SBF Sports & Hand Center

  SBF Sports & Hand Centre is a leading sports and physical therapy clinic in Singapore, specialising in helping athletes achieve perfect health. We have a team of highly certified doctors who are passionate about providing the best possible service to our patients. We offer a wide range of services, including joint pain, fractures, ligament tears and hand surgeries. We also offer physiotherapy to help athletes achieve their best results.  

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Preventing Carpal Tunnel | Symptoms to Watch Out For

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can often be prevented by taking proactive measures, particularly if you engage in activities that strain your wrists and hands. Here’s everything you need to know about carpal tunnel symptoms.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway made of bones and ligaments at the base of the hand. When this tunnel becomes narrowed or tissues around the median nerve swell, it compresses the nerve, leading to symptoms.

CTS is frequently associated with repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, and conditions like diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and rheumatoid arthritis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage and maintain hand function. Treatment options range from lifestyle modifications and wrist splints to medications and, in severe cases, surgical intervention.

What are Major Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is characterized by a range of symptoms primarily affecting the hand and wrist, stemming from the compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. Here are the major symptoms to watch for:

 1. Numbness and Tingling:

    - Location: Most commonly affects the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. The pinky finger is usually not involved.

    - Timing: Symptoms often occur at night or upon waking. They can also be triggered by activities that involve bending the wrist, such as holding a phone or steering wheel.

 2. Pain:

    - Nature: Pain can be sharp or aching and may radiate up the forearm toward the shoulder.

    - Location: Often localized in the wrist and hand but can extend to the arm.

 3. Hand Weakness:

    - Symptoms: Difficulty in performing tasks that require fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or holding small objects.

    - Grip Strength: A noticeable reduction in grip strength, leading to a tendency to drop objects.

 4. Swollen Sensation:

    - Feeling: A sensation of swelling in the fingers and hand, even if no visible swelling is present.

 5. Reduced Dexterity:

    - Impact: Difficulty in performing precise movements, such as typing or playing a musical instrument.

 6. Burning Sensation:

    - Description: A burning feeling in the fingers or hand, which can be particularly uncomfortable and disruptive.

 7. Hand Clumsiness:

    - Symptoms: A general sense of clumsiness or awkwardness in hand movements.

 Progression of Symptoms:

    - Symptoms typically start gradually and may come and go initially. As the condition worsens, symptoms can become more persistent and severe, significantly affecting daily activities and sleep quality.

 When to Seek Medical Advice:

   - If you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they persist or worsen, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent permanent nerve damage and improve treatment outcomes.

Understanding and recognizing these symptoms can help in seeking timely medical intervention, potentially avoiding more severe complications associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Help Your Symptoms?

Yes, treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve hand function. Early intervention is crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage. Non-surgical treatments include wrist splints, which keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy exercises can also strengthen the wrist and improve flexibility.

For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation. If these methods fail, surgical options like carpal tunnel release surgery can be effective. This procedure involves cutting the ligament and pressing on the median nerve to relieve pressure.

With appropriate treatment, many individuals experience substantial symptom relief and improved quality of life. Consulting a healthcare professional early can ensure the most effective treatment plan.

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Preserving Precision | Modern Approaches to Hand Injury Treatment

The human hand is made up of multiple parts. A complex structure is formed of nineteen bones, several tendons and ligaments, three nerves (median, ulnar, and radial), and the skin. Our hands play an important role in our lives.

They assist us in a wide range of jobs, from heavy-duty to delicate. Such a variety of movements and jobs can result in settings and scenarios that are harmful to your hands.

Hand injuries can occur for a variety of causes. Surprisingly, the injury could be caused by overuse and normal wear and tear. The injury might occur when participating in sports or at work. With hand injury treatment, you can get much-needed relief.

What Are Different Hand Treatment Options?

R.I.C.E Method

The RICE method is rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This four-step treatment method works well for mild to moderate hand injuries, including sprains, strains, and tendonitis.

If you have an acute hand injury, you should rest your hand for 24 to 48 hours. 

To minimize inflammation, apply cold packs for 15-20 minutes at a time every few hours. Compression, such as a hand brace or bandage, can also help to reduce any kind of swelling. While resting your hand, raise it on a pillow to assist in reducing swelling.

While rest, ice, compression, and elevation are often suggested for mild to moderate hand complications, we recommend that you see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is an important part of treating all forms of hand injuries, from mild to severe. If you damage your hand, we will let you know if you could benefit from physical treatment.

If your injury is minor, our experts may recommend home workouts to help you restore strength as your hand heals. 

For more serious injuries, we may recommend a series of physical therapy sessions as part of your rehabilitation. Regular physical therapy may help reduce pain and stiffness in chronic illnesses such as arthritis.

Physical therapy is one of the most effective techniques to regain function after a hand injury. Targeted workouts can help build strength, enhance mobility, and lower the chance of injury in the future.

Anti-Inflammatory Injection 

With our technological innovations, we can provide the right non-operative care to our patients. We encourage conservative therapies such as the RICE method and physical therapy whenever possible, but if these aren't adequate, anti-inflammatory injections may be an option for you.

Steroid and anaesthetic medications are commonly used in anti-inflammatory injections. The steroids target inflammation, while the anaesthetic treats pain.

Braces & Splits

In certain cases, immobilization techniques such as braces and splints can relieve discomfort and symptoms or worsen the condition.

To protect the injured bones, the affected area is immobilized. For instance, wrist splinting is one of the main courses of treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Occupational Therapy

Specialized occupational therapists are required for hand rehabilitation, as well as upper limb or wrist rehabilitation. Occupational therapy helps with daily duties such as writing, cooking, brushing teeth, and so on.

