Upper Limb Reconstruction
Your hand and arm rely on a complex network of bones, muscles, tendons and nerves working together. When one part is damaged, it can affect everyday movements such as gripping, lifting or reaching. Severe injuries, nerve problems or previous trauma may leave you with ongoing weakness or limited function.
An assessment with an orthopaedic surgeon in Midrand or Sunninghill can help you understand your condition and explore options to restore movement.
When might upper limb reconstruction be needed?
Upper limb reconstruction may be considered when an injury or condition has affected the normal connection between muscles, tendons and nerves. These procedures are often used when traditional treatment options are not enough to restore movement.
Conditions that may require reconstructive treatment include:
- Tendon injuries, where damaged tendons affect the ability to bend or straighten the fingers.
- Nerve injuries, which can lead to weakness, numbness or loss of movement.
- Brachial plexus injuries, which affect the network of nerves responsible for movement and sensation in the upper limb.
- Complex injuries following hand and wrist trauma that involve multiple structures.
Each injury affects people differently. Your treatment plan depends on the location of the damage, your symptoms and how your function has been affected.
What procedures are used in upper limb reconstruction?
The goal of reconstruction is to improve the way your arm or hand works by addressing the underlying problem. Depending on your condition, treatment may involve procedures such as:
- Tendon transfers, where a functioning tendon is repositioned to help replace the movement of a damaged tendon.
- Nerve transfers, where healthy nerves are redirected to support areas affected by nerve damage.
These procedures may form part of a broader recovery plan that includes rehabilitation and exercises to help you regain movement and strength over time.
Some patients may also have related concerns such as stiffness, joint pain or changes caused by previous injuries. These symptoms can overlap with conditions such as common hand conditions or arthritis, which may require careful assessment.
How is the right treatment approach decided?
A consultation begins by understanding your injury, symptoms and how your daily activities have been affected. Your arm and hand function will be assessed, and additional tests may be recommended to provide more information about the affected structures.
People searching for orthopaedic surgery near them are often looking for answers after a serious injury or when previous treatment has not restored normal function. Others searching for orthopaedic physicians near them may be trying to find a specialist who can assess complex upper limb concerns.
Understanding your condition is the first step towards making informed decisions about treatment. Upper limb reconstruction may also be considered for injuries affecting athletes or active individuals, particularly when symptoms overlap with sports-related conditions.
Ready to discuss your options?
If you are experiencing ongoing weakness, reduced movement or the effects of a complex upper limb injury, book a consultation with Dr Dharshen Naicker. We can explore the available treatment options and determine the next steps towards improving your hand and arm function.
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