Introduction: Why Hand Health Matters
Our hands, wrists, and shoulders are vital to almost every part of everyday life. Whether it’s typing on a computer, cooking dinner, lifting groceries, or holding a child, the ability to move without pain gives us independence and confidence. When hand issues arise—such as stiffness, arthritis pain, or nerve pain—they can make even the simplest tasks difficult. For patients in Duluth, GA, Dr. Thomas Neustein, a board-certified hand surgeon, provides expert diagnosis and treatment plans designed to restore motion, reduce discomfort, and improve well-being.
What an Orthopedic Hand Surgeon Does
Orthopedic hand surgeons specialize in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder. With a medical degree, fellowship training, and years of surgical experience, Dr. Neustein combines advanced orthopedic care with compassionate patient support. His professional staff and team ensure that each patient receives individualized attention and treatment, whether the issue is a minor injury or a complex surgical procedure.
Common Hand and Wrist Conditions Treated in Duluth
Patients in Georgia often visit our Duluth office with a wide range of hand issues. Some are caused by overuse, others by arthritis, inflammation, or accident-related injuries. The most common conditions we diagnose and treat include:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed, leading to numbness, tingling, and significant pain in the fingers and hand. This nerve pain often worsens at night or while typing. If left untreated, carpal tunnel can cause long-term nerve damage.
Trigger Finger
Trigger finger happens when a tendon in the finger becomes inflamed, making it difficult to bend or straighten normally. Patients often feel stiffness, clicking, or even locking of the fingers. Trigger finger release surgery is a simple procedure that restores normal motion.
Tennis Elbow
Despite the name, tennis elbow is not limited to athletes. It results from overuse of the tendons in the elbow, leading to discomfort that radiates down into the wrist and hand. Patients may experience pain when gripping objects or lifting items at work.
Arthritis Pain
Arthritis of the hand, wrist, or shoulder leads to swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Arthritis pain can make everyday life tasks—like opening jars or writing—extremely challenging. Orthopedic surgery may be considered if conservative treatments fail.
Fractures and Injuries
Accidents, sports injuries, or falls can cause fractures of the wrist, fingers, or hand. These injuries require timely diagnosis and treatment to restore joint alignment and prevent long-term stiffness. Our physicians use X-rays and advanced imaging to diagnose fractures accurately.
Nerve Pain and Tingling
Compression of nerves in the wrist, elbow, or shoulder can lead to tingling, numbness, or burning sensations. Conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome or carpal tunnel often cause these symptoms. Early diagnosis is key to preventing permanent nerve damage.
Symptoms That Should Prompt You to Seek Treatment
Many patients ignore early symptoms, assuming they will resolve on their own. However, untreated hand and wrist problems often worsen over time. You should seek treatment if you experience:
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers or wrist
- Stiffness or swelling in the joints
- Discomfort when gripping or lifting objects
- Reduced range of motion in the shoulder or wrist
- Pain that interferes with sleep or daily activities
- Injury from an accident that leads to ongoing pain
These warning signs may indicate an underlying condition requiring medical attention.
Diagnosing the Root Cause of Hand Issues
An accurate diagnosis leads to effective treatment. At our Duluth office, Dr. Neustein performs a thorough physical exam, reviews patient history, and orders imaging such as X-rays, MRI scans, or nerve studies. This comprehensive approach ensures that the treatment plan addresses the true root cause of symptoms rather than just masking discomfort.
Non-Surgical Treatments: Restoring Comfort Without Surgery
Not every patient requires hand surgery. Many conditions improve with conservative measures, including:
- Physical therapy: Restores motion, improves strength, and reduces discomfort.
- Bracing and splinting: Stabilizes joints and tendons during healing.
- Activity modification: Avoiding repetitive stress to allow tendons and nerves to recover.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications relieve swelling and stiffness.
These treatments help patients return to normal daily routines while avoiding the risks of surgical procedures.
Surgical Procedures: When Surgery Is the Best Option
If conservative care does not relieve pain, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Neustein offers advanced surgical procedures, including:
- Carpal tunnel release
- Trigger finger release
- Fracture fixation and repair
- Tendon repair and reconstruction
- Joint arthroplasty for arthritis
- Nerve decompression procedures
Each procedure is carefully tailored to the patient’s diagnosis, level of discomfort, and personal goals.
What to Expect From Orthopedic Surgery
Many patients feel anxious before surgery, but understanding the process helps ease concerns. At Specialty Orthopaedics in Duluth:
- Most surgeries are outpatient, allowing patients to return home the same day.
- Professional staff guides patients through pre-operative preparation, insurance approvals, and post-surgical care.
- Risks such as infection, swelling, or stiffness are discussed, and every effort is made to ensure safe healing.
- A clear recovery timeline is provided so patients know what to expect at each stage.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: Returning to Everyday Life
Recovery is just as important as the procedure itself. Patients typically follow a structured rehabilitation plan that includes physical therapy, home exercises, and follow-up visits.
- Early Recovery: Focus on reducing swelling, preventing stiffness, and protecting surgical sites.
- Intermediate Recovery: Regain range of motion, rebuild strength, and address lingering discomfort.
- Full Recovery: Patients return to work, sports, and family activities with confidence and independence.
Our goal is always a full recovery and a pain-free lifestyle.
Everyday Life After Treatment
Life after treatment is about more than just healing—it’s about returning to the activities that matter most. Patients frequently report:
- Better sleep without numbness or tingling
- Improved ability to perform daily tasks like cooking and driving
- Confidence at work with restored hand and wrist strength
- Freedom to enjoy hobbies such as gardening, golf, or tennis
- Renewed independence and well-being
With the right treatment plan, patients can expect to lead a more active and fulfilling life.
Other Hand, Wrist, and Shoulder Conditions Treated
Dr. Neustein and his team are committed to providing comprehensive orthopedic care. In addition to the conditions above, patients often visit our Duluth office for:
- Shoulder tendon injuries
- Elbow inflammation
- Infections requiring surgical cleaning
- Dislocations and sprains
- Chronic stiffness or limited motion
No matter the diagnosis, each patient receives the same high standard of care.
Why Patients in Georgia Recommend Dr. Neustein
Patients consistently recommend Dr. Neustein for his combination of advanced training, skilled surgical procedures, and personal commitment to patient care. With a strong background from university-level training and years of hospital experience, he offers the expertise of a leading orthopedic hand surgeon close to home. His professional staff ensures that every patient is treated with compassion, dignity, and respect.
Insurance and Patient Support
Our Duluth office works with most major insurance providers, helping patients access care without unnecessary stress. Our team assists with paperwork, fax submissions, and direct communication with insurance representatives, ensuring patients can focus on healing instead of logistics.
Our Commitment to Healing and Well-Being
Dr. Neustein and his team are committed to helping patients heal and regain confidence in their ability to use their hands, wrists, and shoulders. By diagnosing problems early, treating them effectively, and supporting recovery, our goal is to lead every patient back to a healthier, pain-free life.
When to Seek Treatment
If you are experiencing ongoing pain, numbness, swelling, or stiffness, do not delay. Early treatment prevents long-term complications and increases the likelihood of a full recovery. Whether the root cause is arthritis, nerve compression, or an accident-related fracture, Dr. Neustein is here to help patients in Duluth and across Georgia.
Call to Action
Your hands are essential to your quality of life. If you are struggling with discomfort, reduced motion, or significant pain, trust Dr. Thomas Neustein and his team to provide expert orthopedic care. Schedule an appointment today at our Duluth office and begin your journey toward recovery.
