Monthly Archives: October 2013

What Is A Corticosteroid Injection?

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There are many types of corticosteroid injections, but in general, a corticosteroid injection is a formulation of two or more medications to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve function and mobility.

Corticosteroids are derived from cortisone, a steroid hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress. When combined with other pain-killing and anti-inflammatory medications in a corticosteroid injection, they work more effectively and efficiently to treat discomfort. Depending on the condition that is being treated, injections can provide pain relief for several weeks up to several months.

At Midwest Hand Therapy, we sometimes administer corticosteroid injections as part of a comprehensive approach to hand and wrist rehabilitation. Depending upon the condition and the particular patient, a corticosteroid injection may accompany hand exercises, hot and cold modalities, and massage.

Many patients that have never had one of these injections express concern regarding the amount of pain they will experience. These injections are very similar to any other type of injection; the initial needle stick is similar to the pain caused by a quick bee sting. There is temporary discomfort while the medication is being injected, but nearly all corticosteroid injection patients agree that a short moment of discomfort is much better than ongoing pain of the wrist or hand!

Corticosteroid injections should only be administered by a licensed physician, and to ensure the best results, patients should visit a doctor that specializes in the specific area being treated. For example: a hand specialist for the hand, fingers, wrist or forearm, and a podiatrist for the foot, ankle or lower extremities.

For more information on corticosteroid injections, or if you are experiencing hand, wrist or finger pain, please contact us at Midwest Hand Therapy.

How Do I Know If I’ve Broken My Finger?

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Broken fingers are one of the most commonly seen traumatic injuries in the emergency room. In fact, finger fractures account for an estimated 10% of all fractures.

Unfortunately, bones within the finger can easily be broken when compared to other parts of the body. Playing sports, punching something, falling on your hands, and hurting yourself on the job are the most common causes.

If you just recently injured your hand you may be wondering if your finger is, in fact, broken. The most obvious indication that you have broken your finger is a visible deformity or, with severe traumas, an exposed bone. Ouch! But, many times the symptoms aren’t that obvious.

Broken finger symptoms can include some or all of the following:

  • Pain immediately after the trauma
  • Limited motion of movement
  • Swelling
  • Numbness

To a child especially, diagnosing these symptoms in comparison to similar symptoms of injuries such as hairline fractures, sprains, or severe brushing can be very difficult. It is highly recommended that you get an X-ray for a professional diagnosis whenever you suspect a broken bone. A hand specialist will confirm the location and nature of the break.

If the injury is diagnosed as a broken bone, treatment will depend on the type of fracture and the particular location. Most often, broken fingers are treated by realigning the bones and casting or splinting to immobilize the area for several weeks. This permits a prognosis for fast and successful healing. With severe breaks, surgery may be required.

Because complications of a broken finger can result in long-term stiffness, rotation, nonunion, and infection, it is not recommended to try and treat yourself. Always seek out the expertise of a specialist!

If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms of a broken finger, contact Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation: (586) 532-0803.