Upper limb injuries are those injuries which affect the arms and shoulder. Such injuries may be traumatic, the result of single direct impact; or they may be due to repetative strain, the result of repetative movements or overuse over time. Common types of upper limb injury include:
Fracture: minor fractures can often heal will heal spontaneously with minimal immobilisation, while displaced or unstable fractures normally require surgical reduction and fixation.
Sprains and dislocations: sprains result from the stretching or tearing of joint ligaments and capsule. Dislocation involves a complete displacement of the joint with associated rupture to ligaments and joint capsule. Dislocation reqquires immediate intervention to reduce the joint, while sprains typically heal spontaneously.
Muscle and tendon strains and ruptures: strains result from the overstretching or partial tearing of muscles or tendons. Rupture, alternatively is a complete tear, and will typically require surgical intervention.
Tendonitis: inflammation of a tendon.
Nerve entrapment syndrome: a condition whereby nerves are compressed as they pass through muscles, ligaments or bone channels, often resulting in pain, numbness or tingling.
The symptoms of upper limb injury vary considerably depending on the character, location and severity of the injury itself.
Typically, injuries can result in acute or dull pain, swelling, redness, bruising, tenderness, stiffness, and limited function. A snapping sensation is common in cases of tendon rupture.
Upper limb injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
High-energy impact: including falls from height or road traffic accidents.
Sports and recreation: particularly where participating without sufficient warm-up, technique, or protective gear.
Overuse: repetitive movements over time can cause muscle strains and tendonitis.
Poor technique and posture: incorrect posture or position when undertaking everyday tasks (e.g., typing, lifting).
Non-surgical treatment options may include:
Rest: decreases stress, reduces pain and promotes healing.
Ice and compression: diminishes swelling and pain.
Elevation: helps with the management of swelling and improves blood circulation.
Physiotherapy: including gradual increase in range of motion exercises and stretching, and the use of strengthening aids, to improve strength, flexibility, and function recovery.
Medication: to help manage pain, increased muscle tension, swelling and inflammation.
Immobilisation: bracing or casting can protect the injured limb.
Surgical options for upper limb injury can include:
Fixation: a fracture may need either reduction, fixation or both. Closed reduction may be employed to realign the bone and, in severe case, open surgery may be neccessary to repair it. Rods, nails, screws and plates can be fitted to stabilise the broken bone during healing.
Dislocation reduction: involves returning the dislocated joint to its correct anatomical position. Further surgery may be neccessary to stabilise the joint following reduction.
Ligament repair or reconstruction: surgical repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligament to restore function.
Tendon repair or reconstruction: suturing of the torn ends of the tendon, or reattachment to the bone, occassionally requiring use of a graft to reinforce the repair.
Nerve repair: complete or partial nerve injuries typically require microsurgical nerve repair.
Arthroscopy: a minimally-invasive technique which allows direct access to damaged joints.
Arthroplasty (joint replacement): the partial or total replacement of the damaged joint or parts thereof with prosthetic components.
For further inquiries or to arrange a consultation, please contact Professor Al Muderis’ office at +61 2 88829011 or book an appointment online.