KEEPING HANDS STRONG: PREVENTING, TREATING SPORTS-RELATED HAND AND WRIST INJURIES

KUALA LUMPUR, April 3 (Bernama) -- Badminton players and other athletes are at high risk of hand and wrist injuries due to repetitive movements and gripping. 

These injuries, which make up 25 per cent of all sports-related injuries, can significantly impact performance and even end careers if left untreated, said Sunway Medical Centre Consultant Hand and Microsurgery Specialist, Dr Ravindran Thuraisingham. 

He said as more Malaysians engage in physical activities, addressing and preventing these injuries is crucial to ensuring athletes’ long-term health and success.

“Sports like badminton, football, volleyball, and squash, which involve frequent gripping, twisting, and contact, put players at high risk of injury and to prevent long-term damage, early diagnosis, proper treatment, and preventive measures such as strength training and correct techniques are crucial. 

"If pain persists for more than three weeks, athletes should seek medical attention," he said in a statement today. 

Dr. Ravindran noted that hand and wrist injuries are prevalent among active individuals in Malaysia and among the most common are sprains, fractures, ligament tears, and tendon injuries. 

One frequently occurring condition is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which results from pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.

"Studies indicate that CTS affects between 20 per cent and 60 per cent of Malaysians, often causing symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hands," he said.

 He also highlighted  that another serious concern is the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) tear, an injury often seen in sports that involve repetitive wrist movements, such as badminton and basketball. 

"Left untreated, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term complications.

"These injuries can significantly affect grip strength and range of motion. For professional athletes, they can be career-threatening if not treated properly," he said. 

Dr. Ravindran stressed the importance of early diagnosis to avoid long-term damage and potentially prevent the need for surgery.

"Non-invasive treatments such as splinting and physiotherapy can help patients recover within weeks.However, if pain persists for more than three weeks, it may indicate a more severe injury requiring specialist attention," he said. 

Dr Ravindran said advancements in medical technology help minimally invasive surgeries and specialised rehabilitation programmes can help athletes recover and return to training within three months.

He added that modern medical technology has made minimally invasive surgeries more accessible, significantly reducing recovery time and many athletes resume training within three months.

"Traditional surgeries, by contrast, require larger incisions and longer hospital stays, often extending recovery beyond three months. 

"Regardless of the treatment approach, patient commitment to rehabilitation remains crucial. Athletes who follow physiotherapy regimens diligently often regain full strength and performance levels similar to, or even surpassing, their pre-injury condition,” said  Dr Ravindran, who also advised athletes and fitness enthusiasts to incorporate strengthening exercises into their routines.

-- BERNAMA