Hand & Wrist Sarasota, FL
Christopher L. Dillingham, M.D.
(941) 378-5100
5831 Bee Ridge Rd
Suite 300
Sarasota, FL 34233
Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Specialties Include
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Fractures of the Hand & Wrist
- Tendon Injuries
- Nerve Injuries
- Arthritis of the Hand & Wrist
- Wrist Arthroscopy
- Cutting Edge Physical Therapy
Fellowship-Trained Hand and Wrist Surgeon
Dr. Christopher Dillingham is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in conditions of the hand and wrist. His fellowship in Hand, Shoulder, and Arm Surgery at the University of Florida provided intensive training in the intricate anatomy of the hand and wrist, equipping him with the expertise to treat everything from common conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome to complex fractures, tendon injuries, and nerve repairs.
Common Hand & Wrist Conditions We Treat
The hand and wrist are made up of bones, joints, a dense network of tendons, and three major nerves all working in concert to perform tasks as delicate as threading a needle and as demanding as gripping a wrench. When any part of that system is disrupted, whether by injury, degeneration, or nerve compression, the impact on daily life can be significant.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common nerve conditions affecting the hand. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, often worsening at night or during repetitive hand activities.
Dr. Dillingham offers conservative treatment options including wrist splinting, activity modification, and corticosteroid injections. For patients who do not improve with non-surgical care, he may perform endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, a minimally invasive technique that releases pressure on the nerve through a small incision with a faster return to daily activities compared to traditional open release.
Fractures of the Hand & Wrist
Fractures in the hand and wrist can range from a simple broken finger to complex injuries involving multiple bones or the joint surface. Treatment depends on the location, type, and stability of the fracture. Dr. Dillingham treats fractures of the fingers, metacarpals (hand bones), and wrist bones, using casting or splinting when appropriate and surgical fixation when a more stable repair is needed.
Tendon Injuries
The tendons in the hand and wrist control the movement of each finger and the wrist itself. Cuts, tears, or ruptures can significantly limit hand function and often require surgical repair. Dr. Dillingham performs both flexor and extensor tendon repairs to restore movement and strength, followed by a guided rehabilitation program to optimize recovery.
Nerve Injuries
Nerve damage in the hand or wrist can result from lacerations, crush injuries, or chronic compression. Symptoms may include numbness, loss of sensation, weakness, or difficulty with fine motor tasks. Dr. Dillingham evaluates and surgically repairs nerve injuries in the hand and wrist to help patients regain function.
Arthritis of the Hand & Wrist
Arthritis in the joints of the hand and wrist can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty gripping or pinching. Common forms include osteoarthritis at the base of the thumb (CMC joint arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis affecting multiple joints. Dr. Dillingham provides conservative treatment options as well as surgical procedures for patients whose symptoms are not adequately managed without surgery.
Wrist Arthroscopy
Dr. Dillingham performs arthroscopic surgery of the wrist to diagnose and treat conditions such as cartilage injuries (TFCC tears), loose bodies, ganglion cysts, and chronic wrist pain. Wrist arthroscopy uses small incisions and a camera, allowing treatment with less tissue disruption and a shorter recovery than traditional open surgery.
Our Approach to Hand & Wrist Care
Dr. Dillingham begins every patient visit with a careful evaluation and an honest conversation about treatment options. He explores conservative approaches first, including splinting, therapy, medication, and regenerative treatments. When surgery is the right choice, his fellowship training allows him to select the technique best suited to each patient’s condition and goals.
Get Expert Care for Your Hand or Wrist
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, weakness, or limited motion in your hand or wrist, Dr. Dillingham can help. Schedule a consultation to get an accurate diagnosis and a clear treatment plan.