Conditions We Treat
Because the hand and upper extremity are so important to us, getting the right treatment for a problem or injury is critical. Since we specialize in these problems we can provide the newest and best treatment to you in Providence, RI, whatever the problem is.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This is certainly one of the more common problems we see, It usually presents as numbness and tingling in the hand, particularly at night. The workup includes your history (more common in diabetic patients). X-rays (looking for injuries), and a nerve test, or EMG, performed by a neurologist. Splints made for you will greatly reduce nighttime symptoms.
If it is caused by repetitive work, such as typing, modifying your workstation may help. Therapy and injections are effective but temporary. Dr. Hubbard introduced Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release surgery into southern New England in 1992. This revolutionized this surgical procedure, by using a TV camera to look inside the hand and release the ligament without a big incision in the palm. With less pain, and starting to use the hand the next day, patients return to their activities 50% faster than previously.
This innovative approach is an example of how we can apply newer and better Technology to resolve your problem as quickly as possible. Below are some other examples of problems we see in our office, and how they are treated. For more information click on the problem. You will be directed to the Patient Information Page of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, the most prestigious organization in the world for this specialty. (Dr. Hubbard has been a member since 1984.)
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: numbness and/or pain in the thumb, index, long, and ring fingers at night, or using the hand
- Ulnar Nerve Transposition: numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers
- Fractures of the hand, wrist, or arm
- Dupuytren’s Contracture: a cord which forms in the hand limiting your ability to straighten the finger fully
- Trigger Finger: locking, sticking, or pain on bending and straightening the finger
- Arthritis of the hand or wrist, including basal joint arthritis: slowly progressing pain and limitation of motion which occurs with age or injury
- Cartilage tears in the wrist: pain in the wrist on the little finger side
- Shoulder tendinitis or rotator cuff tears: pain in the shoulder which limits motion, often worse at night
- Ganglion cysts of the fingers or wrists: smooth round cysts with are often painful
- Sports-related injuries
- Work-related injuries, including repetitive trauma
