Nerve Injury of the Hand and Wrist

Specialized Nerve Care in Paramus, NJ with Dr. Steven Ugras

What Is a Nerve Injury?

A nerve injury occurs when one of the delicate nerves in the hand or wrist is stretched, compressed, or cut. These nerves are responsible for sensation, movement, and coordination of the hand. Even small injuries can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of function.

At Paramus Hand Surgery, Dr. Steven Ugras diagnoses and treats nerve injuries with precision to maximize recovery and preserve hand function.

Common Causes of Nerve Injuries

• Cuts or lacerations from glass, knives, or sharp tools

• Crush injuries from machinery or accidents

• Fractures or dislocations that compress or tear nerves

• Repetitive strain (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome)

• Prolonged pressure on the nerve during sleep or immobilization

• Gunshot or penetrating injuries

• Surgical complications from other procedures
  

Types of Nerve Injuries

• Neuropraxia: Temporary conduction block without permanent damage

• Axonotmesis: Damage to the nerve fibers with preservation of the surrounding structure

• Neurotmesis: Complete nerve severing — the most serious form, usually requiring surgery
  

Symptoms of Nerve Injury in the Hand or Wrist

• Numbness or loss of sensation

• Tingling or “pins and needles” sensation

• Weakness or inability to grip objects

• Loss of fine motor skills

• Hypersensitivity or burning pain

• Muscle wasting (in long-standing injuries)

Important: Sudden numbness or weakness after trauma should be evaluated immediately.

How Are Nerve Injuries Diagnosed?

Dr. Ugras performs a thorough neurological examination and may recommend:

• Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) to measure nerve function

• MRI or ultrasound to visualize nerve compression or injury

• X-rays to assess for fractures causing nerve damage
  

Treatment Options for Nerve Injuries

Non-Surgical Treatments:

• Splinting to reduce movement and protect the nerve

• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling

• Physical and occupational therapy to maintain mobility and strength

• Corticosteroid injections for inflammation-related compression (e.g., carpal tunnel)

Surgical Treatments:

• Nerve repair: Direct suturing of severed nerve ends

• Nerve grafting: Using donor nerve tissue to bridge gaps in severe injuries

• Nerve decompression: Releasing pressure on a compressed nerve

• Nerve transfers: Redirecting a healthy nerve to restore lost function

Dr. Ugras uses microsurgical techniques for optimal precision and recovery.

Recovery After a Nerve Injury

Nerves heal slowly — usually about 1 mm per day after repair. Early intervention often improves outcomes, but full recovery may take months or even years depending on injury severity.

How Common Are Nerve Injuries?

Nerve injuries to the hand and wrist are common in both workplace and sports accidents, as well as in sharp object injuries. Immediate care from a hand surgeon improves the likelihood of regaining full sensation and movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will my nerve injury heal on its own?

A: Some minor nerve injuries recover without surgery, but severe injuries often require surgical repair for the best outcome.

Q: How soon should a nerve injury be treated?

A: Ideally within days to weeks of the injury. Delays can lead to permanent damage.

Q: Will I regain full sensation and movement?

A: Many patients recover well, but outcomes depend on the location, severity, and timing of treatment.

Nerve Injury Treatment in Bergen County, NJ

If you’ve suffered trauma to your hand or wrist and have numbness, tingling, or weakness, do not delay care.

Paramus Hand Surgery provides advanced microsurgical nerve repair and decompression for patients in Paramus, Ridgewood, Hackensack, and throughout Bergen County, NJ.

Schedule your evaluation today with Dr. Steven Ugras, an expert in restoring nerve function and hand mobility.