Our hands and wrists are put to work every day. So, when pain strikes from injury, overuse, or arthritis, it can disrupt everything we do. This August, OSCW’s expert hand and wrist specialists are here with expert guidance and compassionate care to help you stay active, comfortable, and pain-free.
Common Hand & Wrist Conditions & How OSCW Helps
Hand and wrist pain can stem from a variety of conditions, and at Orthopedic & Spine Centers of Wisconsin (OSCW), our specialists take a comprehensive, individualized approach to diagnosis and treatment. Carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by compression of the median nerve, can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. In some cases, it can also lead to muscle loss at the base of the thumb. Non-surgical treatments often include wrist splints and injections, while surgery may be recommended for persistent cases.
Arthritis of the hand and wrist involves joint degeneration, resulting in pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced grip, and loss of function. Diagnosis is confirmed through imaging and examination, and treatment options range from medications, splints, and occupational therapy to joint fusion or replacement in more advanced cases.
Tendonitis and repetitive strain injuries, often caused by overuse or awkward postures, present with dull aches, tenderness, and limited motion. Typically these are managed through rest, ice, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, and in some cases, corticosteroid or injections. Using both non-surgical solutions and advanced arthroscopic procedures, OSCW also treats other upper extremity nerve injuries, ganglion cysts, trigger finger, and wrist and hand fractures in pediatric and adult patients.
Meet Your OSCW Specialists
At OSCW, our Board Certified and Fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeons provide deep expertise and personalized care to every patient.
Dr. Brian M. Christie, MD, MPH, is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity treating conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trigger finger, fractures, and tendon or ligament injuries. He emphasizes minimally invasive, patient-centered treatment strategies with a particular interest in complex and revision surgery.
Dr. James S. Dahm, MD, is a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon specializing in upper extremity and microsurgery. His clinical expertise includes a focus on trauma, arthritis, nerve injuries, tendon and ligament disorders, and complex revision procedures.
Together, they – and the rest of OSCW’s hand and wrist care team deliver exceptional outcomes using cutting-edge techniques, from non-surgical therapies to advanced arthroscopic procedures.
Expert Advice: When to See a Specialist
If you experience any of the following, OSCW recommends scheduling an evaluation:
- Persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or fingers
- Pain or swelling that interferes with everyday tasks
- Grinding, clicking, loss of grip, or joint deformity
- Symptoms that don’t improve with rest or basic interventions
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes, and many conditions respond well to non-surgical therapies.
Prevention & Self-Care Tips
To keep your hands and wrists healthy this August:
- Ergonomics: Use supportive tools and maintain neutral wrist positioning. Take frequent breaks.
- Stretching & Strengthening: Gentle finger, thumb, and wrist stretches help build resilience.
- Supportive Gear: Wear wrist splints or braces as needed, especially at night.
- Early Treatment: Rest, ice, NSAIDs, or splinting can ease early symptoms—don’t wait to act.
OSCW’s physical and occupational therapy team offers specialized hand rehab using exercises, custom splinting, and adaptive strategies to reduce pain and improve function.
Ready to Get Started?
OSCW offers appointments within 24 hours, ensuring prompt care. Whether you’re dealing with mild stiffness or a persistent injury, our expert team is here to help.
If you’re experiencing persistent low back pain, call the Orthopedic and Spine Centers of Wisconsin at (608) 234-7436 to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists.
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