Treatment
Hand & Wrist Doctor in London
Specialist assessment and treatment for conditions affecting the hand, fingers and wrist
If you are looking for a hand doctor that London patients can access for specialist assessment and treatment, Mr Ahsan Akhtar is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist surgery. He provides assessment and treatment for a wide range of conditions affecting the hand, fingers and wrist, with consultations and surgery available at private hospitals and clinics across London.
Hand and wrist problems can affect your ability to work, exercise and carry out everyday activities. Whether you have persistent pain, numbness, stiffness, reduced grip strength or symptoms following an injury, a specialist assessment can help identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Conditions that Affect the Hand and Wrist
Hand and wrist problems can develop gradually or occur following an injury. Some conditions cause pain and stiffness, while others may affect sensation, grip strength or the movement of the fingers.
Mr Akhtar assesses and treats a range of conditions affecting the hand and wrist, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Dupuytren’s contracture
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
- Ganglion cysts
- Hand and wrist fractures
- Arthritis affecting the hand or wrist
- Tendon and ligament injuries
- Sports-related hand and wrist injuries
The appropriate treatment depends on the condition, the severity of your symptoms and how the problem is affecting your everyday activities.
When to See a Hand and Wrist Doctor in London
You may benefit from a specialist assessment if hand or wrist symptoms persist despite initial treatment, or if they begin to interfere with work, exercise or normal daily activities.
Common symptoms include:
- Ongoing pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Stiffness
- Weakness or reduced grip
- Difficulty moving a finger or wrist
- Swelling or a lump
- Symptoms following an injury
A consultation can help establish the cause of these symptoms and whether further investigations or treatment are required.
Types of Hand & Wrist Conditions Treated by Mr Akhtar
Mr Akhtar provides specialist assessment and treatment for a range of conditions affecting the hand, fingers and wrist. Treatment will depend on the underlying condition, the severity of your symptoms and how these symptoms affect your everyday activities.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed at the wrist, causing symptoms such as pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers. Symptoms may be particularly noticeable at night or during activities that involve repeated use of the hand.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Where surgery is recommended, the procedure involves cutting the ligament that forms the “roof” of the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Trigger Finger (Stenosing Tenosynovitis)
Trigger finger occurs when a finger catches or becomes stuck in a bent position. This is caused by inflammation and narrowing around the tendon, making it difficult for the tendon to move smoothly.
If symptoms do not improve with non-surgical treatment, surgery can release the narrowed part of the ‘tunnel’, allowing the tendon to glide more freely and improving movement of the affected finger.
De Quervain's Tenosynovitis
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It can cause pain and tenderness around the wrist and thumb, particularly when gripping, lifting or moving the thumb.
Where non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery can be used to release pressure around the affected tendons.
Dupuytren's Contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a progressive condition in which thick, scar-like tissue forms beneath the skin of the palm and fingers. Over time, this can cause one or more fingers to become progressively bent and difficult to straighten.
Where treatment is required, surgery can remove or divide the affected tissue to improve and restore finger mobility.
Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts are non-cancerous, fluid-filled lumps that can develop around the wrist or hand. Some cysts cause no symptoms, while others can result in pain, discomfort or restriction of joint movement. Where treatment is required, surgery can remove the cyst and address the affected area.
Fractures
Fractures of the hand or wrist can occur following a fall, sporting injury or other trauma. Some fractures can be managed without surgery, while complex or displaced fractures may require an operation to restore alignment and stability.
Where surgery is necessary, the bones may be realigned and stabilised using plates, screws or wires to support healing and restore function.
Arthritis
Arthritis affecting the hand or wrist can cause pain, stiffness and reduced movement, making everyday activities more difficult. Treatment depends on the joint affected and the severity of the condition.
For severe arthritis that has not responded to non-surgical treatment, surgical options can include joint replacement (arthroplasty) or joint fusion (arthrodesis) to relieve pain and improve function.
Discuss Your Hand & Wrist Symptoms
If you are experiencing ongoing pain, numbness, stiffness or reduced movement in your hand or wrist, a specialist consultation can help identify the cause and determine the most appropriate treatment for you.
Hand & Wrist Consultation Locations in London
Consultations and surgery are available at private hospitals and clinics across Central, North West and West London.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms need urgent review?
Severe pain following a significant injury, an obvious deformity, suspected dislocation or sudden inability to move the hand or wrist may require urgent medical assessment. If you have suffered a serious injury, seek appropriate medical attention promptly. Private wrist surgery may be considered where required following assessment.
Is private hand and wrist treatment available?
Yes. Private consultations and treatment are available through London Shoulder and Arm, with insured and self-paying patients welcome.
What happens at a hand and wrist consultation?
Mr Akhtar will discuss your symptoms, medical history and any previous treatment with you. He will examine your hand or wrist and review any relevant scans or investigations. Your diagnosis and treatment options can then be discussed with you.
Do all hand and wrist conditions require surgery?
No. Depending on the condition and severity of your symptoms, a wrist and hand surgeon in London may recommend non-surgical options such as splinting, medication, injections or physiotherapy. Surgery may be recommended when these treatments are not suitable or have not provided sufficient relief.
How long does recovery take after hand or wrist surgery?
Recovery depends on the procedure performed and your individual circumstances. Mr Akhtar will explain what to expect after surgery, including activity restrictions and any rehabilitation that may be recommended.
Is private medical insurance accepted?
Yes. Insured patients are welcome, although you should check with your insurer whether your policy covers the consultation and proposed treatment, and whether prior authorisation is required.