Services Archive · Hand & Ortho

Ankle Surgery

About Minimal Incision/Percutaneous Ankle Surgery

At Hand & Ortho, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive techniques to treat ankle conditions. One of the most effective methods we offer is minimal incision/percutaneous surgery. This procedure uses small incisions and specialized instruments to treat a variety of ankle issues with less trauma to the surrounding tissues. With minimal incision surgery, patients experience less pain, a quicker recovery, and reduced scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Minimal incision/percutaneous surgery is designed to treat conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, ankle fractures, tendon injuries, and more. Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-Procedure Evaluation: Before the surgery, we will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and imaging (such as X-rays or MRIs) to determine the best course of action for your specific condition.
Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but your ankle will be numb. In some cases, sedation may be used to help you relax during the procedure.
Small Incisions: Unlike traditional surgery, minimal incision surgery involves tiny, precise cuts, often less than an inch long. Specialized instruments are then inserted through these incisions to perform the necessary repairs or corrections.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: The surgeon uses a combination of advanced tools and imaging technology to guide the procedure, ensuring accuracy while minimizing damage to the surrounding tissues.
Closing the Incisions: The small incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips, and bandages are applied to protect the area.

Conditions Treated with Minimal Incision Surgery

Minimal incision/percutaneous surgery can be used to treat a variety of ankle conditions, including:

Bunions: Removal of the bony bump and realignment of the toe to reduce pain and improve function.
Hammertoes: Straightening of the toe by releasing or adjusting the tendons and ligaments causing the deformity.
Fractures: Stabilization of broken bones in the ankle with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
Achilles tendon injuries: Repair of torn or damaged tendons with minimal incisions to promote quicker healing.
Plantar fasciitis: Release of the tight fascia to reduce pain and improve mobility.

Recovery After Minimal Incision Surgery

One of the main advantages of minimal incision/percutaneous surgery is the shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Here’s what you can expect during your recovery:

Initial Rest and Elevation: After surgery, you will be advised to rest and elevate your ankle to reduce swelling and promote healing. Most patients can go home the same day.
Post-Operative Bandaging: You will be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site and change your bandages as needed. Stitches are usually removed within 10-14 days, depending on the procedure.
Weight-Bearing: Depending on the type of surgery, you may need to use crutches or a walking boot for several weeks to avoid putting weight on the operated ankle.
Physical Therapy: Once the initial healing phase is complete, you may be prescribed physical therapy to help regain strength, flexibility, and mobility in the ankle.
Return to Activity: Most patients can return to light activities within 4-6 weeks, with full recovery typically taking 6-12 weeks. The exact timeline depends on the procedure and your specific healing process.

Advantages of Minimal Incision Surgery

There are several benefits to choosing minimal incision/percutaneous surgery at Hand & Ortho:

Less Pain: Smaller incisions mean less disruption to tissues, leading to less post-operative pain.
Quicker Recovery: Patients typically experience faster recovery times, allowing them to return to their daily activities sooner.
Reduced Scarring: The small incisions used in the procedure result in minimal scarring, which is often less noticeable than the scars from traditional surgery.
Less Risk of Infection: With fewer and smaller incisions, the risk of infection is significantly reduced.
Improved Outcomes: The precision of minimal incision surgery leads to better functional outcomes and faster healing times.

Why Choose Hand & Ortho for Your Surgery?

At Hand & Ortho, we are committed to providing the highest quality care with the latest surgical techniques. When you choose us for your minimal incision surgery, you benefit from:

Expert Surgeons: Our team consists of highly trained, experienced surgeons who specialize in ankle care and are skilled in the latest minimally invasive techniques.
Personalized Care: We take the time to understand your condition and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs.
Comprehensive Support: From your initial consultation to post-operative care, we provide continuous support throughout your recovery process.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re dealing with ankle pain, minimal incision surgery at Hand & Ortho could be the solution you need. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how this advanced procedure can help you get back on your feet faster.

Ankle Instability

About Ankle Instability

At Hand & Ortho, we understand how challenging ankle instability can be. Ankle instability occurs when the ligaments in your ankle become weakened or stretched, often due to repeated sprains or injuries. This instability can cause your ankle to feel “wobbly” or prone to giving out, especially during physical activities. Left untreated, ankle instability can lead to further injuries and limit your ability to participate in daily activities or sports.

