What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In Dr. Ashruf’s clinical practice, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most commonly reported health problems. Carpal tunnel occurs when swelling pinches the median nerve, which provides sensation to the palm side of the thumb, index finger, middle finger and to the inside half of the ring finger.

The result can be a combination of tingling, numbness, weakness and pain in the fingers, thumb, palm or the forearm. If the condition is not treated, permanent deterioration of muscle tissue can occur.

Other conditions treated by Dr. Ashruf:
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Cell Phone Elbow)
Similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition brought on by increased pressure. This occurs when there is increased pressure of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. The bump of bone on the inner portion of the elbow, commonly known as the funny bone, is located under the ulnar nerve. At this sensitive area, the ulnar nerve is located directly next to the bone and over time becomes very susceptible to pressure. As the pressure on the nerve becomes greater, there is a disturbance in how the nerve works. Again, similarly to carpal tunnel syndrome, progressive pain, numbness, tingling, and pain is felt in the elbow, forearm, hand and fingers.

DeQuervains Tenosynovitis
Also known as first dorsal compartment tendonitis, this is also one of the most common hand problems seen by Dr Ashruf. It is more commonly known as deQuervain’s tendonitis or tenosynovitis. Essentially, this is a condition brought on by irritation or inflammation of the wrist tendons starting at the base of the thumb.This  inflammation causes the tunnel around the tendon to swell and enlarge. When this occurs, making thumb and wrist movement painful. For individuals with De Quervians, making a fist, grasping or holding objects—are common painful movements with deQuervain’s tendonitis.

Dupuytren’s Disease
Dupuytren’s Disease is caused by an abnormal thickening in the palm and fingers. This limits hand movement. Although the actual cause  of Dupuytren’s is not known. Heredity plays a significant role. It commonly affects Caucasians with ancestors from Northern Europe. The condition occurs more frequently in men, runs in families, and usually begins after age 40. Dupuytren’s Disease begins as a small lump or pit in the palm often near the crease at the base of the small or ring fingers. As time goes on, a cord sometimes develops between the palm and fingers drawing the fingers into the palm and affecting activities.

Hand Fractures
Fractures of the fingers occur when the finger or hands hit a solid object with force. Fractures are most common at the base of the little finger. This is called a boxers fracture. Nerve injuries occur as a result of trauma, compression or over-stretching. Nerves send impulses to the brain about sensation and also play an important role in finger movement. When nerves are injured, one can lose ability to move fingers, lose sensation and develop a condition known as a contracture.  A nerve injury of the hand can be disabling and results in loss of hand function. Thus it is vital to seek medical help as soon as possible after any hand injury. We offer immediate same day appointments for hand injuries, and in most cases since we are in network with insurance plans, we can perform the procedure quickly often within one week.

Hand Sprains
Sprains result from forcing a joint to perform a function against its normal range of motion. Finger sprains occur when the ligaments which are attached to the bone are overstretched and this results in pain, swelling, and difficulty for moving the finger. Common examples of a sprain are jammed or twisted fingers. These injuries are common among ball players but can also occur in laborers and handy men. When finger sprains are not treated on time, prolonged disability can result.