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Strain vs Rupture: Tendon Injuries In The Hand
What’s The Difference Between Hand Injuries?
Hands are composed of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons that are vulnerable to injury over time or all of a sudden. Hand tendon injuries can occur during vigorous physical activity or doing everyday activities such as typing. Tendon injuries in the hand can range from a minor sprain to a complete and painful rupture. A doctor can help determine the severity of the hand injury.
What’s a tendon strain?
The hand tendons connect muscle to bone and can tear. Hand sprains can also be referred to as strains. A tendon sprain occurs when the tendon becomes stretched and can result in bruising, mild pain, swelling, and weakness. A tendon strain can also limit a person’s range of motion making everyday activities more difficult.
What’s a tendon rupture?
A tendon rupture in the hand isn’t as common as a tendon strain. A hand tendon rupture occurs when the tendon suffers a severe tear that causes pain and a limited range of motion. A loud pop can mean the tendon has ruptured. A person should consult a doctor if the pain persists for multiple days or if hand movement is limited.
Diagnosing tendon injuries in the hand
A doctor can perform a physical examination by checking the range of motion of the hand. During the exam, doctors will review a patient’s pain levels to determine the severity of the hand injury. For closer examination, a doctor may use a range of diagnostic tests such as x-rays, MRI scans, ultrasounds, and CT scans.
Treating hand injuries
Tendon injuries can be treated by immobilizing the hand to avoid further injury. Heat and ice, corticosteroid injections, occupational therapy can also be used to treat a tendon sprain. A tendon sprain or rupture may require surgery.
Recovering from tendon injuries in the hand
During recovery, patients can take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. More substantial pain relief can be used for up to a couple of weeks to avoid dependence. Physical rehabilitation experts can recommend new ergonomic techniques to avoid further hand tendon injuries.
viralmd operations2020-05-15T12:45:43-05:00Tendons, muscles and bones work together to give our arms and hands full range of movement. A traumatic injury to a tendon can prevent us from fully extending our wrist or fingers. Tendon injuries such as cuts (lacerations) and severe tendon tears require immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage. Fast, effective care is available at TriHealth Orthopedic & Sports Institute Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Our hand and wrist specialists have extensive experience treating tendon injuries and delivering exceptional outcomes.
Traumatic Tendon Injuries of the Hand and Wrist
Tendons attach muscle to bone. In the forearm, there are several tendons called “flexor tendons” that connect the muscles of the forearm to bones in the fingers. Deep cuts on the fingers, palm or forearm can damage these flexor tendons and surrounding nerve fibers. The tendons can also be stretched too far, causing partial or full tears. In some cases, a tendon can pull completely away from the bone (avulsion fracture).
Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist causes
Flexor tendon and nerve injuries in the forearm and hand are almost always caused by sudden trauma. Causes include:
- Cuts
- Contact sports
- Severe tendon degeneration
Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist symptoms
Symptoms of traumatic tendon injuries include:
- Inability to bend finger joints
- Numbness or tingling in fingertips
- Pain when extending the fingers
Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist treatment
Tendon injury treatment will depend on the severity of the trauma. A tendon that is partially cut or torn may be treated nonsurgically. Full tears will require surgery to stitch the two ends of the tendon back together. Nerve damage can also be repaired surgically. After surgery, you will likely require:
- Splinting
- Physical therapy
Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist risk factors
Certain risk factors can increase your chances of sustaining tendon or nerve injuries. These include:
- Having an underling condition such as rheumatoid arthritis
- Performing high-risk activities such as rock climbing or wrestling
- Using sharp tools or machinery
Traumatic tendon injuries of the hand and wrist prevention
Below are a few tips for reducing your risk of injury:
- Prevent sports injuries—Avoid high-impact sports that may cause traumatic tendon injuries.
- Take safety precautions—Wear protective gloves if you must handle sharp or heavy tools and machinery.
Make an appointment
If you’ve sustained a traumatic injury such as a forearm tenon laceration, our specialists can help. Get connected with a specialist who can evaluate your condition create a customized treatment plan. Learn more or make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist: Call TriHealth at 513 246 2300 or our orthopedic partner, Beacon Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, at 513 961 HAND or 513 961 4263.