Causes

Ankle instability can develop over time due to various factors, including:

Recurrent ankle sprains that cause damage to the ligaments and weaken the joint over time.
Previous injuries that didn’t fully heal or were not properly treated, leading to chronic instability.
Overuse from repetitive movements, particularly in athletes or individuals who engage in high-impact sports.
Improper rehabilitation after an ankle injury, which can prevent the ligaments and muscles from regaining full strength.
Genetic factors or joint hypermobility, which can make your ligaments more prone to stretching and injury.

Symptoms

If you are experiencing ankle instability, you may notice the following symptoms:

Frequent ankle sprains or “giving way” of the ankle, especially when walking or during physical activity.
Pain in the ankle, particularly along the outer side of the joint.
Swelling and bruising that can persist even after an injury has healed.
Instability or a feeling that the ankle is weak or not fully supporting your weight.
Difficulty with balance or uneven walking, which can increase the risk of falls.

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose ankle instability, we will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include:

Physical examination to assess your range of motion, strength, and stability of the ankle joint.
X-rays to rule out fractures and assess any structural damage to the bones of the ankle.
MRI or ultrasound to evaluate the ligaments and soft tissues around the ankle and check for any tears or weaknesses.
Stress tests to evaluate the degree of instability and the function of the ligaments.

Treatment

The treatment for ankle instability will depend on the severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:

Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the ankle and improve stability, which can help prevent further injuries.
Bracing or taping to provide support and reduce the risk of the ankle “giving way” during physical activity.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and reduce swelling.
Orthotics or shoe inserts to improve alignment and provide additional support to the ankle.
Surgical intervention may be recommended if conservative treatments are ineffective, or if there is significant damage to the ligaments. This may include ligament repair or reconstruction.

Recovery

Recovery from ankle instability varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment plan. Typically, you can expect the following:

Physical therapy will be a key part of your recovery, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and stability to your ankle.
Bracing or taping may be recommended for ongoing support during the recovery process.
If surgery is necessary, recovery may take 6 to 12 weeks for ligament repair or reconstruction, followed by rehabilitation.
Gradual return to activity once your ankle has regained stability and strength, with guidance from our team.
Follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure that your ankle is healing properly and remains stable.

Ankle Sprains / Fractures

About Ankle Sprains / Fractures

At Hand & Ortho, we understand how painful and frustrating ankle sprains and fractures can be. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments around your ankle are stretched or torn, while a fracture refers to a break in one or more of the bones in your ankle. Both conditions can cause significant pain, swelling, and difficulty moving your foot. It’s important to address these injuries early to prevent long-term complications.

Causes

There are several common causes of ankle sprains and fractures. These include:

Twisting or rolling the ankle during physical activities or sports, especially when landing awkwardly or on an uneven surface.
Falling or tripping that causes you to land in a way that stresses the ankle.
Direct impact or trauma, such as from a car accident or falling from a height.
High-impact sports like basketball, soccer, or running, where quick movements and uneven surfaces can put strain on your ankle.

Symptoms

If you’ve injured your ankle, you may experience a range of symptoms, including:

Pain around the ankle joint, especially when walking or putting weight on it.
Swelling and bruising around the injured area.
Difficulty walking or standing, as your ankle may feel unstable or weak.
Tenderness when touching the affected area.
In cases of fractures, you may also notice deformity or an inability to move the ankle joint.

Diagnosis

To determine the extent of your injury, we’ll perform a thorough evaluation. This may include:

A physical examination to assess the pain, swelling, and mobility of your ankle.
X-rays to check for fractures and determine the severity of the bone injury.
MRI or ultrasound if we suspect soft tissue damage, like ligament tears or tendon issues.

Treatment

The treatment plan for your ankle injury will depend on its severity. For sprains and fractures, we may recommend the following:

R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) for mild sprains to help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
Immobilization with a cast or splint for fractures, which will help your bones heal properly.
Physical therapy to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion after your injury has healed.
If your fracture is more severe, we may recommend surgical intervention to realign the bones and ensure proper healing.
Pain management with medication to help control your discomfort during recovery.

Recovery

Recovery from an ankle sprain or fracture can vary depending on the severity of your injury. Generally, you can expect the following:

Gradual return to activity once your ankle has healed enough, with clearance from our medical team.
Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around your ankle and restore full mobility, which will help prevent future injuries.
For fractures, recovery typically takes 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the extent of the injury and whether surgery was necessary.
Follow-up visits to monitor your progress and ensure that your ankle is healing properly.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendinitis with red spot, Injury after exercising and running. Need to see doctor for treatment

Achilles Tendonitis/rupture, Tendon Inflammation

Achilles tendonitis is a common condition that involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon at the back of the ankle connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often results from overuse, strain, or injury and can cause significant discomfort and limit mobility. At Hand & Ortho, we provide expert care to diagnose and treat Achilles tendonitis, helping you recover and return to your active lifestyle.

