CARPAL BOSS

If you suffer from deformity or pain in the Hand or Wrist, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is a Carpal Boss?

Carpal Boss occurs when a patient develops a painful bony bump on the back of the wrist. This commonly occurs where the metacarpal bones of the fingers meet the carpal bones of the wrist. Also known as a carpometacarpal boss or bossing, this condition typically presents as a hard, immovable lump that can cause discomfort. This can occur especially during wrist movements or activities requiring gripping or lifting.

Ganglion cysts and other similar conditions can sometimes resemble a Carpal Boss, making accurate diagnosis crucial. Orthopedic specialists stress the importance of proper evaluation by a specialist to distinguish between these conditions and ensure appropriate treatment. Diagnostic techniques such as physical examination, X-rays, or MRI scans help in confirming the presence of a Carpal Boss and ruling out other possible issues.

Proper diagnosis and treatment can alleviate pain and improve wrist function. Moreover, allowing patients to resume their daily activities with less discomfort. Treatment options may include conservative measures like splinting and anti-inflammatory medications, or surgical intervention if necessary.

What Causes Carpal Boss?

Many different conditions can cause this deformity. Abnormal bone development during birth can lead to a condition known as carpal bossing, where certain wrist bones form incorrectly. Similarly, conditions such as arthritis can cause damage to the cartilage in the wrist joint, triggering the growth of bone spurs. These bone spurs can resemble a carpal boss and contribute to the condition. Additionally, repetitive overuse of the wrist, can lead to irritation of the cartilage, ultimately resulting in the development of bossing. Furthermore, traumatic impacts to the wrist, can cause bones to break and fuse together in an irregular manner, forming a carpal boss. These various factors underscore the multifaceted nature of carpal bossing and highlight the importance of understanding its different causes and contributing factors.

Carpal Boss Procedure

The Carpal Boss procedure aims to remove the painful bony bump that forms on the back of the wrist where the metacarpal and carpal bones meet. Surgeons begin by making an incision over the affected area to access the bony growth. They carefully excise the bony lump, ensuring they remove any associated soft tissue or ligament abnormalities contributing to the bump.

This procedure not only alleviates pain but also restores the wrist’s range of motion and functionality. Patients typically undergo the procedure under local or general anesthesia. However it can depend on the specific case and patient preference. Post-operatively, the surgical site is bandaged, and the patient may need to wear a splint to immobilize the wrist initially.

Recovery involves following a rehabilitation program with physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility in the wrist. With proper post-operative care and adherence to rehabilitation guidelines, patients can expect significant pain relief. Moreover, patients can improve their wrist function, allowing them to resume daily activities comfortably.

Carpal Boss Procedure Benefits

The Carpal Boss procedure offers significant benefits for patients experiencing pain and limited wrist mobility due to a bony bump where the metacarpal and carpal bones meet. By surgically removing the bony growth, the procedure effectively alleviates pain and discomfort that interfere with daily activities. Patients typically experience immediate relief from the chronic pain associated with this condition.

Additionally, the procedure restores wrist function and improves range of motion, allowing patients to perform tasks that were previously difficult or painful. This improvement in mobility enhances overall quality of life and allows patients to return to normal activities and work without restriction.

The Carpal Boss procedure also prevents potential complications, such as the development of associated ganglion cysts or further degeneration of the wrist joint. With successful surgery and proper rehabilitation, patients can expect long-term relief and a significant reduction in symptoms, leading to better wrist health and functionality.

Carpal Boss Recovery

Recovery from the Carpal Boss procedure involves several important steps to ensure optimal healing and restored wrist function. Initially, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs. The surgical site is typically bandaged, and patients may need to wear a splint or brace to immobilize the wrist and protect it during the early healing phase.

Physical therapy begins shortly after the procedure, starting with gentle exercises to improve range of motion and gradually progressing to strength-building exercises. Regular therapy sessions are crucial for monitoring progress and ensuring proper rehabilitation.

Patients must adhere to their surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care, activity restrictions, and rehabilitation exercises to promote healing and prevent complications. Most individuals can expect a significant reduction in pain and improved wrist mobility within a few weeks. Full recovery typically takes several months, but diligent adherence to the rehabilitation plan ensures the best possible outcome.

If you would like to speak to a Texas Orthopedic Hand and Wrist Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.