Identifying Broken Fingers and Treating Them

Dr. Ian B. Lawson is active in the Washington medical community and leads an orthopedic practice in Gig Harbor. With experience treating a wide range of hand injuries, Ian B. Lawson, MD, is knowledgeable about broken fingers.

With the fingers one of the most common body parts to injure, distinguishing between a bruise or broken bone can be challenging. Several symptoms of a break, such as swelling, severe pain, redness, and finger deformity, are also present with serious bruises. While loss of range of motion is another major symptom, this is not present in every case. Some broken fingers will simply feature dull pain, with a full range of motion intact. With finger fractures, there will likely be more immediate pain and an inability to perform normal movements.

Another symptom to watch for is fingers that stiffen and become numb because of nerve compression or the trauma associated with injury. In distal phalanx or fingertip fracture, the finger pad will swell considerably, and subungual hematoma (blood of a purple hue under the fingernail) may be visible.

With minor fractures and breaks, have a physician tape the affected finger to its neighbor to minimize movement. A splint can hold the finger rigid if necessary and wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling. The orthopedic physician will likely need to take X-rays and see whether further intervention is necessary.

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Causes and Treatment of Olecranon Fractures in the Elbow

Based in Gig Harbor, Washington, Ian B. Lawson, MD, provides surgical treatments for complex injuries of the hand and wrist. Dr. Ian B. Lawson’s areas of extensive knowledge includes elbow conditions such as olecranon fractures.

Olecranon fractures involve a break in the pointy tip of the ulna, which comes together with two other elbow bones to create a joint. Unfortunately, the ulna is not protected by soft tissue and lies directly under the skin. A break can easily occur in cases of falls on the elbow tip or direct blows to the elbow. A fracture not only constricts and prevents elbow motion, but can also be extremely painful.

Olecranon fractures vary widely in their morphology, with some involving just a small crack and others involving a break into fragments. The pieces of bone can line up straight or be displaced. In certain cases, a wound may penetrate to the bone, or the bone may fragment such that pieces stick out through the skin. These open fractures are extremely problematic, as there is a significant likelihood of infection of the bone and wound.

Treatment starts with taking X-rays and typically includes the application of a splint and sling to keep the elbow in a resting position. In cases where the bones are not out of place, the fracture may simply be treated through the use of a splint and brace during healing. Typically, these need to be worn for 6 weeks before the patient can resume gentle motion. In cases of a displaced or open fracture, a surgical approach may be required. This involves resetting the bones and holding them immobile for an extended period.

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Seattle Seahawks Gives Money to Support Girls Flag Football Teams

A resident of Gig Harbor, Washington, Ian B. Lawson, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon with a career spanning nearly three decades. Outside of his career in orthopedics, Dr. Ian B. Lawson is a fan of the Seattle Seahawks football team.

In March 2023, the Seattle Seahawks announced that it had committed $57,000 to six Washington school districts to launch girls’ flag football teams. Kent, Mercer, North River, Oakville School Districts, Federal Way Public Schools, and Highline Public Schools are a few recipients. In addition to the funding, recipients will get an NFL Flag Football equipment kit, a courtesy of USA Football, and home/away, courtesy of Nike.

This commitment is a part of the Seahawks 2022 commitment of $250,000 allocated to support girls’ flag football programs over the next five years. Seattle Seahawks director of youth & high school football programs, Paul Johns, stated that providing equitable opportunities for youths to play is essential.

Johns also stated the ball club is interested in seeing how interest in girls’ flag football will increase in the next few years. Interested high schools can visit http://www.seahawks.com/community/football/girls-flag-grant to apply for future grant opportunities.

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The Importance of Physical Therapy in Orthopedic Surgery Recovery

Dr. Ian B. Lawson received his medical degree from the University of British Columbia in 1986 and has since become an accomplished physician. From 2000-2009, Ian B. Lawson, MD, was a member of the Mountain Orthopedic Specialists in Tacoma, Washington, where he served as an orthopedic surgeon.

In the healing process following orthopedic surgery, physical therapy plays a crucial role. Patients may experience weakness, stiffness, and tenderness after surgery due to lack of movement and the strain of surgery. Physical therapy can help patients rebuild muscle strength and promote mobility.

One of the significant benefits of physical therapy is improved muscle strength. During recovery, patients receive a personalized therapy and exercise plan. Proper physical therapy allows patients to rebuild their muscle strength to their optimal functional levels, allowing them to return to their regular activities. Exercises target weakened muscles and tissues, increasing flexibility, range of motion, and overall function.

Another benefit of physical therapy is improved mobility. Patients may experience reduced mobility after surgery, which can be frustrating. While rest is crucial, it’s essential to prevent further mobility loss. Physical therapy regimens of stretching and exercise can help patients regain mobility and quickly start using their muscles regularly.

Physical therapy also enhances circulation, which is critical to the healing process. After surgery, patients may spend a lot of time lying in bed or sitting, leading to restricted blood flow. Poor circulation can increase healing time, pain, and the risk of infection.

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