Causes

Achilles tendonitis typically develops due to repetitive stress on the tendon. Common causes include:

Overuse from running, jumping, or high-impact activities
Sudden increases in physical activity intensity or duration
Poor footwear that lacks adequate support
Tight calf muscles or limited ankle flexibility

In some cases, underlying biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or improper gait, can contribute to the development of Achilles tendonitis.

Symptoms

The hallmark symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include:

Pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle, especially in the morning
Swelling or tenderness in the Achilles tendon area
Difficulty walking or performing activities that involve pushing off the foot
A thickened or hardened area on the tendon in chronic cases

If left untreated, the condition can progress to tendon rupture, a more severe and debilitating injury.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing Achilles tendonitis involves a detailed medical history and physical examination. During your visit to Hand & Ortho, our specialists will:

Assess your symptoms and activity history
Perform a physical exam to identify tenderness, swelling, or limited range of motion
Use imaging tools such as ultrasound or MRI to evaluate the severity of the tendon inflammation and rule out tears or other conditions

Treatment

Treatment for Achilles tendonitis focuses on reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and restoring function. Options may include:

Rest and activity modification: Avoiding high-impact activities to allow the tendon to heal
Ice and anti-inflammatory medications: To reduce swelling and discomfort
Physical therapy: Exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and overall biomechanics
Custom orthotics: To correct gait abnormalities and provide support
Advanced interventions: In persistent cases, minimally invasive procedures or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be recommended

Our team will work closely with you to develop a tailored treatment plan designed to address your specific needs and lifestyle goals.

Recovery

Recovery from Achilles tendonitis varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment approach. Key points include:

Consistent adherence to your treatment plan is crucial for optimal healing
Gradual reintroduction of physical activities under professional guidance
Use of supportive footwear and continued stretching to prevent recurrence

At Hand & Ortho, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and guidance throughout your recovery process, ensuring a safe return to your daily activities and active pursuits.

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

Tennis Elbow: Understanding Lateral Epicondylitis

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition involving the tendons that attach to the bone on the outside of the elbow. The muscle involved, the extensor carpi radialis brevis, helps extend and abduct the wrist. This muscle is connected to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus bone via a tendon. When this tendon undergoes degeneration, it weakens its anchor site, putting excessive stress on the area. This leads to pain during activities that require frequent gripping, lifting, or grasping.

What Causes Tennis Elbow and Who Gets It?

Tennis elbow is typically caused by overuse of the muscle, which adds stress to the tendon attachments. Direct trauma to the area can also cause damage to the tendon.

While tennis elbow is most common in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50, it can occur in both younger and older patients. Those who engage in repetitive activities or sports that involve frequent arm movement, such as tennis or other racquet sports, are at higher risk.

Symptoms and Treatment of Tennis Elbow

The primary symptom of tennis elbow is pain, which typically starts at the elbow and may radiate down the arm into the hand. The area is usually tender to the touch, and pain is triggered by any activity that engages the muscle.

For tennis elbow treatment, your doctor may recommend:

Thorough examination of the affected arm to assess the condition.
Limiting activity and modifying movements that aggravate the pain.
Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
Wearing a brace to support the elbow and alleviate strain on the tendon.
Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.

Surgery is generally not necessary unless the pain persists and is unresponsive to more conservative treatments.

If you are experiencing tennis elbow, contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for expert evaluation and treatment options to help you recover and restore function to your arm.

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s Elbow: Understanding Tendinosis of the Elbow

Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition where small tears form in the tendons along the elbow due to overuse. These tendons connect the muscles in your forearm to the elbow, and repetitive motions can stretch and inflame them, leading to pain. Despite the name, golfer’s elbow isn’t exclusive to golf players—it can affect anyone engaging in repetitive hand or wrist movements.

Causes and Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

While golfer’s elbow is commonly associated with playing golf, other sports and occupations can contribute to the development of this condition. Activities that can lead to golfer’s elbow include:

Baseball
Weight training
Plumbing
Cooking
Butchers
Painters

The condition occurs when the muscles controlling the wrist and fingers are damaged due to improper lifting, gripping, or repetitive actions in these activities. People with golfer’s elbow typically experience:

Pain on the inner side of the elbow, which may radiate into the forearm and hands.
Stiffness in the joints.
Weakening clenches.
Numbness or tingling in the fingers.
Inability to make a fist.

