Can operate is possible for natural arms issue

Question #17510

169 days ago

248

Can operate is possible for natural arms issue - #17510

Rajpoot

Hello Doctor, I would like to get a professional opinion regarding a congenital (by birth) condition affecting my arms, elbows, and hands. Since birth, my elbow joints are not straight, and when I extend my arms, they do not fully straighten like normal arms. Both arms are affected. This appears to be related to the structure and alignment of my elbow joints, not due to any injury or accident. Additionally, I have four fingers on each hand and no thumb (congenital absence of the thumb). The length of my arms is slightly shorter than average. Functionally, I am able to perform most daily activities using my hands and fingers. I do not experience severe pain, and my condition has been stable over time. However, the main concern is the appearance, alignment, and overall structure, which causes emotional and psychological distress. I would like to ask: 1. Whether this type of congenital condition is treatable through surgery at any stage of life 2. If surgery is possible, whether it is usually done only for functional improvement or also for structural or cosmetic correction 3. If surgery is not advisable, are there any non-surgical approaches that could improve alignment or function 4. What diagnostic tests or imaging (such as X-rays, MRI, or others) would normally be required to properly assess my case 5. What level of realistic improvement could be expected I understand that online consultation cannot replace physical examination. I am only requesting an initial professional opinion to help me decide on future medical steps. Thank you very much for your time and consideration.

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Doctors' responses

Dr. Bharat Joshi

I’m a periodontist and academician with a strong clinical and teaching background. Over the last 4 years and 8 months, I’ve been actively involved in dental education, guiding students at multiple levels including dental hygienist, BDS, and MDS programs. Currently, I serve as a Reader at MMCDSR in Ambala, Haryana—a role that allows me to merge my academic passion with hands-on experience. Clinically, I’ve been practicing dentistry for the past 12 years. From routine procedures like scaling and root planing to more advanced cases involving grafts, biopsies, and implant surgeries. Honestly, I still find joy in doing a simple RCT when it’s needed. It’s not just about the procedure but making sure the patient feels comfortable and safe. Academically, I have 26 research publications to my credit. I’m on the editorial boards of the Archives of Dental Research and Journal of Dental Research and Oral Health, and I’ve spent a lot of time reviewing manuscripts—from case reports to meta-analyses and even book reviews. I was honored to receive the “Best Editor” award by Innovative Publications, and Athena Publications recognized me as an “excellent reviewer,” which honestly came as a bit of a surprise! In 2025, I had the opportunity to present a guest lecture in Italy on traumatic oral lesions. Sharing my work and learning from peers globally has been incredibly fulfilling. Outside academics and clinics, I’ve also worked in the pharmaceutical sector as a Drug Safety Associate for about 3 years, focusing on pharmacovigilance. That role really sharpened my attention to detail and deepened my understanding of drug interactions and adverse effects. My goal is to keep learning, and give every patient and student my absolute best.

169 days ago

Hello dear
Yes there is a lot of improvement in medical technology for replacement of missing thumbs
Iam suggesting some options
Non surgical
Prosthetic replacement
Adaptive devices
If possible training for good functioning
Surgical treatment
Polisization surgery
Thumb reconstruction by grafts and soft tissues
Microsurgery
Kindly get the best treatment done from cosmetic/ general surgeon for good success
Regards

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Dr. Shayeque Reza

I completed my medical degree in 2023, but honestly, my journey in healthcare started way before that. Since 2018, I’ve been actively involved in clinical practice—getting hands-on exposure across multiple departments like ENT, pediatrics, dermatology, ophthalmology, medicine, and emergency care. One of the most intense and defining phases of my training was working at a District Government Hospital for a full year during the COVID pandemic. It was chaotic, unpredictable, and exhausting—but it also grounded me in real-world medicine like no textbook ever could. Over time, I’ve worked in both OPD and IPD setups, handling everything from mild viral fevers to more stubborn, long-term conditions. These day-to-day experiences really built my base and taught me how to stay calm when things get hectic—and how to adjust fast when plans don’t go as expected. What I’ve learned most is that care isn't only about writing the right medicine. It’s about being fully there, listening properly, and making sure the person feels seen—not just treated. Alongside clinical work, I’ve also been exposed to preventive health, health education, and community outreach. These areas really matter to me because I believe real impact begins outside the hospital, with awareness and early intervention. My approach is always centered around clarity, empathy, and clinical logic—I like to make sure every patient knows exactly what’s going on and why we’re doing what we’re doing. I’ve always felt a pull towards general medicine and internal care, and honestly, I’m still learning every single day—each patient brings a new lesson. Medicine never really sits still, it keeps shifting, and I try to shift with it. Not just in terms of what I know, but also in how I listen and respond. For me, it’s always been about giving real care. Genuine, respectful, and the kind that actually helps a person heal—inside and out.

