Introduction
Your hands and wrists are essential for everything from cooking and typing to lifting at work and enjoying sports. When pain, numbness, or loss of motion interferes with daily life, it is important to find a trusted hand and wrist specialist in Dawsonville, GA. At the Dawsonville location of Specialty Orthopaedics, patients receive advanced orthopedic surgery, non-surgical treatment, and excellent care for a wide range of hand and upper extremity conditions.
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a board certified orthopedic specialist and fellowship trained hand surgeon with years of experience treating both simple and complex cases. Many patients say they “highly recommend Dr. Neustein” for his great bedside manner, clear explanations, and professional approach. His Dawsonville office serves patients across Lumpkin, Dawson, and surrounding North Georgia communities, with surgical care performed at nearby hospitals and surgery centers including Gainesville and Johns Creek.
The Importance of Hand and Wrist Health
The human hand contains 27 bones, multiple joints, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. The wrist is formed by eight small bones connected to the forearm, allowing a wide range of motion. Because so many structures are packed into such a small area, even a minor injury can cause joint pain, numbness, or swelling.
Dr. Neustein explained that hand and wrist problems often begin gradually with subtle symptoms, but early treatment helps avoid long-term damage. The Dawsonville office provides medical care that ranges from splints and injections to surgical procedures, helping patients restore function and relieve pain.
Common Hand and Wrist Conditions in Dawsonville GA
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common conditions treated at the Dawsonville location. It develops when the median nerve is compressed by surrounding tendons inside the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness, often worse at night. Dr. Neustein explained that early treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage. Non-surgical options include splints and injections, but advanced cases may require carpal tunnel surgery to relieve pressure.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger occurs when inflammation around a tendon prevents smooth motion, causing the finger to lock or catch. This condition can make everyday activities painful. Patients in Dawsonville often benefit from injections or, if needed, a simple outpatient procedure to release the tendon.
Arthritis of the Hand and Wrist
Arthritis is a frequent cause of pain and stiffness. The CMC joint at the base of the thumb is especially prone to arthritis. Treatment may include splints, medication, or advanced procedures such as joint replacement or fusion. Patients describe great experiences when Dr. Neustein takes the time to explain all treatment options.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Fractures of the wrist, hand, or fingers are common injuries seen at the Dawsonville office. Falls, sports injuries, or accidents often result in broken bones that need careful diagnosis and treatment. Some fractures can be managed with splints, while others require surgical repair. Dr. Neustein is extremely knowledgeable in treating both simple and complex fractures.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Beyond bones, many patients in Dawsonville GA experience soft tissue injuries, including tendon tears, ligament sprains, and nerve problems. Because the hand and wrist contain many blood vessels and delicate nerves, specialized care is required to prevent long-term problems.
Sports Injuries
Athletes frequently visit the Dawsonville office for sports injuries affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. These injuries can be the result of overuse, sudden trauma, or repetitive stress. With fellowship training in upper extremity surgery, Dr. Neustein offers personalized treatment plans to help athletes heal and return to activity.
When to Seek Treatment
Patients should contact the Dawsonville office if they experience:
- Persistent wrist pain
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers
- Joint swelling or stiffness
- Weakness or difficulty gripping
- Deformity after injury
Dr. Neustein explained that early diagnosis often leads to the best course of treatment. By scheduling an appointment today, patients can avoid worsening symptoms and start the healing process sooner.
Diagnosis at the Dawsonville Location
At the Dawsonville office, diagnosis may include:
- Detailed physical examination
- On-site X-rays performed and interpreted the same day
- Ultrasound or MRI for soft tissue injuries
- Nerve studies to assess carpal tunnel syndrome
This thorough approach helps determine whether a patient will benefit most from non-surgical treatment or surgical intervention.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Many patients in Dawsonville GA find relief without surgery. Options include:
- Bracing and splinting
- Physical therapy to restore range of motion
- Anti-inflammatory medicine or injections
- Activity modifications for overuse injuries
- Platelet-rich plasma therapy for tendon healing
These treatments allow patients to heal and return to their normal routines, often without the need for an operation.
Surgical Options at Nearby Surgery Centers and Hospitals
When conservative measures do not provide relief, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Neustein performs surgery at trusted North Georgia hospitals and at local surgery centers convenient for Dawsonville patients. Procedures may include:
- Carpal tunnel release surgery
- Trigger finger release
- Tendon repair after traumatic injury
- CMC joint arthroplasty for arthritis
- Fracture fixation for broken bones
- Elbow and shoulder procedures including upper extremity surgery
Patients frequently remark on the excellent care they receive from Dr. Neustein and his entire surgical staff during the healing process.
The Healing Process and Life After Treatment
Recovery depends on the specific procedure performed, but most patients experience steady improvement in pain, grip strength, and function. Dr. Neustein explained that with professional therapy and consistent follow-up, patients regain motion and return to work, sports, and hobbies.
Patients describe great care from the entire staff, noting that Dr. Neustein is professional, skilled, and one of the best doctors in Dawsonville GA for hand and wrist conditions.
Related Conditions Treated in Dawsonville
In addition to hand and wrist surgery, Dr. Neustein also treats:
- Elbow fractures and joint pain
- Shoulder injuries including rotator cuff problems
- Knee conditions such as meniscus tears
- Overuse injuries in athletes
- Nerve compression syndromes
- Tendon repair after traumatic injuries
This broad expertise in orthopedic surgery allows patients to receive comprehensive care close to home.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Neustein
Patients at the Dawsonville location often say they “highly recommend Dr. Neustein” for several reasons:
- Fellowship trained in hand and upper extremity surgery
- Board certified orthopedic surgeon with years of experience
- Professional, compassionate approach with great bedside manner
- Clear explanations of treatment options so patients understand the best course for their condition
- Skilled surgical techniques performed at trusted hospitals and surgery centers
- Exceptional support from the entire staff at the Dawsonville office
Whether dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, sports injuries, or fractures, patients know they will receive excellent care and great outcomes.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing wrist pain, arthritis, numbness, or injury, do not delay. Contact the Dawsonville office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas Neustein. Early treatment provides the best opportunity to heal, restore function, and prevent long-term damage.
