Cut tendon or nerve in the hand or arm

Overview

Even small cuts can cut tendons.

Tendons that bend the fingers are on the palm side; tendons that straighten them are on the back of the hand.

Nerve injuries cause numbness on one side of a finger and need repair to restore feeling.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Cut with weakness or numbness

Less common

• Bleeding
• Finger held in an odd position

When to get medical care

Causes

Cuts.

Diagnosis

Exam.

The exam

Finger movement and feeling.

Treatment

Get care.

Self-care

• Pressure to stop bleeding
• Press firmly on the cut with a clean cloth for 10 minutes
• Raise the hand above the heart
• Don't test the finger by forcing it
• After surgery: follow hand therapy exactly

Surgery.

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Use cut-resistant gloves for knives and glass
• Cut away from your hand

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to a hand surgeon.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Children: May not say a finger is numb; watch how they use the hand.

Outlook

Repair works.

Most people regain good use with surgery and therapy, though stiffness can linger.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• Tetanus shot date

Questions to ask

• How long will I wear a splint?
• When can I go back to work?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Cut tendon or nerve in the hand or arm