Guidance from Dr. Mitchell John on recognizing real injury, avoiding delays, and getting the right care early
Hand and wrist health plays a critical role in nearly every aspect of daily life, from basic tasks like typing and cooking to recreational activities such as sports and hobbies. When pain or injury strikes, even the simplest tasks can become challenging, affecting both personal and professional routines. Dr. Mitchell John, a dedicated hand and upper extremity specialist at Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center, offers comprehensive care aimed at restoring function and improving quality of life. With a keen focus on early intervention, accurate diagnosis, and patient-centered treatments, Dr. John provides essential guidance to navigate and resolve hand and wrist conditions effectively.
Common Hand and Wrist Injuries
Dr. John regularly encounters acute injuries such as finger dislocations, thumb ligament tears, and wrist fractures, especially wrist fractures, which often result from outdoor activities popular in Colorado like biking, skiing, snowboarding, and even routine tasks such as walking a dog. He explains, “If you’ve experienced a sudden injury causing your finger or wrist to swell or become stiff, getting evaluated quickly can significantly influence your recovery.”
Dr. John highlights the importance of early assessment, particularly for finger injuries: “Many finger injuries are manageable with therapy, but an early examination and X-ray can clearly define the appropriate treatment, whether surgical or nonsurgical. Early treatment can determine what your recovery will look like over the next several months.”
Recognizing When to Seek Care
Understanding when to seek medical attention can make a difference. Dr. John advises, “If your injury occurred acutely and you notice immediate changes like swelling, stiffness, or inability to move a finger, don’t hesitate to get evaluated. Minor aches that build gradually should be monitored at home initially, but sudden pain or noticeable changes should prompt an evaluation.”
Regarding signs requiring immediate attention, Dr. John emphasizes, “Significant deformity or an inability to move your finger or wrist are clear indicators that immediate care is necessary. Visiting a hand surgeon directly instead of urgent care simplifies the process, prevents unnecessary delays, and ensures proper treatment from the start.”
Addressing Numbness and Tingling
Patients often experience symptoms like numbness and tingling in their hands. Dr. John explains, “Pay close attention to how long symptoms last, which fingers are affected, and whether symptoms are associated with specific activities or movements. Night symptoms are particularly significant.”
“Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common conditions associated with numbness and tingling. Our team can precisely determine the location of nerve compression and develop an effective treatment plan, including possible surgical intervention, if necessary,” Dr. John adds.
Misconceptions about Surgery
A common misconception Dr. John encounters is that visiting a hand surgeon means surgery is inevitable. “Most finger and wrist injuries do not require surgery,” he clarifies. “Often, occupational therapy and proper guidance provide excellent outcomes. Surgery is reserved for cases that truly warrant it, and even then, early intervention simplifies the procedure and enhances recovery.”
Importance of Prompt Fracture Treatment
Early fracture treatment significantly influences the healing process. Dr. John advises, “When fractures are treated within the first two weeks, procedures are simpler, and recovery is quicker. Delaying treatment or relying solely on urgent care often results in unnecessary delays, costs, or complications.”
Hand, Wrist and Yes, Elbow Care Too
Beyond hand and wrist injuries, Dr. John frequently treats elbow issues such as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. “Persistent elbow pain that lasts more than two or three weeks or interferes with sleep or activity should prompt a medical evaluation,” he notes. Early intervention in these conditions helps avoid prolonged discomfort and aids quicker recovery.
Making Treatment Plans Together
Dr. John emphasizes a collaborative approach in patient care, focusing on individual needs and recovery goals. “It’s crucial that patients understand their condition and treatment options fully,” he explains. “We make decisions together, ensuring each patient’s treatment plan aligns with their specific lifestyle and goals.” He works closely with Panorama’s occupational and physical therapy teams, integrating their expertise to enhance recovery and improve long-term outcomes.
Understanding and addressing hand and wrist conditions early significantly improves outcomes. Dr. Mitchell John’s thoughtful and expert approach ensures patients receive the right care at the right time, promoting faster recovery and a return to normal activity.
Schedule an appointment with Dr. John at Panorama Orthopedics and Spine Center to get personalized care for your hand, wrist or elbow concerns. Booking online is quick and convenient. Click this link to book your appointment with Dr. John and get your care started: Schedule Online