Introduction
Healthy hands and wrists are essential for everyday life. Whether typing on a keyboard, driving, playing sports, or cooking at home, your hands and wrists are constantly at work. When pain, numbness, or swelling interferes with these daily activities, seeking an experienced hand and wrist specialist in Duluth GA is the best first step toward recovery.
At Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth, Dr. Thomas Neustein provides exceptional care for patients dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, wrist fractures, arthritis pain, and many other conditions. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon fellowship trained in upper extremity surgery, Dr. Neustein combines extensive knowledge with a personalized treatment plan for every patient.
Understanding the Hand and Wrist
The human hand and wrist are complex structures made up of 27 bones, multiple joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. The wrist alone has eight small bones that connect the hand to the forearm, with the median nerve running through the carpal tunnel. Because so many blood vessels, tendons, and nerves are present, even small wrist injuries can cause significant pain or nerve dysfunction.
Orthopedic hand surgeons specialize in diagnosing these problems and determining the root cause of symptoms. By seeking treatment early, patients can often avoid long-term damage and find stress free solutions for returning to a pain free lifestyle.
Common Hand and Wrist Conditions Treated in Duluth GA
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed inside the carpal tunnel, leading to tingling, numbness, weakness, or nerve pain in the fingers. Non-surgical treatment options such as wrist splinting, steroid injections, and activity modification may provide relief. In more severe cases, carpal tunnel release surgery is performed to decompress the nerve and restore nerve function.
Trigger Finger and Trigger Thumb
Trigger finger, including trigger thumb, is caused by irritation of the tendon sheath, leading to painful locking or clicking of the finger. Dr. Neustein provides nonsurgical treatment options such as injections, splints, and physical therapy. When symptoms persist, outpatient trigger finger release surgery or finger release surgery may be recommended to provide long term relief.
Wrist Fractures and Wrist Injuries
Wrist fractures are common after falls or accidents. Proper diagnosis with X-rays or CT scans helps determine whether surgical procedures or casting are needed. Surgical treatment may involve fixation with plates, screws, or pins. The goal is always to restore function and promote full recovery.
Arthritis Pain and CMC Joint Problems
Arthritis of the hand and wrist, including CMC joint arthritis at the base of the thumb, can cause significant pain and loss of function. Orthopedic hand specialists may recommend splints, medications, or surgical procedures such as joint replacement, joint fusion, or joint reconstruction when necessary.
Sports Injuries and Overuse Conditions
Sports injuries such as tennis elbow, ligament tears, and tendon irritation are common reasons patients in Duluth GA seek treatment. Nonsurgical treatment options such as physical therapy, injections, and activity modification often help. When damage is severe, surgical procedures may be necessary to restore strength and mobility.
Diagnosis and When to Seek Treatment
Patients should seek treatment if they experience:
- Numbness or tingling in the hand or wrist
- Persistent joint pain or arthritis pain
- Significant pain after an injury
- Stiffness or loss of motion in the fingers
- Difficulty gripping objects
Diagnosis may include a physical exam, wrist X-rays, CT scans, or nerve studies. By identifying the root cause early, Dr. Neustein can recommend the best treatment options and help patients achieve long term relief.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options in Duluth
Many patients improve without surgery. Nonsurgical treatment options include:
- Wrist splinting or bracing
- Steroid injections to reduce swelling
- Physical therapy for strength and motion
- Activity modification to prevent further injury
- Comprehensive care with medication and lifestyle changes
These methods are often part of a personalized treatment plan designed to improve well being and promote healing without invasive procedures.
Surgical Procedures and Advanced Options
When conservative care does not resolve symptoms, surgical procedures may be required. As an orthopedic hand specialist, Dr. Neustein performs:
- Carpal tunnel release surgery
- Trigger finger release surgery
- Finger release surgery for persistent tendon locking
- Tendon and ligament repair after traumatic injury
- Surgical treatment for wrist fractures
- Joint replacement or joint fusion for advanced arthritis
- Upper extremity surgery for complex injuries
Hand surgeons specialize in restoring function and reducing pain through precise surgical treatment. Patients at the Duluth GA location benefit from advanced orthopedic surgery combined with a professional staff dedicated to excellent outcomes.
Everyday Life After Treatment
Everyday life improves significantly once the correct treatment plan is in place. Patients often find stress free daily routines return as pain decreases and mobility improves. Whether through nonsurgical treatment options or surgical procedures, Dr. Neustein and his professional staff guide patients through the healing process, ensuring well being and full recovery.
With physical therapy, activity modification, and follow-up care, most patients return to work, sports, and hobbies without restrictions. The goal is always to restore comfort, confidence, and independence in everyday life.
Why Choose an Orthopedic Hand Specialist in Duluth GA
Patients choose Dr. Neustein at Specialty Orthopaedics for several reasons:
- Board-certified orthopedic surgeon with fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs
- Comprehensive care including both nonsurgical treatment options and surgical treatment
- Exceptional care from a professional staff committed to your well being
- Convenient Duluth GA location serving North Georgia communities, with access to nearby hospitals and Johns Creek surgery centers
Patients frequently describe their experiences as stress free, professional, and highly effective. Many say they would recommend Dr. Neustein as one of the best doctors for hand and wrist conditions.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing wrist pain, trigger finger, arthritis pain, or other hand and wrist conditions, now is the time to seek treatment. Contact Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth GA today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Neustein. New patients are welcome, and a personalized treatment plan will help you achieve long term relief and return to a pain free, active lifestyle.
