Tendon Injuries
Tendons connect the muscles to bones. When the tendons in the hand are cut or torn, it can be difficult to bend or move the fingers.
At a Glance
A complete tear will not heal on its own
Diagnosed during a physical examination
An x-ray may confirm the diagnosis
A splint helps the tendon heal after surgery
Tendinitis (Tendonitis)
Tendinitis, also spelled tendonitis, is irritation and inflammation of a tendon, often from repetitive motion or overuse. In the hand and wrist it can cause pain, swelling and stiffness, as with De Quervain’s tendinitis at the base of the thumb.
Treatment often starts with rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medication and hand therapy. A steroid injection can relieve pain and swelling, and surgery may help when symptoms don’t improve. Dr. Rubinstein can find the cause of your pain and build the right treatment plan.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis
Dr. Rubinstein can diagnose tendon injuries during a physical examination and may order an x-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
Tendon Surgery
In most cases, tendon surgery is needed to repair damaged tendons. It is an outpatient procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a torn tendon in the hand heal on its own?
A complete tear will not heal on its own. In most cases, tendon surgery is needed to repair damaged tendons. It is an outpatient procedure, and a splint helps the tendon heal after surgery.
How are tendon injuries diagnosed?
Dr. Rubinstein can diagnose tendon injuries during a physical examination and may order an x-ray to confirm the diagnosis.
What is tendinitis (tendonitis)?
Tendinitis, also spelled tendonitis, is irritation and inflammation of a tendon, often from repetitive motion or overuse. In the hand and wrist it can cause pain, swelling and stiffness, as with De Quervain's tendinitis at the base of the thumb.
How is tendinitis treated?
Treatment often starts with rest, splinting, anti-inflammatory medication and hand therapy. A steroid injection can relieve pain and swelling, and surgery may help when symptoms don't improve.
Related Procedures
Fractures, Dislocations & Trauma
Diagnosis and treatment for broken bones and injuries of the hand.
Extremity Reconstruction
Repairing the arms, hands, legs and feet after injury or disease.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Numbness or tingling in the hand or wrist caused by a compressed median nerve.
Ready to Talk With Dr. Rubinstein?
Call our Thousand Oaks office or send us a message to request a consultation.