Hand Surgeon in Merced, CA

At the Regional Hand Center, our team of orthopedic hand surgeons is dedicated to providing compassionate care and expert treatment for patients seeking non-surgical or surgical hand treatments in Merced and the surrounding areas of Central California. We specialize in a variety of wrist, hand, and arm treatments to repair damage resulting from injuries or medical conditions.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that commonly develop near joints or tendons in the wrist and fingers. While these cysts can sometimes resolve on their own, they may cause discomfort or restrict movement, prompting patients to seek treatment. Non-surgical treatment typically involves aspirating the cyst with a syringe to drain its contents, while surgical cyst removal or ganglion cyst excision in Merced may be necessary for larger or persistent cysts. 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, often referred to as the “funny bone” nerve, becomes compressed at the elbow. This condition can lead to tingling, numbness, or weakness in the forearm and outer fingers. One common cause of cubital tunnel syndrome is the pressure placed on the nerve during sleep, which may be alleviated by wearing a foam arm brace at night. If symptoms persist, surgery may be needed to relocate the nerve to the front of the elbow or remove small pieces of bone that are compressing it. 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by prolonged pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly the outer fingers (thumb, index, and middle fingers). Initial treatment options may include anti-inflammatory medications, wrist splints, and steroid injections to reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. If symptoms persist or worsen, surgical endoscopic carpal tunnel release in Merced may be recommended to address the underlying issue and restore nerve function.

Wrist Pain

Wrist pain can stem from various conditions, including fractures, inflammation, cysts, or arthritis. The specific cause of wrist pain can vary widely, and the location of discomfort often provides clues about the underlying issue. Treatment may start with anti-inflammatory medications, splints, or steroid injections but if pain persists, our experienced hand surgeons can perform surgical procedures to address the root cause of the pain and restore mobility.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Tennis elbow is a condition that affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. While it is often associated with tennis players, this condition can occur in anyone as the result of frequent gripping or lifting. Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outer elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. A brace or splint can be used to relieve tension along with physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles. If symptoms persist, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons.

Fingertip Injuries

Fingertip injuries are common and can involve a range of issues, including blunt force trauma, lacerations, torn nails, tendon injuries, and fractures. Given the complexity of the structures in the fingers, it is essential to consult a hand specialist for proper evaluation and treatment. Depending on the severity of the injury, non-surgical realignment or splinting may be recommended but more severe fractures or ligament tears will require surgery. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary, but our goal is always to preserve the fingers and maintain full hand function.

Forearm Fractures

The forearm consists of two long bones, the radius and ulna, which can be fractured due to trauma, falls, or accidents. A fracture in one or both of these bones can significantly limit the mobility of the arm, hand, and wrist. Our hand surgeons are skilled in treating forearm fractures in both adults and children. While some fractures can be managed with a cast, more complex fractures may require surgical intervention to properly realign the bones and restore function. 

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Common symptoms include a locking or popping sensation when attempting to extend the affected finger and stiffness or loss of mobility. Early intervention is key and initial treatment options include steroid injections, physical therapy, or splinting at night. If these methods are ineffective, surgical trigger finger release in Merced may be performed to alleviate the locking mechanism and restore mobility

Nerve and Tendon Injuries

Nerves and tendons are vital for hand and wrist mobility, as they facilitate movement and sensation. Injuries to these structures can significantly impact hand function. While mild nerve injuries may sometimes heal without surgical intervention, tendon injuries typically require surgical repair, as tendons do not have the capacity to heal on their own. Our experienced team is equipped to assess the extent of nerve and tendon injuries and provide appropriate surgical solutions to restore function and mobility.

Wrist or Hand Fractures

Fractures in the wrist and hand can occur due to various incidents, including falls, sports injuries, or car accidents. Hand and wrist fracture repair in Merced varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Stable fractures, where the bone remains aligned, can often be treated with a cast or splint. However, compound fractures or comminuted fractures resulting from crush injuries or trauma may require surgical intervention to realign the bone. 

De Quervain’s Syndrome

De Quervain’s syndrome is characterized by pain and swelling at the base of the thumb, resulting from irritation of the tendons that control thumb movement. This condition often occurs when the tunnel through which the tendons pass becomes narrowed or the tendons become inflamed. Treatment typically begins with conservative measures, such as splinting and anti-inflammatory medications. If symptoms persist, De Quervain’s release surgery in Merced can be performed to alleviate pressure and provide long-term relief.

Sports Injuries

Sports injuries encompass a wide range of hand and wrist conditions, including fractures, sprains, dislocation, and ligament tears. At your first appointment, we will assess the injured area, provide a diagnosis (which may require an X-ray), and offer treatment options. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve recovery outcomes and minimize the risk of long-term complications. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for sports injuries in Merced, helping athletes return to their activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Merced, California

Merced is a city in Merced County, CA, located in the San Joaquin Valley, an agricultural hub in Central California. Merced is one of the gateways to Yosemite National Valley and has a regional airport that tourists can fly into. Within the city, residents and visitors can enjoy a day at Merced’s Applegate Park Zoo, hike in the nearby parks, or spend time in the bustling downtown area.