Joshua J. Meaike, MD

Orthopedic Institute: Hand & Wrist Specialists

Our hands and wrists contain intricate networks of bones, muscles, and nerves, making them both powerful and delicate. Injuries or conditions affecting even a single component can disrupt daily life, making it painful or difficult to complete routine tasks. The team at Orthopedic Institute brings exceptional expertise in treating hand and wrist conditions. With fellowship-trained hand surgeons and certified hand therapists (CHTs), our physicians are dedicated to helping patients regain comfort and mobility in their hands and wrists. From minor aches to complex injuries, our team’s comprehensive approach to hand and wrist care ensures personalized treatment and optimal recovery.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This nerve controls feeling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. When it becomes compressed, symptoms like tingling, numbness, and pain can disrupt hand function.

Symptoms

• Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
• Feeling like the hand is "falling asleep"
• Weak grip, leading to frequent drops or difficulty picking up objects
• Pain that may extend up the arm

Thumb Arthritis

Thumb arthritis affects the base of the thumb and can cause aching pain, making it hard to perform tasks requiring a firm grip. This condition is common with age as cartilage wears down. Thumb arthritis may be managed with splints, anti-inflammatory medication, or joint injections. Surgery, such as joint fusion or replacement, may be an option for severe cases.

Symptoms

• Pain and stiffness at the base of the thumb
• Swelling or a noticeable bump on the thumb’s backside
• Weakness when gripping or pinching
• Difficulty performing tasks like opening jars or turning keys

Wrist Fractures

A wrist fracture typically results from a fall onto an outstretched hand, which can cause immediate pain, bruising, and swelling. Depending on the severity, fractures can be treated non-surgically or may require surgical fixation. Treatment options vary based on the fracture’s complexity. Mild fractures may heal with casting, while more severe cases could require surgical intervention to realign the bones.

Symptoms

• Intense pain at the time of injury
• Swelling and bruising around the wrist
• Limited movement or weakness in the wrist
• Deformity or visible bending

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger, or stenosing tenosynovitis, is a condition where the tendons in the fingers or thumb become inflamed, causing painful clicking or locking. It often affects people who perform repetitive gripping activities. Treatment options include splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. Severe cases may require surgery to release the affected tendon sheath.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness at the base of the affected finger
• Stiffness and difficulty straightening or bending the finger
• Clicking or popping sensation with movement

More Hand & Wrist Conditions Our Orthopedic Specialists Treat

At Orthopedic Institute, our hand specialists also treat a wide range of other conditions. From fractures to tendon injuries and arthritis, our team provides cutting-edge treatments, including both surgical and non-surgical options:

• Wrist Ligament Injuries: Ligament injuries, like TFCC or scapholunate tears, can limit wrist movement and cause pain on the thumb or pinky side.
• DeQuervain’s Tenosynovitis: This condition, common among new parents or those who perform repetitive thumb movements, causes pain on the thumb side of the wrist.
• Dupuytren’s Contracture: A tightening of tissue under the palm skin that can cause fingers to curl inward over time.
• Hand and Finger Fractures: Fractures in fingers and hands require careful treatment to avoid long-term stiffness or deformity.

Request an Appointment

If hand or wrist pain is affecting your life, contact Orthopedic Institute to schedule an appointment. Our experts are here to provide top-quality care so you can get back to work, hobbies, and everything you enjoy.

Orthopedic Institute Shoulder & Elbow Pain

At Orthopedic Institute, our team of specialized physicians are here to provide personalized care for your shoulder and elbow issues. Whether you are an athlete with a throwing injury or experiencing joint pain from daily activities, our doctors bring extensive experience in diagnosing and treating conditions of the upper extremities. From advanced non-surgical treatments to minimally invasive surgeries, we are committed to helping you return to work, sports, and daily activities as pain-free as possible.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve—the "funny bone" nerve—becomes compressed as it passes through the elbow. This nerve compression can result in numbness, tingling, and sometimes weakness in the hand and fingers.

Symptoms:

• Numbness and tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
• Pins-and-needles sensation in the inner hand or forearm
• Pain or weakness, especially with repeated bending of the elbow

If left untreated, cubital tunnel syndrome may lead to chronic pain and loss of grip strength. Early intervention helps prevent long-term damage and restore functionality.

Distal Biceps Rupture

A distal biceps rupture is a tear in the lower part of the biceps tendon, often caused by lifting heavy objects or catching a falling object. This injury can cause significant weakness and difficulty with arm movements.
Symptoms:

• Sudden “pop” or tearing sensation in the arm
• Change in the shape or contour of the biceps
• Bruising and swelling that extend into the forearm
• Pain and weakness with bending or twisting the arm

Treatment for distal biceps ruptures varies but may involve surgery to reattach the tendon. Without treatment, long-term weakness and reduced arm function are common.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow, leading to pain and stiffness, especially during activities that involve lifting or gripping.
Symptoms:

• Persistent, achy pain on the outer elbow
• Pain when lifting objects or shaking hands
• Weakness in the hand and wrist
• Stiffness in the elbow, particularly after activity

This condition is common in athletes but also affects people who engage in repetitive arm and hand movements. Both surgical and non-surgical treatments can alleviate symptoms and restore strength.

Rotator Cuff Tear

The rotator cuff is a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize the shoulder. Tears in the rotator cuff can occur from injury or wear and tear, causing pain and limited shoulder movement.

Symptoms

• Pain on the outer or top of the shoulder
• Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
• Limited range of motion
• Pain at rest and especially at night

Treatment may involve physical therapy, medications, or surgery depending on the tear's severity. Early treatment can help prevent further damage and improve shoulder function.

Shoulder Arthritis

Shoulder arthritis is a degenerative condition that causes the cartilage in the shoulder joint to wear away, leading to pain and stiffness.

Symptoms:

• Deep ache in the shoulder joint, worsening with activity
• Limited range of motion
• Shoulder pain that intensifies with changes in weather
• Clicking, grinding, or snapping sounds with movement

Treatment options range from medication and physical therapy to shoulder joint replacement in advanced cases. The goal is to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Shoulder Instability & Labral Tears

Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint becomes loose, often due to repeated dislocations or overuse, making it prone to further dislocations. Labral tears can occur due to repetitive shoulder motion or injury.

Symptoms:

• Shoulder slipping in and out of the joint
• Pain during overhead activities
• Popping, grinding, or locking sensations
• Pain that limits everyday activities

Treatment for shoulder instability and labral tears may involve physical therapy or, in more severe cases, surgery to stabilize the joint and repair torn tissue.

Additional Conditions We Treat

In addition to the above conditions, Orthopedic Institute also treats:

• Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)
• Elbow fractures and dislocations
• Elbow ligament injuries, including Tommy John surgery
• Elbow arthritis and osteochondritis dissecans

Orthopedic Institute’s shoulder and elbow specialists are here to help with personalized care tailored to your specific needs. For more details on any condition or to request an appointment, reach out to Orthopedic Institute today.