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The flexor tendons are crucial for our hand movements and function. However, these can suffer from damage and injuries such as tears or ruptures, which can severely hamper your ability to perform daily tasks. At Pristyn Care, we offer state-of-the-art treatment procedures for flexor tendon repair, offering you a fast and effective recovery. If you're experiencing trouble moving your fingers or thumb, don't delay and contact Pristyn Care to consult with our expert doctors.
The flexor tendons are crucial for our hand movements and function. However, these ... Read More
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The flexor tendons are a part of your hand’s intricate system that enables you to bend and flex your fingers and thumb. These powerful, cord-like tissues connect the muscles in your forearm to the bones in your fingers and thumb. Each finger has two flexor tendons, while the thumb has one. These tendons pass through tunnels at the wrist and fingers, similar to how a bicycle brake cable works.
In the hustle and bustle of life in India, where hands are constantly used in various occupations, sports, or even daily chores, the health of these essential tendons often gets overlooked. Still, any damage to them can result in significant problems with movement and function. Notably, these tendon injuries do not heal on their own due to the cut ends separating because of tension in the tendon.
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Flexor tendon injuries often result from several factors that lead to either tears or wear and tear. Here are some common causes:
If you’re experiencing any discomfort or difficulty in moving your fingers or thumb, it’s vital to consult a doctor immediately to determine if you’ve suffered a flexor tendon injury.
All injuries to the flexor tendon are not the same. They can be broadly classified into two categories:
Recognizing a flexor tendon injury early can vastly improve your chances of full recovery. Watch out for these common signs:
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Suspecting a flexor tendon injury? This is what your doctor might do. Your doctor will first conduct a physical examination, assessing the strength and movement of your hand and fingers. They might manipulate your fingers to gauge the extent of the damage.
Next, imaging tests such as X-rays may be ordered. These are primarily done to rule out possible fractures. Additionally, your doctor may also order an MRI or ultrasound scan. These scans can provide intricate details about the tendon and the surrounding structures. Lastly, if required, your doctor might refer you to a specialist for further consultation.
Treating flexor tendon injuries usually involves surgical intervention, especially for complete tears. Here’s what the treatment process may look like:
Following a structured rehabilitation programme rigorously is crucial for restoring function and preventing complications such as gapping or rupture of the tendon during healing after flexor tendon repair. If you’ve sustained a flexor tendon tear or rupture, don’t ignore it. Timely consultation with your doctor can help you get back on track swiftly and safely.
A flexor tendon injury in the hand is not just a small matter. It’s essential to understand when such an injury might be considered serious. Typically, the seriousness of a flexor tendon injury is assessed based on the following factors:
While it’s not always possible to predict and prevent a flexor tendon tear, you can certainly take steps to mitigate risks. Regular warm-up exercises before partaking in physical activities can help prepare your tendons for exertion. Wearing protective gloves during sports or while handling sharp tools can safeguard your hands against cuts and injuries.
If you are experiencing persistent hand pain or discomfort, don’t disregard it as trivial fatigue. Consult your family doctor for an examination as early detection can help manage a possible flexor tendon rupture effectively.
Flexor tendon injuries are often misunderstood. Let’s dispel some common myths and lay down the facts.
Myths:
Facts:
If you are unable to bend a finger, experience pain or tenderness, or if there are visible wounds on the palm side of your hand, it could indicate a flexor tendon tear. Such symptoms warrant an immediate visit to your family doctor or orthopaedic specialist. Early detection and treatment of a flexor tendon rupture can significantly improve the recovery process.
Diagnosing a flexor tendon tear involves a combination of physical examination and medical imaging. During the physical examination, your doctor will check for pain, swelling, and any limitation in the movement of the finger. In some cases, an X-ray or an MRI scan may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the injury.
A flexor tendon rupture can occur due to violent force, such as a direct blow or sharp cut to the hand. It can also be the result of excessive strain or stress on the tendon due to repetitive movements or overuse. Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes can make your tendons more susceptible to rupture.
If you have trouble bending your finger or feel a sharp pain when you try to do so, it may indicate a flexor tendon injury requiring repair. Other signs include swelling, bruising, inability to grasp objects properly, and a noticeable gap or depression where the tendon has ruptured.
While minor injuries can be managed with rest, ice application and over-the-counter painkillers, serious injuries like a complete tear or rupture require medical intervention. It’s important not to ignore these symptoms as untreated flexor tendon injuries can lead to permanent disability.
Flexor tendon repair is a surgical procedure that involves re-attaching the torn or ruptured tendons using sutures. Depending on the severity of the injury, your doctor may also decide to use grafts from other tendons in your body. The surgery is usually performed under local or general anaesthesia in an operation theatre (OT).
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and your overall health. However, most people regain full function of their hand within 8-12 weeks following surgery. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery to regain strength and flexibility in the fingers.
As with any surgical procedure, flexor tendon repair comes with certain risks. These include infection, nerve damage, stiffness or loss of movement in the finger, and the possibility of the repaired tendon rupturing again. However, such complications are rare and the surgery is generally considered safe and effective.
To prevent a flexor tendon injury, it’s important to use protective gear when playing sports or doing heavy-duty work. Regularly performing hand and wrist exercises can also strengthen your tendons and make them less prone to injury.
