Don't Ignore The Signs: When It’s Time To See An Atlanta Hand Specialist About Your Pain

Everyone in Atlanta encounters some level of hand pain or discomfort at some point in their lives, but there comes a time when it may need to be addressed by a medical specialist. This article will help you understand the signs as well as give you tips so that you can find the best hand specialist for your particular needs.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Hand Pain

There are many potential causes of hand pain, and it can be difficult to identify the exact cause without consulting a medical professional. However, some of the most common causes of hand pain include the following.

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed due to repetitive activities or poor posture.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons in the hands or wrists. It can be caused by repetitive motion, overuse, or an injury. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling at the site of inflammation.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a common condition that can affect any joint in the body, including the hands and wrists. It is characterized by pain, stiffness, swelling, and cracking of affected joints. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the type and severity of arthritis.

Trigger finger/thumb

A trigger finger or thumb is a condition that occurs when the tendons in the finger or thumb become inflamed, making it difficult to bend and straighten the affected digit. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and clicking or snapping sensations when moving the affected finger or thumb.

Injury or trauma

Injuries or traumas to the hands may also result in pain. These can range from minor sprains or strains to more serious fractures, dislocations, and even nerve damage.

How To Know When Your Hand Pain Is Serious Enough To Require Hand Specialist Care 

Knowing when your hand pain is serious enough to warrant a visit to an Atlanta hand specialist can be difficult. Here are some of the most common signs that it may be time to seek professional care.

  1. You experience sharp, shooting pain in your hand or fingers that is not alleviated by over-the-counter medication.
  2. Your pain is accompanied by swelling, bruising, or redness in the affected area.
  3. You have difficulty moving your hand or fingers due to stiffness or soreness.
  4. You feel tingling or numbness in your hand or fingers that does not go away after a few minutes.
  5. Your grip strength decreases, making it difficult to hold onto objects.
  6. Your handwriting becomes illegible due to difficulty controlling the muscles in your hands and/or fingers.

How To Find A Hand Specialist In Atlanta That Is Experienced And Capable Of Treating Your Particular Issue

Finding a hand specialist in Atlanta who can treat your particular issue can be daunting, but with some ways to go about it, you can make the process a lot easier.

One way is to ask around for recommendations from friends and family. If they have seen a hand specialist in the area, you can get more information about that doctor and decide if it is the right fit for your particular needs.

Another way is to do some of your own research online. You can search for "hand specialist in Atlanta" on your preferred search engine and see what comes up. From there, you can check out their websites and social media accounts to get a better feel for the doctor.

Finally, you can always check out online directories like those of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH). This will give you a comprehensive list of hand specialists to choose from and more information about each doctor.

What To Look For When Considering An Atlanta Hand Specialist For Your Hand Pain

When considering an Atlanta hand specialist for your hand pain, there are a few important factors to consider.

Training and experience

It is important to look for a hand specialist who has extensive training and experience in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various hand conditions. Look for someone who is board-certified by the American Board of Hand Surgery or a similar organization and ask about their experience treating your particular condition.

Area of expertise

Make sure that the hand specialist has experience treating your specific condition. Many practitioners are trained and experienced in a variety of different medical fields, so make sure to confirm that they have expertise in an area such as carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis before making an appointment.

Location and accessibility

It is also important to consider the location of the hand specialist. Make sure that it is in a convenient location for you and that they have both an office and surgical center nearby. Additionally, look for one who offers some sort of telemedicine services so you can stay connected with your physician even when you are not able to physically visit their office.

Reputation and reviews

Finally, be sure to research the specialist’s reputation and read reviews of them online. This will give you a better understanding of their experience and services so that you can make an informed decision when choosing a hand specialist in Atlanta.

Visiting a hand specialist like the ones at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow which possesses all of these qualities can help ensure that you are receiving the best possible care for your hand condition.

What To Expect When You Visit A Hand Specialist For Your Hand Pain

When you visit a hand specialist for your hand pain, you can expect them to perform a thorough examination of your hands and wrists. The physician will typically start by assessing the range of motion in your hands and fingers. During this assessment, they may ask questions about any specific activities that cause pain or problems with movement. They may also check the strength of your grip and look for any signs of swelling or tenderness.

The doctor may also order imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to assess the severity of your hand pain. These tests can help provide a better picture of the bone and soft tissue damage that is causing your symptoms.

Your physician may also perform a nerve conduction study to identify any potential nerve damage. This information can help the doctor determine an effective treatment plan.

Finally, your hand specialist will likely discuss lifestyle changes and treatments you can use to manage your pain. This may include physical therapy, medications, splints or braces, injections, or surgery. Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of each option so you can make an informed decision.

No matter what treatment plan is recommended, it’s important to follow your hand specialist’s instructions for a successful recovery. With proper care, your hand pain should improve over time.

Contact A Hand Specialist In Atlanta

Hand pain can be debilitating, which is why it’s important to have a professional hand specialist assess the situation and develop an appropriate plan of treatment. They can be the difference between life-altering pain and a manageable situation.

If you're in Atlanta and looking for a hand specialist, contact the team at Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow. They have years of experience in treating hand pain and can help you find relief. Contact them to schedule an appointment.