Hand & Wrist Conditions
Below are some of the most common hand and wrist conditions treated by Mr Ross Fawdington,
Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in Hand and Wrist surgery.
Each page explains the typical symptoms, causes, investigations, and treatment options
– from non-surgical management through to advanced surgical techniques.
Select a condition to learn more or book an appointment for assessment.
Base of Thumb
CMCJ Arthritis
Pain and weakness at the base of the thumb is often due to arthritis of the carpo-metacarpal / trapeziometacarpal joint. It can make gripping and twisting difficult. Treatment options include splints, injections, or trapeziectomy surgery to restore comfort and movement.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Tingling, numbness, and hand weakness are caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. It often disturbs patient’s sleep. Early treatment with splints, injections or minor surgery usually relieves symptoms and prevents long-term nerve damage.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Numbness in the ring and little fingers, aching near the elbow, and grip weakness may indicate compression of the ulnar nerve. Simple measures like night splints or surgical decompression can restore comfort and hand control.
De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
Pain on the thumb side of the wrist is often caused by tendon irritation from repetitive movements. Splinting or a steroid injection usually helps; resistant cases may need a surgical release of the inflamed tendons.
Dupuytren’s Contracture
Thickened cords in the palm gradually pull the fingers into a bent position. Treatments include minimally invasive needle release, or limited fasciectomy to straighten the fingers and restore the hand function.
Ganglion
Cyst
A harmless fluid-filled lump around the wrist or hand. It may fluctuate in size or cause mild ache. Most resolve naturally, but aspiration or surgical removal can be offered if it’s painful or persistent.
Scaphoid Fracture / Nonunion
A scaphoid fracture near the base of the thumb can easily be missed on X-ray. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with a cast or screw fixation ensure proper healing and prevent long-term wrist arthritis.
TFCC Tear - Triangular FibroCartilage Complex
Pain, clicking, or weakness on the little-finger side of the wrist may be due to a TFCC tear. Mild cases settle with rest, splinting or an injection; persistent pain can be treated with arthroscopic repair or ulna shortening.
Tendon Injury
(Flexor / Extensor)
Inability to bend or straighten a finger after a cut or injury suggests a tendon rupture. Early surgical repair and hand therapy are essential for full recovery of motion and strength. Some cases can be splinted e.g. mallet finger.
Trigger Finger
(or Thumb)
The finger (or thumb) catches, clicks, or locks when moved. It is caused by a swollen tendon or pulley. A steroid injection often cures it, but surgery may be needed if the finger remains stuck or it recurs.
Wrist Arthritis / Salvage Procedures
Worn cartilage causes aching, stiffness, and reduced wrist motion. Options include splints, injections, or reconstructive surgery such as partial fusion or proximal row carpectomy for lasting relief.
Wrist Fracture
(Distal Radius Fracture)
A break in the wrist bone usually follows a fall onto an outstretched hand. Some fractures heal in a cast; others need fixation to restore alignment and function. Early rehab helps regain movement.
A - Z of Hand & Wrist Conditions
- Base of Thumb CMCJ Arthritis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
- Dupuytren's Contracture
- Ganglion Cyst
- Scaphoid Fracture / Nonunion
- Tendon Injury (Flexor / Extensor)
- TFCC Tear (Triangular FibroCartilage Complex Injury)
- Trigger Finger (or Trigger Thumb)
- Wrist Arthritis / Salvage Procedures
- Wrist Fracture (Distal Radius Fracture)
If you’re experiencing any of these conditions or related symptoms, we can confirm the cause and tailor a plan – often starting with splints/hand therapy and exercises, with medicines, injections or surgery only where appropriate.
This page provides general information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice.
For emergencies (severe/new weakness, spreading infection, uncontrolled pain, significant injury) call 999, or use NHS 111 for urgent guidance.
Appointments:
- Self-pay patients can book without a GP referral
- Insured patients (Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, WPA, etc…) can book once authorised.
Clinics are available at:
- The Harborne Hospital – HCA, Birmingham
- Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital
- The Priory Hospital, Birmingham
To book or ask a question, contact Vikki (Private Secretary):
☎ 07510 417479
✉ [email protected]