Wrists & Hands

Common problems around the wrist and hand can arise from repetitive strain injuries such as using a keyboard. Factors which can contribute include unusually prolonged periods of time using the keyboard, or using the keyboard in an awkward position (too high, too low, at an awkward angle etc) or switching from one type of use to another - (keyboard to mouse, scrolling etc).

Injuries to the wrist often occur as a result of a fall on to the outstretched hand. These injuries may include fractures of the wrist bones (radius, ulna, scaphiod) and dislocation of the hand bones. Patients may also fracture a bone in their hand (the hamate) swinging a golf club or tennis racquet. These injuries usually require further investigations and physiotherapy to restore strength and movement as the fracture/ dislocation heals.

Hand and finger injuries are very common in sport and although the majority require minimal treatment, some are potentially serious and require immobilisation, precise splinting or surgery. Many hand and finger injuries require specific rehabilitation and appropriate protection upon return to activity. Treatment and rehabilitation of hand injuries is complex and involves splinting, compression, specific strengthening exercises and taping.