A hand doctor is a highly specialized physician dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the upper extremity. These specialists focus on the intricate anatomy from the fingertips through the elbow and shoulder. Hand doctors manage problems related to the bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves, and skin of the upper limb. Their goal is to restore maximum function and strength to this complex area. Seeking care from this specialized field is necessary when an injury or condition significantly impairs the ability to use the hand or wrist effectively.
Training and Specializations
The path to becoming a hand specialist requires extensive training beyond a standard medical degree and general surgery residency. Hand surgery is a recognized sub-specialty drawing practitioners primarily from Orthopedic Surgery and Plastic Surgery. Surgeons from either background must complete a rigorous, accredited residency program before qualifying for further sub-specialized training.
The defining step is the completion of a post-residency fellowship, typically lasting one year. Following the fellowship, qualified hand doctors achieve the Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand. This certification is awarded after passing a comprehensive examination that confirms expertise in hand surgery, indicating specialized knowledge beyond general board certification.
Scope of Practice and Common Conditions
Hand specialists treat a wide range of problems, from sudden, severe injuries to chronic, degenerative conditions. Acute trauma includes fractures of the wrist, hand, and fingers, as well as complex injuries like tendon lacerations and crush injuries. Specialists manage dislocations and deep cuts involving damage to nerves or blood vessels, sometimes requiring microsurgical techniques.
Many patients seek a hand doctor for nerve compression syndromes. The most widely known is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, resulting from the compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome involves the compression of the ulnar nerve, often manifesting as symptoms in the ring and little fingers.
Degenerative and chronic conditions include various forms of arthritis affecting the small joints of the hand and wrist. Hand doctors also treat Dupuytren’s Contracture, where tissue beneath the palm thickens and tightens, causing the fingers to curl inward. They also address congenital issues.
Non-Surgical and Surgical Treatment Approaches
Hand specialists emphasize a comprehensive approach, considering surgery only after conservative measures have failed. Non-surgical options are the first line of defense, aiming to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and promote healing. These approaches include immobilization via splints or braces, and specialized hand therapy, often involving a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT).
Physicians also use medication management and targeted corticosteroid injections to relieve localized inflammation. When non-surgical treatments fail, the hand doctor may recommend an operative procedure.
Surgical goals vary widely, from nerve decompression (like carpal tunnel release) to complex fracture repair. Other procedures include joint replacement for advanced arthritis, or tendon repair and transfer to restore lost movement.
Locating and Vetting a Hand Specialist
Finding a qualified hand specialist often begins with a referral from a primary care physician or an emergency room doctor. Check with your insurance provider for a list of in-network specialists to manage costs. You can also seek recommendations from friends or family who have undergone similar treatment.
When vetting a potential hand doctor, the most important step is to verify their credentials and specialized training. Confirm that the physician is board-certified in their primary field, such as Orthopedic or Plastic Surgery. Look for the Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand, as this confirms the completion of the required fellowship and specialized examination.
Consider the specialist’s experience with your specific condition or required procedure. A hand doctor who performs a particular surgery frequently is likely to offer better outcomes. Specialized certification remains the most objective measure of expertise, though online review sites can provide insight into patient experiences.