Your condition is most likely:
Congenital radial ray deficiency with thumb aplasia + elbow deformity
Treatment is absolutely possible, including both surgical and non-surgical options. But improvement—especially in adults—is partial, not complete.
Next step: Get X-rays of the hand, forearm, and elbow, and consult a hand surgeon / orthopedic surgeon specialized in congenital limb deformities.
Hello Rajpoot Thank you for sharing your experience. It sounds like you have a unique congenital condition affecting the structure and alignment of your arms and hands, which understandably can lead to emotional and psychological distress regarding appearance.
Here are some considerations: 1. Consultation with Specialists:It would be beneficial to consult with an orthopedic surgeon or a hand specialist who has experience with congenital conditions. They can assess your specific situation and provide options for improving function and appearance. 2. Surgical Options:Depending on the severity of the alignment issues, there may be surgical interventions available that could help straighten the elbows or improve the overall structure of your arms. A specialist can discuss the potential benefits and risks of such procedures. 3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy may help improve the range of motion and strength in your arms and hands. A therapist can also provide exercises tailored to your needs. 4. Psychological Support: Since you mentioned emotional distress, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can help you cope with the psychological aspects of your condition. Support groups for individuals with similar experiences can also be beneficial. 5. Assistive Devices: Depending on your daily activities, there may be assistive devices or adaptations that can help you perform tasks more comfortably and effectively.
It’s important to approach this with a comprehensive plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of your condition. If you have any specific questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.
Thank you
Hello,
Surgery is possible in some cases, but it depends on your exact bone structure. Options include: Corrective surgery to improve elbow or wrist alignment Limb-lengthening (major and slow surgery) Thumb reconstruction Prosthesis can be done
Not all cases can be fully corrected, but improvement is often possible.
You need an evaluation by an orthopedic surgeon (hand & upper limb specialist) with X-rays to know your exact options.
I hope this helps Thank you
Congenital limb differences like the ones you’re describing—issues with elbow extension and the absence of thumbs—often lead to questions about surgical intervention. As far as surgery goes, this type of condition can sometimes be addressed surgically, but there are several things to consider. In your case, surgical options might be a possibility for both functional and cosmetic improvement. However, surgery is typically considered when the functional limitation significantly impacts daily activities, or occasionally for psychological reasons when the appearance causes distress. It’s essential that a specialized orthopedic surgeon, particularly one experienced in congenital limb conditions, evaluates your specific situation.
Surgical procedures are generally more common to improve functionality, though cosmetic outcomes can also be discussed. As for non-surgical options, physical therapy might help to enhance function and possibly improve alignment through exercises that target specific muscles and joints. Occupational therapy can also provide adaptive techniques that might make daily tasks easier. Regarding diagnostics, imaging studies like X-rays or possibly MRIs can provide detailed information about the bone structure and alignment, essential for planning any potential surgical procedure or therapy. These tests help to visualize the internal anatomy and guide treatment decisions.
As for realistic improvement, the outcomes can vary widely depending on the exact nature of the structural differences and the interventions pursued. Functionally, there can be gains, especially if physical or occupational therapy is involved as part of comprehensive care. Cosmetic improvements can be more unpredictable, and it’s crucial to have a detailed discussion with a specialist to align expectations with what’s medically feasible. Be sure to consult with a specialist who can physically examine you and provide tailored recommendations based on their assessment and the investigative imaging. This step is important, as it can provide a comprehensive view of potential benefits and limitations of treatment options.
