How Should I Deal with a Work-Related Hand Injury?

In the course of performing regular job duties, it is unfortunately common for an employee to sustain a work-related hand injury. From hand fractures to finger injuries, this type of trauma can have a profound effect on the ability to earn wages and maintain job security. In the most serious cases, work-related hand injuries can prevent employees from performing their usual tasks without proper medical treatment and recovery.

What are Some Examples of Work-Related Hand Injuries?

In the workplace, employees are often asked to perform the same task over and over again. This type of repetition can produce negative effects on the hand, fingers, and wrist, especially in the absence of adequate breaks or rest. This type of overuse can lead to a number of work-related hand injuries, including but not limited to:

• Carpal Tunnel — This condition develops due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist. Carpal tunnel can result in tingling, numbness, or fatigue in the hand or wrist.
• Hand Tendonitis — This condition arises when there is inflammation or swelling in the tendons of the hand, wrist, or fingers. Tendonitis symptoms often include gradual pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Trigger Finger — This condition evolves from inflammation in the fingers or thumb, preventing full range of motion. Trigger finger symptoms traditionally include painful catching, swelling, or popping when attempting to bend or straighten the fingers or thumb.
• Thumb Arthritis — This condition originates from deterioration of the cartilage that connects the thumb to the wrist. Thumb arthritis can result in acute or dull pain and weakness or limited range of motion.

How Can I Treat a Work-Related Hand Injury?

As work-related hand injuries come in many shapes and sizes, it is difficult to isolate a single method that will work for every type of condition. In most cases — especially those involving fractures and sustained tendonitis or arthritis — self treatment is not a viable substitute for professional care.

In order to engage in proper treatment of a work-related hand injury, a qualified doctor should conduct a full examination. Only after such an examination is it proper to assess treatment options, which could include simple steps like medication and rest. Though in many cases, hand injuries require more advanced treatment, such as immobilization or even surgery.

Do You Need Medical Help for a Work-Related Hand Injury?

If you sustained a hand injury while performing work duties, it can be extremely beneficial to consult with an established hand surgeon. At Midwest Hand Surgery, our professionals have many qualifications in the arena of hand and wrist injuries, including those stemming from work-related accidents.

Additionally, Midwest Hand Surgery features an on-site surgical suite. That way, our patients can go to one location to see their doctor, undergo testing, and go through treatment. If you need medical help for this type of injury, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.

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