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Hand Specialist in Singapore
Dr Chee Kin Ghee, with over 20 years of experience in hand and orthopaedic surgery, specialises in complex hand, wrist, and upper limb injuries. His expertise includes wrist and finger joint replacement, minimally invasive hand and wrist surgery, and nerve compression release surgery.
Are you facing hand or wrist issues affecting your everyday activities? Our hand and wrist specialist can provide you with a thorough evaluation and personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific health needs.
Dr. Chee Kin Ghee
Common Hand and Wrist Conditions
Hand and wrist conditions can vary in symptoms and severity. They range from common repetitive strain injuries to more complex congenital deformities. Here are some of the prevalent conditions treated at our clinic:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - This condition is characterised by pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist. These symptoms result from pressure on the median nerve.
- Trigger Finger - Often linked to repetitive gripping, this condition causes the fingers or thumb to catch or lock when bent.
- Mallet Finger - This injury affects the tendon or bone that straightens the end joint of a finger or thumb, typically due to an impact on the fingertip.
- Wrist Fractures - These include fractures of the carpal bones, radius, or ulna, often occurring in athletes from impacts or falls.
- Hand Arthritis - This encompasses several conditions, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. They can cause pain and stiffness in the hand joints.
- Hand Fractures - These involve breaks to the bones in the hand. They often result from workplace accidents or repetitive movements.
- Congenital Hand Deformities - These conditions affect the development of a child's hands, such as syndactyly, polydactyly, symbrachydactyly, club hand, and cleft hand.
Common Causes Of Hand and Wrist Conditions
The causes of hand and wrist conditions are diverse, ranging from acute injuries to chronic disorders.
Repetitive Strain
Continuous repetitive motions, especially in occupational or sporting activities, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.
Trauma
Injuries from falls, sports, or accidents often result in fractures, ligament injuries, and tendon damage.
Age-Related Wear and Tear
Degenerative changes over time contribute to conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Inflammatory Diseases
Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis cause chronic inflammation in the joints.
Congenital Factors
Some individuals are born with congenital deformities like syndactyly or polydactyly, impacting hand function.
Certain Medical Conditions
Diseases such as diabetes and thyroid disorders can predispose individuals to conditions like trigger finger.
Nerve Compression
Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome arise from the compression of nerves in the hand and wrist.
Symptoms and Signs
Hand and wrist conditions manifest as a range of symptoms and signs:
- Pain and Discomfort: A common symptom in various conditions, ranging from a dull ache to sharp pain.
- Swelling and Inflammation: Often accompanying injuries like fractures or arthritis.
- Numbness and Tingling: Indicative of nerve compression, as seen in carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Stiffness and Reduced Mobility: Common in arthritis and after injuries.
- Visible Deformity: Visible changes in the shape of the hand or wrist, often due to fractures or congenital deformities.
- Weakness: A reduction in grip strength or difficulty in performing tasks, potentially due to nerve damage or muscle wasting.
- Catching or Locking: Specific to trigger finger, where the finger gets stuck in a bent position.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis for a hand or wrist condition involves a comprehensive approach which typically includes the following:
- Medical History: The patient’s current symptoms, medical background, and any incidents or activities that might have contributed to the condition are discussed. This helps in understanding the onset, duration, and progression of symptoms.
- Physical Examination: The hand and wrist specialist examines the affected area for signs such as tenderness, swelling, deformity, and limited movement. Specific manoeuvres may be performed to replicate symptoms and identify the affected structures.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are the first line of imaging to identify bone fractures and joint misalignments. An MRI or ultrasound might be used for detailed visualisation of soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and nerves, especially in cases where the X-ray is inconclusive.
- Nerve Conduction Studies: This can help diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. These tests measure the speed and strength of electrical signals passing through the nerves. It helps in determining the extent of nerve compression and damage.
- Blood Tests: Particularly relevant for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Blood tests can reveal specific markers and antibodies, aiding in diagnosing and differentiating from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Non-surgical treatments play a role in managing many hand and wrist conditions, focusing on pain relief, inflammation reduction, and functional improvement.
Rest and Activity Modification
This may be recommended initially to alleviate symptoms and prevent further aggravation of the condition. This includes avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition, such as repetitive strain or heavy lifting.
Splinting and Bracing
Immobilising the affected area helps in healing, reducing pain, and preventing further injury. This can include wrist splints for carpal tunnel syndrome or finger splints for trigger finger.
