An upper extremity specialist is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, and conditions related to the shoulder, elbow, and hand. The upper extremity specialist performs a variety of tasks, including orthopedic surgeries on the bones, joints, and tendons and specialized soft tissue procedures such as arthroscopy (keyhole surgery) for rotator cuff tears and ligament reconstruction and fractures. Orthopedic hand surgeons are a kind of upper extremity specialists specializing in diseases, disorders, and conditions that affect the primary function of the hand. Here are some common conditions Upper Extremity Specialists can help you treat.
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Shoulder Injuries
Many common shoulder injuries are treated by upper extremity specialists, including sprains and fractures of the clavicle (collarbone) or shoulder blade. Other conditions often seen by an upper extremity specialist include rotator cuff tears, bicep tendonitis, impingement syndrome, and arthritis. If you have a shoulder injury, you may experience pain, reduced strength, and decreased movement in your shoulder. An upper extremity specialist may recommend rest, physical therapy, or medications to relieve symptoms. If these treatments are not successful, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the torn tissue.
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Elbow Injuries
Many common elbow injuries are treated by upper extremity specialists, including fractures of the elbow bone (radius) or a type of ligament injury called “olecranon” bursitis. Other conditions often seen by an upper extremity specialist include tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and tendonitis. If you have an elbow injury, you may experience pain, reduced strength, and decreased movement in your arm. An upper extremity specialist may recommend rest, physical therapy, or medications to relieve symptoms. If these treatments are not successful, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair broken bones or torn tissues.
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Hand Injuries
Many common hand injuries are treated by upper extremity specialists, including fractures, dislocations, and injuries to the hand’s ligaments, tendons, or nerves. Other conditions that an upper extremity specialist often sees include:
- Dupuytren’s contracture (a disease of connective tissue).
- Carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Overuse syndromes.
- Ganglions cysts.
- Nail bed injuries.
If you have a hand injury, you may experience pain, numbness, or tingling in your fingers. An upper extremity specialist may recommend rest, physical therapy, splints, or medications to relieve symptoms. If these treatments are not successful, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair broken bones or torn tissues.
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Wrist Injuries
Many common wrist injuries are treated by upper extremity specialists, including fractures and dislocations of the bones in your wrist. Other conditions often seen by an upper extremity specialist include carpal tunnel syndrome, overuse syndromes, ganglions cysts, and tendonitis. If you have a wrist injury, you may experience pain or numbness in your wrist and fingers. An upper extremity specialist may recommend rest, physical therapy, splints, or medications to relieve symptoms. If these treatments are not successful, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair broken bones or torn tissues.
In summary, an upper extremity specialist can help diagnose, treat, and manage various conditions that affect the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, or neck. If you are experiencing pain, visit your doctor to determine if you should see an upper extremity specialist for treatment.
