If you have ever injured your wrist or hand, you are probably familiar with the many myths and misconceptions that exist about these injuries. Many people believe that wrist and hand injuries are always very serious and require a lot of time to heal. This is not always the case! In this blog post, we will discuss 5 of the most common misconceptions about wrist and hand injuries. By understanding these misconceptions, you can better care for your injury and speed up the healing process.
Injuries to the wrist and hand are common, especially among athletes. However, there are many misconceptions about these injuries. Here are 5 of the most common ones:
This is often not the case. Many wrist and hand injuries can be quite serious, depending on the nature of the injury. For example, a break or fracture to one of the bones in the hand can require surgery and/or rehabilitation.
Again, this is often not true. Depending on the nature of the injury, you may be able to still perform some activities, albeit with some modifications. For example, if you have a broken wrist, you may not be able to lift your arm above your head, but you may still be able to do some light activities such as reading or watching TV.
This is also not always the case. If there is no pain and the injury is minor, it is usually okay to move the affected area. Moving the joint can help reduce any swelling and stiffness. However, if there is pain or swelling, then it is best to avoid moving the joint until you speak with a doctor.
This is not true. Wrist and hand injuries can occur in anyone, regardless of their age or activity level. The elderly are at a higher risk for wrist and hand fractures due to their decreased bone density.
There are some things you can do to help reduce your risk of injury. Some tips include: using proper safety equipment when playing sports, being aware of your surroundings when walking or running, and avoiding excessive strain on the wrists and hands. If you have any questions about preventing wrist or hand injuries, please speak with a doctor or physical therapist.
If the pain is becoming unbearable, you can assist ease it at home. Applying heat or ice to the painful region can help relieve pain, decrease inflammation, and improve mobility. If needed, anti-inflammatories or pain medicines are available over-the-counter. Change your routine to give your aching hands and wrists a break.
If your pain is getting worse, you should see your doctor. They may be able to assist you with additional therapies. Splinting to different surgical methods are some of the therapies available.
Wrist and hand injuries can be quite serious, so it is important to be aware of the 5 most common misconceptions about them. By doing so, you can better understand these injuries and how to best treat them.
Dr. Chen sees patients at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital Center for Sports Medicine in Walnut Creek, California. He is a board-certified Pediatrician and Sports Medicine Doctor that specializes in the non-operative medical treatment of a wide variety of various musculoskeletal conditions, including back injuries. Dr. Chen graduated from St. George’s University School of Medicine and went on to complete Pediatric residency training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry in New Jersey (Rutgers), then went on to fellowship training in Sports Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, one of the perennially top-ranked children’s hospitals in the nation. There he provided sideline coverage for NCAA Division I athletics at the University of Cincinnati and Miami University (OH). Since graduating, Dr. Chen has continued his love of sports coverage by volunteering for the San Francisco Marathon, the San Francisco Giant Race, and as the team physician for Northgate High School in Walnut Creek. Being a part of The Center for Sports Medicine allows Dr. Chen quick access to a multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, podiatrists, physiatrists, and physical therapists to return you to your highest functional level quickly and safely. Click here to contact us for your next appointment!
925-934-3536
stephen.chen@eastbaysportsdoc.com