Wrist and Hand Pain Evaluation with Dr. Brian Butzen in Durango, Colorado

Wrist and hand pain can make daily activities like typing, cooking, or playing sports feel like an uphill battle. Whether it’s a sudden injury or lingering discomfort, it’s essential to understand the cause and find the right treatment. Since 2013, Dr. Brian Butzen, a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic surgeon, has been helping patients in Durango, Colorado, and the Four Corners region find relief.

Dr. Butzen specializes in evaluating and treating wrist and hand pain caused by injuries, arthritis, and overuse conditions. Patients from Durango, Farmington, Pagosa Springs, and Cortez trust his expertise and compassionate care. His commitment to personalized treatment plans and lasting results has earned him a reputation as a reliable Durango orthopedic surgeon.

Common Causes of Wrist and Hand Pain

Wrist and hand pain can result from several conditions, each requiring a unique approach to treatment. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Hand and Wrist Injuries

  • Sprains and Strains: Ligament or tendon injuries caused by falls or sudden movements.

  • Fractures: Broken bones in the wrist or hand, often from sports or accidents.

  • Dislocations: When bones in the wrist or fingers are forced out of place.

2. Chronic Conditions

  • Arthritis: Inflammation in the joints, common in the wrist and fingers.

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerve compression in the wrist, causing numbness and tingling.

  • Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons from repetitive strain.

3. Overuse and Repetitive Motion

  • Typing, playing musical instruments, or sports like tennis can lead to overuse injuries.

What to Expect During a Wrist and Hand Pain Evaluation

Dr. Butzen takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing wrist and hand pain. During your evaluation, he will:

1. Discuss Your Symptoms

Dr. Butzen will ask about your pain, when it started, and what activities make it better or worse.

2. Perform a Physical Exam

He will examine your wrist and hand for swelling, tenderness, deformities, or limited range of motion.

3. Order Imaging Tests

If needed, X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to identify fractures, arthritis, or soft tissue injuries.

4. Conduct Special Tests

For conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Butzen may perform nerve conduction studies or physical tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Wrist and Hand Pain

After identifying the cause of your pain, Dr. Butzen will recommend a personalized treatment plan. Options may include:

1. Non-Surgical Treatments

  • Splints or Braces: To support the wrist or hand and reduce strain.

  • Physical Therapy: To strengthen muscles and improve mobility.

  • Injections: Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to reduce inflammation.

2. Surgical Treatments

For severe cases or injuries that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Butzen specializes in:

  • Carpal Tunnel Release

  • Fracture Repair

  • Tendon Repair Surgery

Why Choose Dr. Brian Butzen for Wrist and Hand Pain?

Extensive Experience

Dr. Butzen has been treating wrist and hand pain in Durango since 2013. His fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery gives him specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating complex conditions.

Personalized Care

Dr. Butzen believes that every patient deserves a treatment plan tailored to their unique goals. One patient from Pagosa Springs shared, “Dr. Butzen took the time to explain my options and helped me return to my favorite activities without pain.”

Commitment to the Community

As a long-time resident of Durango, Dr. Butzen is passionate about serving the Four Corners region. From outdoor enthusiasts to busy professionals, he helps patients of all backgrounds get back to what they love.

Success Stories from the Four Corners Region

Dr. Butzen’s patients consistently share how his care has transformed their lives:

  • A Pagosa Springs rancher said, “I thought I’d never fully recover from my wrist injury, but Dr. Butzen’s evaluation and treatment plan gave me my strength back.”

  • A Durango artist shared, “My hand pain was keeping me from painting. Thanks to Dr. Butzen, I’m back in my studio and pain-free.”

  • A Farmington teacher noted, “I had chronic wrist pain from typing all day. Dr. Butzen’s care made a huge difference, and now I can work comfortably again.”

Convenient Care Close to Home

Dr. Butzen sees patients at his main office in Durango and his satellite clinic in Pagosa Springs. This accessibility allows residents from Farmington, Cortez, and nearby communities to receive expert care without traveling far.

Schedule Your Wrist and Hand Pain Evaluation

Don’t let wrist or hand pain hold you back. Dr. Brian Butzen offers expert evaluations and personalized care to help you return to your daily activities pain-free. Call (970) 259-3020 today to schedule your consultation or visit [Brian Butzen MD’s website] to learn more.