Different sports carry varying risk levels for injury. Hand surgeons at Salem Health Orthopedics say any athletic activity can result in a hand injury.

“Athletes rely on their hands for grip, coordination, strength and precision, making hand injuries among the most common reasons for missed playing time across many sports,” said orthopedic surgeon Jeffrey Knight, MD. “Sports with the highest rates include football, basketball, baseball and softball, wrestling, hockey, skiing and snowboarding, rock climbing, gymnastics, and volleyball.”

The most common injuries

The orthopedic surgeon said contact sports tend to produce fractures and dislocations while ball sports frequently result in finger ligament injuries, tendon injuries and impact fractures.

“Many of these injuries can appear minor initially but may lead to permanent stiffness, weakness or loss of function if not recognized and treated appropriately,” said Dr. Knight.

Treatment and recovery

Treatment depends on the injury and the athletes’ goals. Recovery times can vary from a few weeks for minor sprains to several months for complex fractures or tendon repair.

“Many stable fractures, ligament sprains and tendon injuries can be managed without surgery using splints, casts, taping and a structured rehabilitation program focused on restoring motion, strength and function,” said Dr. Knight. “More complex fractures, unstable ligament injuries, tendon ruptures or joint dislocations often require surgical repair or fixation to restore normal anatomy and optimize long-term performance.”

When to see an orthopedist

Dr. Knight recommends athletes seek orthopedic evaluation whenever there is significant pain, visible deformity, persistent swelling, loss of motion, numbness, inability to move a finger normally or if symptoms fail to improve.

“Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment often mean the difference between a complete recovery and permanent loss of motion or strength,” he said. “Even injuries that seem minor can have significant long-term consequences if treatment is delayed.”

Care at Salem Health

Are you dealing with challenges like arthritis or trigger finger? Salem Health Orthopedics has the largest group of surgeons in the mid-Willamette Valley specifically trained in treatment of hand and wrist conditions.

Click here to learn more about care with Salem Health Orthopedics.