Did you know that hand and wrist injuries affect approximately 25% of the population annually, as noted by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand? Whether you're dealing with pain from repetitive stress, recovering from a traumatic injury, or facing chronic conditions like arthritis, seeking specialized care can be a crucial step toward recovery.
At The Center for Bone and Joint Disease, we are proud to be a trusted provider of orthopedic care in the Tampa Bay region. Our experienced hand specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions affecting the hands, wrists, and upper extremities. From advanced diagnostics to personalized treatment plans, we're here to support you in regaining function and improving your quality of life. Schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward feeling better.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what you can expect during your first visit to a hand specialist and how to make the most of your appointment.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Your first visit with an orthopedic hand surgeon near me will start with a thorough evaluation of your concerns. The specialist will review your medical history, ask about your symptoms, and conduct a physical examination of your hand, wrist, or arm. This detailed assessment helps the surgeon understand the extent of your discomfort, mobility issues, or injury, ensuring they can recommend the best course of treatment.
Whether you're dealing with a sports medicine-related injury, need hand surgery for a more serious condition, or simply want to ease your daily discomfort, this step is essential to creating an effective plan. While you may have to wait for test results or additional imaging, this careful process ensures the right decisions are made. For example, some conditions may only require physical therapy, while others may need more advanced interventions like surgery to restore full function.
Diagnostic Imaging, If Needed
To better understand your condition, an orthopedic surgeon may recommend diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds. These advanced tools help identify underlying issues like fractures, ligament injuries, or arthritis that might not be evident during a physical exam. If you're a new patient looking to find the right care, these diagnostic steps are essential in creating a personalized treatment plan to get you back to feeling your best.
Personalized Treatment Plan
After thoroughly evaluating your condition, your specialist will review their findings with you and recommend a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Depending on the severity of your condition, this plan may include options such as physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgical interventions. For example, if you’re experiencing issues related to orthopedic spine surgery, ankle surgery, foot pain, or shoulder injuries, your specialist will guide you through the most effective solutions. You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and explore the best treatment path, ensuring a comprehensive approach to restoring mobility and improving your quality of life.
Electromyography (EMG)
An EMG, often performed in a doctor’s suite, measures the electrical activity in your muscles to assess their health and function. It’s a crucial test for identifying muscle damage or dysfunction caused by nerve issues, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or nerve compression. By diagnosing these problems early, an EMG can help your doctor recommend treatment plans to prevent further complications and improve your quality of life. Discussing your symptoms thoroughly with your doctor ensures the test addresses all potential concerns.
Nerve Conduction Study
The Nerve Conduction Study evaluates how efficiently your nerves transmit signals to your muscles, providing valuable insight for physicians diagnosing various conditions. By identifying the specific areas of nerve damage, it helps determine the severity and location of the issue. This is especially important in diagnosing symptoms like numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness, allowing physicians to develop targeted treatment plans for affected areas.
Your Comfort is Our Priority
At The Center for Bone and Joint Disease, patient care is at the heart of what we do. Our dedicated team focuses on creating a welcoming environment while addressing your concerns with compassion and expertise. We understand that dealing with hand and wrist pain can be challenging, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Taking the first step toward relief and recovery is easy. Schedule an appointment with The Center for Bone and Joint Disease today, and discover treatment options tailored to your orthopedic care needs. Together, we’ll help you regain functionality, reduce pain, and restore your quality of life. Contact us now to begin your journey to better hand health!
