Living with wrist pain can make even simple tasks—typing, gripping, or lifting—a challenge. If you’re searching for an experienced wrist surgeon in Gainesville, GA, Dr. Thomas Neustein offers advanced treatment for patients across North Georgia. A fellowship trained, board certified orthopaedic surgeon, he focuses on hand surgery and upper extremity conditions that affect everyday life.
Understanding the Wrist and Upper Extremity Anatomy
The wrist is a complex joint where the forearm meets the hand. It contains multiple small bones, tendons, and nerves working together to allow motion and strength. Because of this intricate anatomy, problems in the wrist often affect the hand and upper extremity as a whole. When injury occurs, it can lead to numbness, weakness, and swelling that impact the patient’s quality of life.
Common Wrist Conditions Treated in Gainesville
Patients visit Dr. Neustein for many different types of wrist problems, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by pressure on the median nerve inside the wrist space.
- Trigger finger, when a tendon becomes stuck and finger motion is limited.
- Wrist fractures from a fall, sports injury, or accident.
- Osteoarthritis and inflammation that damage the wrist joints.
- Tendon injuries or sprains that lead to pain and limited motion.
- Ulnar nerve compression, which affects sensation in the ring and small fingers.
Other conditions such as elbow tendonitis, shoulder instability, and arthritis in the thumb or finger joints are also commonly treated.
Symptoms That Mean You Should Seek Treatment
You should seek treatment from a hand surgeon if you notice swelling, tingling, weakness, or stiffness that does not improve with rest. Severe cases—like displaced fractures, advanced arthritis, or nerve injuries—require urgent surgical repair to prevent further injury. Waiting too long can allow damage to progress and negatively affect hand function.
Expert Diagnosis by a Gainesville Wrist Specialist
As a fellowship trained orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Neustein carefully evaluates the wrist, hand, and upper extremity. Imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to determine the exact source of pain. Identifying whether symptoms occur in the wrist, elbow, or forearm ensures patients receive accurate diagnosis and treatment options tailored to their needs.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Not all patients require surgery. Dr. Neustein and his team often recommend conservative care first, including:
- Splints or braces to rest the wrist and prevent further tissue irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain.
- Steroid injections to relieve inflammation around tendons or nerves.
- Physical therapy to restore motion, improve range, and strengthen supporting muscles.
For many Gainesville patients, these treatments provide significant relief and delay the need for surgery.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary
In some cases, hand surgery or wrist surgery is the best way to restore function. Carpal tunnel release is performed when pressure on the median nerve does not improve with conservative measures. Surgical repair of fractures, ligament reconstruction, and tendon procedures may also be required. Dr. Neustein specializes in minimally invasive techniques that promote quicker recovery and less scarring.
Recovery and Motion After Surgery
Every procedure is different, but most patients notice gradual improvement in pain and motion as healing occurs. A splint or brace may be used temporarily. Therapy helps patients regain strength and restore full range of motion. For arthritis or tendon injuries, recovery can take weeks, but successful surgical treatment greatly improves long-term life quality.
Preventing Further Injury
Preventing recurrence is just as important as treatment. Patients are encouraged to use protective braces during sports, avoid repetitive strain, and follow therapy exercises. Early treatment is the key to preventing further injury and preserving hand and upper extremity function.
Treating Related Upper Extremity Conditions
In addition to wrist procedures, Dr. Neustein provides orthopaedic surgery for other upper extremity conditions, including elbow tendon injuries, shoulder pain, and arthritis affecting the finger and thumb joints. Having one doctor who treats the full spectrum of hand and upper extremity conditions gives patients consistent, comprehensive care.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein in Gainesville
Dr. Neustein earned his medical degree from Mercer University School of Medicine and completed fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery. As a board certified orthopaedic surgeon, he brings advanced knowledge to Gainesville patients seeking treatment. His personalized care plans, surgical skill, and dedication to improving patients’ quality of life make him a trusted choice among hand specialists in North Georgia.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you are struggling with wrist pain, numbness, or limited motion, it may be time to see a Gainesville wrist surgeon. Don’t let an untreated injury affect your daily life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn about the treatment options available for you.
