Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions? We have answers. Click the text below to learn more.
Does treatment always involve surgery?
No. Many hand problems can be managed through physical and occupational therapy, range-of-motion and strengthening exercises, custom splinting, activity modification, and medication to treat pain and control swelling. Our medical specialists exhaust every appropriate treatment option before considering surgery. If a surgical procedure becomes the right choice, Crozer-Keystone's team of specialists has the skill and experience to correct hand problems.
What do Certified Hand Therapists do?
Certified hand therapists first perform a comprehensive evaluation and develop an individualized treatment plan to help patients regain independence in self-care, work and the activities of daily living. They work with patients of all ages and with a variety of diagnoses. They are an important part of the patient care team, collaborating with surgeons and primary care physicians.
Is it important that my surgeon be fellowship-trained?
Fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons have chosen to complete an additional year or two of fellowship training in specific subspecialties of orthopedics (like hand and wrist surgery) and, therefore, have developed a high level of expertise in that specific area. Generally speaking, fellowship-trained surgeons stay current with the latest advances and techniques.
There are so many treatment options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. How do I know what's right for me?
You’re right, there are many options — both surgical and non-surgical. There are many factors that go into selecting the best course of treatment for you, so only a hand specialist should evaluate your specific situation.
Do I need to see a hand specialist for a simple fracture?
Your hand may be small, but its make-up is amazingly complex — each one has 27 bones! And that’s not including all the joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, nerves and blood vessels that work together so that your hand can do its job. Therefore, a “simple fracture” that doesn’t properly heal could affect the overall functioning of the hand. With specific expertise in the hand, a hand specialist is your best resource for ensuring that your injury is treated appropriately and with the latest techniques. Incidentally, your hand surgeon may opt to treat with conservative, non-surgical techniques such as physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication.
Request an Appointment 24/7
To learn more about the Crozer-Keystone/Philadelphia Hand Center Partnership or to make an appointment with a specialist, call 1-855-5CK-HAND (1-855-525-4263) or fill out our secure request form.