Diagnosis & Treatment of Golfer’s Elbow

Diagnosing golfer’s elbow typically involves a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and questions about your activities. If needed, an x-ray may be performed to rule out other conditions.

Most cases of golfer’s elbow can be treated with nonsurgical methods, including:

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling.
Heat or ice application to relieve discomfort and inflammation.
Wearing an elbow brace to support the area and limit movement.
Strengthening exercises or stretches to improve flexibility and muscle strength.
Plenty of rest to allow the elbow to heal properly.

If symptoms persist, more advanced treatments such as physical therapy or injections may be recommended. If you are suffering from golfer’s elbow, contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for expert diagnosis and treatment.

Elbow Pain

Understanding Elbow Pain and How to Seek Treatment

The elbow serves as a hinge for your arm, facilitating movement and flexibility. This joint is composed of a complex set of bones and muscles, such as the biceps and triceps. When these muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones are injured or irritated, it can result in mild to severe elbow pain. Continue reading to learn more about what causes elbow pain and how to seek treatment at South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center.

What Causes Elbow Pain?

Elbow pain is a broad term that can stem from a variety of factors. Common causes of elbow pain are often related to injuries from sports, accidents, or diseases. These may include:

Tendonitis
Olecranon Bursitis
A sprained or broken elbow
Various forms of arthritis
Cellulitis
Tumors
Nerve entrapment
Tennis elbow
Golfer’s elbow
Dislocation
Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Overuse due to occupation or hobby

Symptoms of Elbow Pain

The symptoms of elbow pain can range from mild to severe, and often include similar signs. Patients should see a doctor if:

There is severe pain present in the joint.
Swelling or bruising occurs.
You experience difficulty moving your arm normally.
Pain does not improve after a few days.
Pain is present even when your elbow is not in motion.

Immediate medical attention is required if there is any sign of a deformity in the elbow or if bone is protruding.

Elbow Pain Diagnosis & Treatments

Diagnosing the cause of elbow pain involves several techniques, such as:

Physical exams
X-rays
CT scans
MRIs
EMG (electromyography)
Biopsy, if fluid is present in the joint

Treatment plans for elbow pain vary depending on the underlying cause. In many cases, elbow pain is not serious and can be treated at home with:

Rest
Ice application
Compression bandages
Anti-inflammatory medications
Elevating the elbow to reduce swelling

If the pain persists or worsens, in-office treatments may be necessary, which can include:

Steroid injections
Prescription medications
Surgery, if required

At South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center, we are committed to providing personalized care for elbow pain. Contact us for a thorough evaluation and treatment options tailored to your needs.

Elbow Fractures

Elbow Fractures: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Elbow fractures are more common than you might think, especially among children, who make up 10% of all fractures. These fractures often occur due to falls or high activity levels. Adults are also prone to elbow fractures, as elbows frequently absorb the impact when individuals fall and use their arms to brace themselves.

About the Elbow Joint

The elbow joint consists of three bones that work together to allow for arm movement:

Humerus – The bone connecting from the shoulder to the elbow.
Radius – The bone connecting the elbow to the wrist, located on the thumb side of the forearm.
Ulna – The bone connecting the elbow to the wrist, located on the pinky side of the forearm.

Common Types of Elbow Fractures Treated at South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center

Elbow fractures come in various forms, with some of the most common including:

Monteggia Fractures – A fracture of the ulna with dislocation of the radial head. This fracture causes significant pain and swelling.
Physeal Fractures – Fractures through the growth plate in the humerus, radius, or ulna, which are especially concerning in children as they can affect bone growth.
Epicondylar Fractures – Occur at the tip of the bony prominences on the inside or outside of the elbow, often due to overuse or repetitive stress.
Condylar Fractures – Involves the joint surface of the humerus, typically on the outer elbow, and can take longer to heal.

Symptoms of an Elbow Fracture

Typical symptoms of an elbow fracture include:

Pain
Swelling
Bruising
Stiffness
Crookedness of the bone
Inability to straighten the elbow
Pain when straightening or bending the elbow

Some individuals may also hear or feel a pop or snap upon impact.

Treatment for Elbow Fractures

Treatment for elbow fractures depends on the severity of the injury. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays or scans are essential for determining the extent of damage. Common treatment options include:

Prescribed pain and anti-inflammatory medications to manage symptoms.
Surgery may be required for compound fractures where the bone breaks through the skin. This will likely involve cleaning the wound and resetting the bones.
Repairing ligaments, tendons, and muscles if they are damaged in the fracture.
For minor fractures, a sling or cast may be used depending on the severity of the break.

