Nerve damage in the hand can significantly impact daily activities. The hand’s nerves control sensation, movement, and coordination. Understanding which medical professionals treat these injuries is essential for effective recovery and regaining function.
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
When symptoms of nerve damage in the hand first appear, such as tingling, numbness, or weakness, consult a primary care physician. This doctor conducts a preliminary evaluation, reviews medical history, and performs a physical examination of the hand and arm. They determine the need for specialized care and provide referrals.
Following this assessment, a neurologist typically diagnoses nerve damage. Neurologists specialize in nervous system conditions and use specific diagnostic tools to assess nerve function. They commonly perform nerve conduction studies (NCS), which measure electrical signal speed through nerves. These tests identify the location and severity of nerve compression or injury.
Electromyography (EMG) is often performed with NCS to evaluate muscle electrical activity. This test helps determine if muscle weakness stems from a nerve problem or a muscle disorder. The neurologist’s physical examination assesses sensory changes, muscle strength, and reflexes in the affected hand. These diagnostic methods provide a comprehensive picture of the nerve damage, guiding treatment decisions.
Surgical Treatment Specialists
For nerve damage requiring surgery, specialized surgeons address these conditions in the hand. Orthopedic surgeons with a hand surgery sub-specialty frequently treat nerve injuries. They focus on the hand and wrist’s musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, and nerves. They often perform nerve decompression procedures, such as relieving pressure on a compressed nerve in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Plastic surgeons also treat hand nerve damage, especially those with microsurgery expertise. Their training allows them to work with tiny structures, performing delicate nerve repair and nerve grafting. Nerve repair reconnects severed nerve ends, while nerve grafting uses a nerve segment from another body part to bridge a damaged nerve gap.
These surgical specialists restore nerve function by freeing compressed nerves or reconstructing damaged ones. Decompression surgeries, like carpal tunnel release, are common for pinched nerves. More complex cases may involve direct nerve repair or using nerve conduits or grafts to facilitate regeneration, aiming to restore sensation and muscle control.
Non-Surgical Care and Rehabilitation
Beyond surgery, various medical professionals and therapists contribute to non-surgical management and rehabilitation of hand nerve damage. Physiatrists, or physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, specialize in restoring function and improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities or injuries. They often coordinate comprehensive non-surgical treatment plans, including medication management for nerve pain and referrals to therapists.
Neurologists remain involved in non-surgical care, especially for managing chronic nerve pain or conditions not requiring immediate surgery. They prescribe medications to alleviate neuropathic pain and monitor nerve recovery. Their ongoing assessment helps determine the effectiveness of non-surgical approaches and guides treatment plan adjustments.
Physical therapists are integral to rehabilitation, improving hand strength, range of motion, and dexterity. They use techniques like targeted exercises to promote nerve gliding and prevent scar tissue around healing nerves. Occupational therapists help individuals regain daily activity performance. They teach adaptive strategies, provide custom splints to protect healing nerves, and implement sensory re-education to retrain the brain’s interpretation of hand sensory input.
Knowing When to Get Help
Recognizing signs of hand nerve damage and seeking timely medical attention prevents complications and improves recovery. Common symptoms include persistent numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” feeling in the fingers or hand. Muscle weakness, difficulty gripping objects, or noticeable loss of hand strength are also indicators.
Burning pain, diminished touch, or inability to distinguish between hot and cold in the hand can signal nerve involvement. These symptoms might indicate conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, or other nerve compression or injury. Early intervention is important for sudden onset or rapidly worsening symptoms, as delaying treatment can lead to irreversible nerve damage. Prompt consultation with a healthcare professional ensures proper diagnosis and treatment.
Citations
Hand surgeon. American Society for Surgery of the Hand. Retrieved August 24, 2025, from https://www.assh.org/handcare/Find-a-Hand-Surgeon/Hand-Surgeon.