Medications and Injection Therapy
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, steroid injections may be administered for temporary relief of severe symptoms.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy exercises are designed to aid in strengthening the hand and wrist muscles and to improve the range of motion. It can aid the rehabilitation process and help manage chronic conditions.
Surgical Treatment Options
In cases where non-surgical treatments are insufficient, surgery may be necessary to restore function and relieve symptoms. Surgerical procedures may include:
- Nerve Compression Release Surgery
This surgery is relevant for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the goal is to alleviate pressure on the affected nerves. - Trigger Finger Release
Involves the surgical release of the constricted section of the tendon sheath to allow smooth finger movement. - Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF)
In severe cases of wrist fractures, especially where bones are displaced or unstable, surgical intervention may involve an incision to align the fracture. Hardware like plates, screws, and pins are used to hold the bone fragments in place and facilitate healing. - Tenosynovectomy
Used in severe cases of De Quervain Tenosynovitis, this procedure involves the surgical release of the sheath surrounding the inflamed tendons. - Dupuytren’s Fasciectomy
Removes or separates the thickened fascia to restore finger mobility in Dupuytren’s contracture. - Synovectomy
Removes the inflamed joint lining in cases of severe arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis. - Joint Replacement
For severe joint damage due to arthritis or other conditions, joint replacement surgeries in the wrist and fingers can be performed to restore function and alleviate pain.
Rehabilitation Process
The rehabilitation process for hand and wrist conditions involves a tailored programme designed to restore function, strength, and flexibility after injury or surgery.
It typically includes a combination of physiotherapy, such as exercises to improve the range of motion and strengthen the muscles, and occupational therapy, focusing on regaining the ability to perform daily activities.
The duration and intensity of rehabilitation depend on the specific condition and individual progress, with ongoing evaluation and adjustment by the hand and wrist specialist to ensure optimal recovery.
Preventing Hand and Wrist Complications
While prevention is not always possible, several strategies can help reduce the risk of developing hand and wrist conditions.
- Ergonomic Modifications to Reduce Strain: Modifying the workspace to ensure ergonomic positioning can reduce strain on the hands and wrists. This includes using suitable keyboard and mouse designs, and ensuring correct posture while working.
- Regular Breaks to Relieve Stress on the Hand and Wrist: Taking short, frequent breaks during activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements can help prevent strain and overuse injury.
- Protective Gear to Support the Hand and Wrist: Utilising wrist guards or gloves during high-risk activities, such as sports or certain types of manual work, can provide support and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Strength and Flexibility Exercises: Regular exercises that strengthen hand and wrist muscles and enhance flexibility can improve joint stability and decrease the likelihood of injuries.
- Maintaining Good Bone and Joint Health Through Diet and Exercise: Maintaining overall health through a balanced diet and regular exercise contributes to bone and joint health, reducing the risk of conditions like arthritis.
Our Clinic Locations
Spire Hand & Upper Limb Centre
3 Mount Elizabeth, #07-10
Singapore 228510
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Spire Orthopaedic Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre
101 Irrawaddy Road, #18-03
Singapore 329565
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Continue to Engage in Physical Activities If I Have a Hand or Wrist Condition?
Engaging in physical activities with a hand or wrist condition depends on the specific condition and its severity. In many cases, modifications to activities or using protective gear can allow continued participation. Consult a hand and wrist specialist to assess your condition and receive personalised guidance on activity levels and necessary precautions.
How Long Does It Take to Recover from Hand and Wrist Pain?
Recovery time from hand and wrist pain varies depending on the underlying condition and treatment approach. Minor injuries may heal within a few weeks, while more severe conditions or those requiring surgery might take several months. A hand and wrist specialist can provide a more accurate recovery timeline based on your specific condition and treatment plan.
What Happens If Hand and Wrist Conditions Go Untreated?
Untreated hand and wrist conditions can lead to worsening symptoms, reduced functionality, and long-term complications. Early intervention often results in better outcomes. Consult a hand and wrist specialist if you are experiencing persistent hand or wrist pain.
How Do I Know If My Hand or Wrist Pain Warrants Medical Attention?
Hand or wrist pain that persists, worsens or is accompanied by symptoms like swelling, numbness, or reduced mobility should prompt a medical consultation. If the pain interferes with your daily activities or does not improve with basic home care, seek the expertise of a hand and wrist specialist.