Hand Doctors Explain Causes of Bumps on the Hands or Wrists
(Part 2)
Sudden or unexplained bumps on the hand or wrist can cause you to worry. But the good news is that these are typically fairly common and are almost always benign (non-cancerous) as well as easily treated by a hand doctor.
Dr. Rehman is a board certified hand doctor who has diagnosed and treated hundreds of patients with “lumps and bumps” on their hans and wrists in the Bloomfield Hills, Clarkston and Waterford MI area.
In this two part article Doctor Rehman discusses some of the causes of bumps on the hands or wrists. (CLICK HERE for Part 1 of this Article.)
#4. Bumps on the Hands or Wrist: Carpal Boss
While Carpal Boss is a strange sounding name, it simply refers to an overgrowth of bone on the back of the hand. It is similar in appearance to a bone spur. The “lump” is actually caused by a small area of osteoarthritis occurring at where the long hand bones and small wrist bones meet. Carpal Boss bumps are frequently misdiagnosed as a ganglion cyst, so it is important to see a board certified hand doctor to diagnose the lump or bump on your hand or wrist.
A carpal boss will be firmer and fixed in its position, unlike a ganglion cyst which you can usually feel move “give” when you press on it.
Typical carpal boss “bumps” respond well to conservative treatment approaches. Dr. Rehman usually starts with non-surgical methods such as activity modification, splinting, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide more targeted relief.
If conservative measures fail to alleviate symptoms, or if the carpal boss is significantly interfering with hand function, surgical excision may be considered. The procedure involves removing the bony prominence and, if necessary, repairing any associated soft tissue damage. Post-operative care includes wound management, pain control, and a structured physical therapy and rehabilitation program to restore wrist mobility and strength.
#5. Bumps on the Hands or Wrist: Enchondroma
Enchondroma is a noncancerous type of tumor that develops when cartilage grows inside of a bone. Though usually benign, an enchondroma can become a problem if the tumor weakens the bone, increasing the risk of a fracture (broken bone).
Enchondromas typically don’t require treatment if they’re small and asymptomatic. However, in cases where the enchondroma is causing pain, increasing in size, or risking fracture, Dr. Uzma Rehman may recommend surgical intervention. The procedure, known as curettage, involves scraping out the tumor and filling the cavity with bone graft or bone cement.
In some cases, particularly for larger enchondromas, internal fixation with pins or plates may be necessary to ensure bone stability. Post-surgery, Dr. Rehman provides a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to restore hand function and monitors the site to prevent recurrence. It’s crucial to note that while rare, some enchondromas can become malignant, so regular follow-ups are essential even for untreated cases.
While only around one percent of Enchondromas develop into cancer, it is important to visit a board certified hand doctor to rule out this unlikely possibility. Enchondromas are most commonly treated by “curettage” in which a hand surgeon scrapes the tumor out of the bone. Once enchondromas are removed like this by your hand doctor, they usually will not return.
#6. Bumps on the Hands or Wrist: Sarcoma
Cancer very, very rarely originates on the hands or wrists – so there is no need to unduly worry if you have a bump or lump on your hand or wrist. However, there are some very rare cases where sarcomas (tumors) have formed in the bone or cartilage of the hand. These cancers represent less than one percent of all solid tumor malignancies in adults – and only 10% of this 1% will occur in the bones of the hands or wrists. So the likelihood of a sarcoma in the hand or wrist is a miniscule 1/10th of a percent.
It is not known what causes sarcoma, but family history and exposure to chemicals or radiation are believed to play a part. It is important to have this condition fully evaluated when there is a concern for a sarcoma.
Sarcomas require immediate and aggressive treatment by an oncologist (cancer doctor). The primary treatment is usually wide surgical excision, aiming to remove the tumor with clear margins to prevent recurrence. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy might also be recommended, especially for certain types of sarcomas or in cases where the cancer has spread. The extent of surgery can vary from local excision to more extensive procedures that may require reconstruction. Post-treatment, Dr. Rehman provides ongoing physical therapy and rehabilitation to maximize hand function.
While extremely rare, a sarcoma on the hand or wrist needs to be treated immediately so that the cancer does not spread.
Top Waterford Area Hand Doctor
If you are experiencing a lump or bump on your hand or wrist, there are a variety of causes. While most causes are very common and easily treated, a rare few can be more serious. For this reason it is important to be seen by a board certified hand surgeon like Doctor Rehman. She and her team of orthopedic experts will accurately diagnose your condition, and put together the best treatment plan to help you attain a full recovery.
As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like bumps or lumps on the hand or wrist.
Doctor Rehman will assess your individual situation, and prescribe the treatments that are best for your condition.
