A sprain or strain can occur from a bowed or contact force to the forearm or hyperextension injury to the elbow due to contact sports such as football or wrestling, or when non-contact sports such as javelin throwing are done incorrectly. A dislocated elbow involves injury to the capsule, ligaments and muscle attachments around the joint and arm. The middle nerve that enters the palm of the hand becomes compressed causing severe pain and numbness. The affected areas include the index and middle finger, with thumb weakness. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is very common in workers constantly using computers, typewriters or screwdrivers.
Shoulder injuries can often be more complicated than they originally seem.
In severe conditions, ligaments may be completely torn. Characteristics of a sprain include rapid swelling, heat, immobility and discoloration. A large part of the central nervous system is devoted to the control of the hand. This makes the hand more prone to permanent problems with function, and it is absolutely necessary to get into a good rehab program after hand injuries or surgeries.