Wrist and Hand

Question 1

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Answer 1

-compression of median nerve
-ischemia of nerve

S/S: numbeness in index and middle fingers, weakness

Cause: repetittive mmt, decrease in volume of tunnel (spurs, tumor, RA, position), increase in volume of contents (edema, inflammation)

Better: rest

Worse: prolonged wrist flexion, vibration

Treatment:
-PT: nerve glides, mobilization
-surgery

Question 2

De Quervain’s Syndrome

Answer 2

-inflammation of EPB and APL tendons
-mom’s hand

S/S: pain on radial side of wrist, weakness

Cause: overuse, repeated radial deviation, thumb abduction

Better: rest

Worse: wide gripping

Treatment:
-PT: reduce stress, strength

Question 3

Trigger Finger

Answer 3

-tenosynovitis of flexor digits

S/S: catching of finger, pain and tenderness on volar side

Cause: repetitive forceful gripping, systemic disease, nodules

Better: rest

Worse: gripping

Treatment:
-PT: ROM
-surgical release