The goal is to improve and maintain the hand's functionality. Sprains, broken bones, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other injuries can benefit from this type of therapy.

Hand Surgery

Hand surgery is the right option if you've suffered a severe accident and want to keep your hand functioning. If you have a chronic hand injury that hasn't improved with non-surgical therapy, we may propose surgery.

If you've had serious damage, such as a serious fracture, or if you have tendon injuries, such as a trigger finger or hammer finger, we can prescribe hand surgery. If you have a hand injury, we can help you recover. To learn more, book an appointment at SBF Sportshand today.

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What should you avoid after a wrist fracture?

After a wrist fracture, it is important to take specific precautions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.Do not use your injured wrist for lifting, pushing, pulling, or any heavy activities until it is fully healed, as it may delay recovery or cause further damage.Keep the cast, splint, or brace on as advised by your doctor. Removing it too soon can cause misalignment or incomplete healing.

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How much is knee replacement surgery in Singapore?

The cost of knee replacement surgery in Singapore can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital, surgeon's fees, type of implant used, and whether it's a partial or total knee replacement. On average, the cost ranges from SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000. This typically includes pre-surgery consultations, the surgery itself, hospital stay, and post-operative care.If you have insurance, it's important to check with your provider to understand what portion of the cost will be covered.

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Ankle swelling treatment:How can I stop my ankles swelling?

To stop ankle swelling, it's important to address the underlying cause and follow some general care tips. Avoid standing or walking for prolonged periods to give your ankles time to heal.Keep your ankles elevated above heart level whenever possible, especially when resting or sleeping. This helps reduce fluid buildup.

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How much is normal knee surgery in Singapore?

The cost of knee surgery in Singapore can vary depending on the type of surgery and the hospital or clinic. Generally, for procedures like arthroscopy, the cost can range from SGD 10,000 to SGD 15,000. More complex surgeries, such as knee replacement, can cost between SGD 20,000 and SGD 30,000 or more.

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Wrist injury treatment: How to heal a sore wrist quickly?

To heal a sore wrist quickly, avoid activities that strain your wrist. Resting is crucial for recovery.Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and numb the pain.Use a wrist brace or wrap to provide support and reduce swelling.If the pain persists or if you suspect a fracture or serious injury, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

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How much time to recover from ankle ligament surgery ?

Recovery time from ankle ligament surgery can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the type of surgery performed, and the individual's overall health. Rest and elevate the ankle to reduce swelling.Use crutches or a walker to avoid putting weight on the ankle.Complete recovery can take up to a year, especially for high-demand activities like sports.

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Shoulder pain treatment | Will shoulder pain go away?

Shoulder pain can be a common issue and its persistence depends on the underlying cause. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and cause of the pain.If the shoulder pain is due to overuse or a minor injury, resting the shoulder and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.If your shoulder pain persists for more than a few weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or a decrease in shoulder mobility, it’s important to consult with a doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

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Wrist injury treatment - When to see a doctor

If you experience a wrist injury, it is essential to know when to seek medical attention.If the pain is intense and doesn't improve with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers.Significant swelling or bruising that doesn't subside after a couple of days.Difficulty moving your wrist or hand, or if you cannot perform daily activities.Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent complications and promote faster recovery.

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Bunion surgery Singapore | Is bunion surgery expensive?

Bunion surgery in Singapore can be expensive, and the cost can vary depending on several factors including the type of surgery, the surgeon's experience, the hospital or clinic, and whether any complications arise. Generally, you can expect the cost to range from SGD 5,000 to SGD 15,000.It's advisable to consult with a few specialists to get a detailed cost estimate and understand what is included in the surgery package.

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Rotator Cuff Treatment : Why Does It Hurt?

Rotator cuff injuries can be quite painful due to several factors.Inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons can cause sharp pain, especially during overhead activities.The subacromial bursa, a fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between the rotator cuff tendons and the acromion, can become inflamed. When the rotator cuff tendons are compressed under the acromion, it results in impingement syndrome.Rotator cuff injuries are painful due to inflammation, tendon tears, muscle weakness, and other related factors.

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Knee replacement Singapore | How many years does a knee replacement last?

A knee replacement typically lasts between 15 to 20 years. However, the longevity of a knee replacement can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, activity level, weight, and overall health. Advances in surgical techniques and materials have also contributed to longer-lasting knee replacements.

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How much does wrist injury treatment cost in Singapore ?

The cost of wrist injury treatment in Singapore can vary widely depending on the nature and severity of the injury, the type of treatment required, and the healthcare facility.These costs can vary based on the specific hospital or clinic, the complexity of the procedure, and whether the patient has insurance coverage. It's advisable to consult directly with healthcare providers in Singapore for more accurate and personalized cost estimates.

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Knee surgery singapore | Is knee surgery the right option ?

Deciding whether knee surgery is the right option depends on several factors, including the severity of your condition, the specific diagnosis, and your overall health.If you're considering knee surgery in Singapore, it's important to weigh these factors and have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.

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Knee replacement Singapore | Is a knee replacement very painful?

Knee replacement surgery can involve significant discomfort, but pain levels vary from person to person. Right after surgery, you'll likely experience some pain and swelling. This is managed with pain medications, ice, and elevation.Pain generally decreases as you recover. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing pain and restoring function.

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How much time to recover from ankle ligament surgery ?

Recovery time from ankle ligament surgery varies depending on several factors, including the extent of the injury, the type of surgery performed, the individual's overall health, and adherence to post-operative rehabilitation. Initial recovery involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce swelling and pain.Individual recovery times can vary, so it’s essential to follow the surgeon's and physical therapist's guidelines throughout the rehabilitation process.