifting or cardio. The exercises are based on stimulating nearby joints and tendons to keep them gliding smoothly under the skin.

Pressure Therapy

Pressure therapy is typically used right after surgery or after a burn. Applying a pressure garment over dressings to a wound while it’s healing can minimize the appearance of scars, or at least help keep them flatter.

Silicone Gel

Placing a thin layer of silicone gel over the area serves as a bandage, and the gel can remain on the hands throughout the day. If Dr. Arora recommends this scar treatment remedy for you, the gel should be used for at least 12 hours per day for a minimum of three months.

Injections or Surgery

Burn scars or other injuries may require surgical treatment. (Serious, high-degree burns may need to be treated at specialized burn centers, such as those at the University of Michigan and the Detroit Medical Center’s Detroit Receiving Hospital.)

Treatment options include:

1. Collagen injections/fillers

Some skin care professionals can inject collagen into the area to create a smoother appearance.

2. Scar revision surgery

Scar revision surgery attempts to minimize a scar to make it less visible as well as blend in with the surrounding skin.

3. Skin grafts

Natural skin or a synthetic material can be used to fill skin at the area, or the surgeon would remove the scar and then replace the skin with the synthetic material.

4. Excision

Scars are cut out and removed during a surgical procedure, although this may leave a smaller scar in this place.

5. Laser surgery

Unlike excisions, laser surgery does not involve cutting out the scar. Instead, a fractional laser light is used to break down scar tissue and trigger healthy new tissue to form at the site.

6. Dermabrasion

Offered by some dermatologists and plastic surgeons, dermabrasion is an exfoliating technique that uses a rotating instrument to remove the outer layers of skin.

Not all these injections or surgeries are available through Arora Hand Surgery, although we can recommend other skin care professionals who may be able to assist you. These techniques are also not ideal for every patient; it depends on the types of scars you have and how deep they are, as well as a combination of your preferences and Dr. Arora’s recommendations. Talk with Dr. Arora, a dermatologist, or a plastic surgeon to see if any of these options are suitable for you.

If you want to know more about wrist and hand scar removal and treatment options, make an appointment to see the hand specialist at his West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell office.

Categories
Fingers General

First Aid Tip: How to Wrap a Broken Knuckle

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It's important to know how to wrap a broken knuckle properly, as shown here, for proper first aid treatment.

Some people let a broken knuckle heal on its own, but we urge you not to do that.

Getting treatment as soon as possible for a knuckle injury is essential to proper recovery. If you don’t get a broken knuckle treated professionally, your finger may never look or function the same as it did prior to the injury.

For that reason, knowing how to wrap a broken knuckle until you can get in to see a doctor can help the bone set properly, reduce the possibility of further injury, and minimize pain.

How to Wrap a Broken Knuckle

Before wrapping a broken knuckle, examine the injured area to make sure the finger is likely broken, yet not bleeding, burned, or extremely swollen. All of these would require additional or other forms of first aid treatment, including possibly a visit to the emergency room.

Signs of a broken knuckle include:

  • Pain that is typically instant and severe, although you still may be able to bend the knuckle
  • Increased pain when you try to move the finger
  • Swelling, which typically begins about 10 minutes after the initial injury, of the affected finger as well as possibly other fingers, the palm, or the back of the hand
  • Inability to move your hand or affected fingers
  • Bruising that may be visible right away
  • Numbness as swelling increases
  • Finger compression
  • Difficulty making a fist
  • A sunken knuckle, which is the clearest sign of a broken knuckle

A common do-it-yourself first aid treatment in this case is to “buddy wrap” the affected finger with the one beside it.

Cut enough tape to wrap around both fingers, and place a piece of tape between the first and second joints and another piece between the second and third joints. Do not place the tape on the knuckles, but try to use pieces of medical tape that are wide enough to cover significant areas between the joints.

The tape should be firmly secured but not so tight that it causes the fingers to swell or become numb.

Alternatively, you can purchase a finger splint from a local pharmacy or other general retailer.

Make an Appointment with a Hand Doctor Afterward

The above recommendations regarding how to wrap a broken knuckle are intended for general first aid. Our blogs are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

After first aid treatment, it’s important to see Dr. Arora in West Bloomfield, Howell, Warren, or Macomb Township for proper treatment of the broken knuckle. Make an appointment to see the hand specialist through our website or by calling our office.

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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.
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