168 days ago

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.

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Dr. Prasannajeet Singh Shekhawat

I am a 2023 batch passout and working as a general physician right now, based in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Still kinda new in the bigger picture maybe, but honestly—every single day in this line teaches you more than textbooks ever could. I’ve had the chance to work under some pretty respected doctors during and after my graduation, not just for the clinical part but also to see how they handle people, real people, in pain, in panic, and sometimes just confused about their own health. General medicine covers a lot, right? Like from the smallest complaints to those random, vague symptoms that no one really understands at first—those are kinda my zone now. I don’t really rush to label things, I try to spend time actually listening. Feels weird to say it but ya, I do take that part seriously. Some patients just need someone to hear the whole story instead of jumping to prescription pads after 30 seconds. Right now, my practice includes everything from managing common infections, blood pressure issues, sugar problems to more layered cases where symptoms overlap and you gotta just... piece things together. It's not glamorous all the time, but it's real. I’ve handled a bunch of seasonal disease waves too, like dengue surges and viral fevers that hit rural belts hard—Hanumangarh doesn’t get much spotlight but there’s plenty happening out here. Also, I do rely on basics—thorough history, solid clinical exam and yeah when needed, investigations. But not over-prescribing things just cz they’re there. One thing I picked up from the senior consultants I worked with—they used to say “don’t chase labs, chase the patient’s story”... stuck with me till now. Anyway, still learning every single day tbh. But I like that. Keeps me grounded and kind of obsessed with trying to get better.

168 days ago

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

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Dr. Arsha K Isac

I am a general dentist with 3+ years of working in real-world setups, and lemme say—every single patient teaches me something diff. It’s not just teeth honestly, it’s people… and how they feel walking into the chair. I try really hard to not make it just a “procedure thing.” I explain stuff in plain words—no confusing dental jargon, just straight talk—coz I feel like when ppl *get* what's going on, they feel safer n that makes all the difference. Worked with all ages—like, little kids who need that gentle nudge about brushing, to older folks who come in with long histories and sometimes just need someone to really sit n listen. It’s weirdly rewarding to see someone walk out lighter, not just 'coz their toothache's gone but coz they felt seen during the whole thing. A lot of ppl come in scared or just unsure, and I honestly take that seriously. I keep the vibe calm. Try to read their mood, don’t rush. I always tell myself—every smile’s got a story, even the broken ones. My thing is: comfort first, then precision. I want the outcome to last, not just look good for a week. Not tryna claim perfection or magic solutions—just consistent, clear, hands-on care where patients feel heard. I think dentistry should *fit* the person, not push them into a box. That's kinda been my philosophy from day one. And yeah, maybe sometimes I overexplain or spend a bit too long checking alignment again but hey, if it means someone eats pain-free or finally smiles wide in pics again? Worth it. Every time.

169 days ago

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

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Dr. Aarav Deshmukh

I am a general physician with 8 years of practice, mostly in urban clinics and semi-rural setups. I began working right after MBBS in a govt hospital in Kerala, and wow — first few months were chaotic, not gonna lie. Since then, I’ve seen 1000s of patients with all kinds of cases — fevers, uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, infections, you name it. I usually work with working-class patients, and that changed how I treat — people don’t always have time or money for fancy tests, so I focus on smart clinical diagnosis and practical treatment. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in preventive care — like helping young adults with early metabolic issues. I also counsel a lot on diet, sleep, and stress — more than half the problems start there anyway. I did a certification in evidence-based practice last year, and I keep learning stuff online. I’m not perfect (nobody is), but I care. I show up, I listen, I adjust when I’m wrong. Every patient needs something slightly different. That’s what keeps this work alive for me.

167 days ago

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.

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