Tendons and ligaments are the vital connective tissues that allow our hands to move with incredible precision and strength. A hand tendon and ligament injury can be a result of trauma, overuse, or a sudden accident. When these tissues are damaged, it can lead to significant pain, weakness, and loss of function in the hand and fingers.
 

What are the symptoms of tendon and ligament injury?
 

Symptoms of a hand tendon or ligament injury vary depending on the location and severity of the damage, but often include:

• Sudden, sharp pain: Especially at the time of injury.

• Swelling and bruising: Rapid swelling around the affected joint.

• Inability to move: A ruptured tendon or a torn ligament can prevent a finger or joint from bending or straightening.

• Limited motion: Stiffness or a reduced range of motion.

 

How are tendon and ligament injuries diagnosed?

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A precise diagnosis is critical for a successful recovery. Hand specialist, Mr Shyamalan, will conduct a thorough physical examination to test the strength and function of your tendons and ligaments. He will ask you to perform specific movements to identify which tissues are damaged. In many cases, an ultrasound or MRI scan may be used to provide a clear picture of the injury and guide the treatment plan.

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How are tendon and ligament injuries treated?

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The treatment for a hand tendon injury or a damaged ligament depends on the extent of the damage.

• Non-surgical treatments: For minor injuries, a splint or cast can be used to immobilise the area and allow the tissue to heal naturally.

• Surgical repair: For more significant tears or ruptures, surgical intervention is often required. Hand surgeon, Mr Shyamalan, will repair the damaged tendon or ligament, restoring its function. Timely repair is crucial for the best possible outcome.

 

Common hand tendon and ligament injuries:

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Thumb ligament tears

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The thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a ligament between the base of the thumb and index finger. It can become damaged if the thumb is suddenly forced away from your hand and is most commonly seen people who play football, and netball and those who go skiing.

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Skier's thumb is a common thumb ligament injury injury. It is commonly caused by an outward force on the thumb, such as when a skier falls and grabs the ski pole.

 

The injury is characterised by pain and swelling in the thumb joint and can range from mild to severe. It is important for skiers to recognise the signs and symptoms of skier's thumb so that they can seek medical attention as soon as possible.

 

Treatment for skier's thumb usually involves immobilisation of the thumb and splinting, followed by physiotherapy to ensure the thumb regains full range of motion.

 

If the injury is severe, surgery may be necessary.

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Hand tendon injuries

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The flexor tendons run along the forearm to the fingers along the palm and allows you to bend your fingers and grip things.

 

The extensor tendons run alongside the forearm to the fingers along the back of the hand and allow you to straighten and stretch your fingers. They can often be injured playing sports like rugby or by overusing the grip in sports such as bouldering and rock climbing. 

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You may need surgery to repair damaged tendons to enable your orthopaedic hand surgeon to stitch the tendons back together. 

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Tendonitis

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Tendonitis is another injury resulting from overuse which results in inflammation, and swelling in the tendon which results in pain.

 

The pain may be reduced with rest, and use of anti-inflammatories. If they do not help then steroid injections or surgery to remove the damaged tendon may more suited.

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De Quervain’s tendonitis

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De Quervain's is when the tendons the connects the forearm to the thumb is inflamed and painful. It may be seen more in activities that involve a grip such as golf and tennis.

 

You may be advised to carry out exercises to help strengthen the muscle. If the pain persists you may be offered decompression surgery to create more space the tendon to move. 

 

Seek expert care for your hand injury

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If you have suffered a hand injury, it's essential to seek help from a specialist with extensive experience in hand, elbow and shoulder surgery. As a leading hand surgeon in the West Midlands, Mr Shyamalan is a consultant hand and elbow surgeon who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of complex hand injuries.

 

Book a consultation at Midland Hand Clinic today to get the expert care you need.