OP
If a capsule rupture occurs in the hand, an attempt is usually made to treat it conservatively. In some cases, however, due to the severity of the injury, especially in the case of displaced structures, torn tendons or ligaments and bones, surgery is necessary to prevent patients from suffering from an increased risk of osteoarthritis later on. The type of surgical procedure chosen depends on the extent of the injury.
For example, the surgeon may reattach injured capsules, tendons or ligaments, straighten bones and possibly fix them with screws or similar, and remove damaged tissue. Aftercare is also determined by the surgical procedure. As a rule, however, the patient must first immobilize the hand after the operation.
Physiotherapy, however, usually begins the day after the operation with passive exercises, lymph drainage and light mobilization. Whether the patient is admitted as an inpatient also depends on the severity of the injury. Depending on whether open surgery or minimally invasive surgery is performed, the risk of infection is increased after the operation. The following articles may also be of interest to you:
- Wrist Arthrosis
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Plaster
Since it is absolutely necessary to avoid moving the wrist again too early after a rupture of the capsule when the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor often decides to immobilize the joint with a plaster cast.This ensures that the wrist is protected from external influences and that the injury is not made worse by careless movements. Even while the patient’s hand is still in a cast, physiotherapy and light finger exercises can be started so that the structures in the hand and wrist do not lose too much strength and mobility. The immobilization with plaster is done according to the doctor’s judgment and can last 1-3 weeks. As an alternative to a plaster cast, a splint is also possible: plaster vs. splint
Tapes
Tapering is also a method that can be used as a support in case of a torn capsule on the wrist. Although the tape gives the wrist additional stability, it cannot replace immobilization with a plaster cast. A distinction is made between classic tapes, which consist of inelastic adhesive tapes made of special material.
They should always be applied by an experienced therapist and give the wrist additional stability and relief after the injury has healed. The modern kinesiotapes can be used earlier, as they additionally activate the tissue through their elasticity and thus ensure better lymph drainage. Comprehensive information on this topic can be found in the following article: Kinesiotape
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