Most fractures require physical therapy to restore full range of motion, flexibility, and strength in the hand and forearm. If you suspect you have an elbow fracture, it is crucial to ice the area, elevate it above your heart, and contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center to schedule an appointment.

Elbow Bursitis

Elbow Bursitis: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Elbow Bursitis, also known as Olecranon Bursitis, is commonly referred to as ‘Popeye elbow’, ‘Gamer’s elbow’, or ‘Student’s elbow’. This condition occurs when the bursa, a fluid-filled sac in the joint that provides cushioning for the elbow, becomes inflamed or infected, causing the olecranon to swell.

Elbow bursitis typically makes the elbow appear very swollen, puffy, and red, with an abnormal bulge visible at the back of the elbow.

Causes and Symptoms of Elbow Bursitis

Elbow bursitis can be caused by trauma, pressure, infection, or underlying medical conditions that affect the bursa. Common causes include:

Arthritis
Gout
Prolonged leaning on the elbow
Injuries causing bleeding or fluid buildup
Infection within the elbow
Blood-borne infections

Symptoms of elbow bursitis may include:

Pain with movement
Significant swelling
Tenderness upon touching
Redness
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes

Diagnosis & Treatment

To diagnose elbow bursitis, your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. X-rays may be necessary if a serious injury, such as a fracture, is suspected.

If needed, the fluid from the bursa may be drained and tested for infection. If left untreated, elbow bursitis can lead to spontaneous rupture or, in the case of infection, it can spread into the bloodstream and cause serious illness.

For treatment, your doctor may recommend the following:

Compression bandages to stabilize the joint
Ice packs to reduce swelling
Oral anti-inflammatory medications
Hydrocortisone injections to decrease inflammation

In cases of chronic bursitis, treatment options may include:

Modified sitting techniques to reduce pressure on the elbow
Antibiotics if infection is present
Surgery if conservative treatments are ineffective

It is important to seek medical attention if you notice significant swelling or suspect elbow bursitis, as early treatment can help prevent complications.

Elbow Arthritis

Contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for Elbow Arthritis Relief

Arthritis is a condition that damages the cartilage around bones, causing inflammation in joints like the elbow. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, consider seeking treatment at South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center for relief from elbow arthritis.

There are various types of arthritis, each with different causes and risk factors, including:

Osteoarthritis: Caused by wear and tear on cartilage, common in active individuals, leading to bone-on-bone friction and pain.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Predominantly found in women, this genetic condition occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of the joints.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury, making the affected area sensitive and painful with movement.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Accompanies the skin condition psoriasis, causing flaking skin on the elbow along with arthritis symptoms.
Septic Arthritis: Caused by a bacterial infection that spreads to the joint through the bloodstream.

What Causes Elbow Arthritis?

Elbow arthritis can be caused by various factors, depending on the type:

Osteoarthritis: Often caused by the wear and tear on cartilage, leading to painful bone-on-bone contact.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A genetic condition where the immune system attacks the joint lining, leading to inflammation and pain.
Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops following an elbow injury, causing long-term pain and sensitivity.
Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked with psoriasis, causing painful joints and skin flaking.
Septic Arthritis: Occurs when a bacterial infection enters the bloodstream and infects the joint.

Symptoms of Elbow Arthritis

The symptoms of elbow arthritis vary depending on the type, and can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

Loss of motion and movement
A grating sensation in the bones
Joints locking
Stiffness
Joint instability
Swelling

If the symptoms worsen, they may spread to other joints near the elbow, such as the wrist, hands, or fingers.

Elbow Arthritis Diagnosis & Treatments

If you are experiencing symptoms of elbow arthritis, your doctor will evaluate your condition to determine the best treatment approach. Mild forms of arthritis can be managed with:

Activity modification
Medications for pain relief
Corticosteroid injections
Physical therapy

For severe cases of elbow arthritis, there are several surgical options to alleviate pain:

Arthroscopy: A procedure to remove loose fragments and tissue in the joint.
Prosthetic Joints: Inserting a prosthetic joint to replace the damaged one.
Tendon Repair: Repairing damaged tendons in the elbow.
Joint Fusion: Fusing the joint if a prosthetic joint is not a viable option.

If you’re suffering from elbow arthritis, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Contact South Florida Hand and Orthopaedic Center today to schedule an appointment. Call us at (561) 241-4758 for expert care and treatment.