Trusted Treatment for Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Conditions

If you've ever had questions or concerns about treating hands, wrists, or elbows, our own Dr. Jerome Oakey is the go-to expert! As the only hand specialist in the Bloomington-Normal area, he has been on the Carle McLean County Orthopedics team for nearly 20 years! He recently shared his expertise in a radio interview on WJBC, discussing common issues, diagnosis processes, and treatment options for hands, wrists, and elbows at CMCO.

Dr. Oakey described appointments as a collective effort to meet patients' goals by creating a comfortable atmosphere and minimally invasive treatment plans. He explained, "We work with patients in a very collaborative manner to figure out what the best treatment is for them, for their specific point in life, and specific health goals."

Two common hand and wrist conditions he treats are carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and arthritis. Defined as a compression of a nerve that goes through the wrist, CTS can cause tingling and numbness in the hand. Additionally, a loss of cartilage indicates arthritis and results in rough and irritated gliding surfaces. Dr. Oakey says his main goal is to minimize the painful and uncomfortable symptoms, which depends on each unique patient's preferred timeline and comfort level. He also told WJBC listeners that he works closely with the hand therapists at CMCO to provide relief for his patients.

Athletes also come to Dr. Oakey for sports-related injuries; one of the most common is Tommy John surgery, often due to an overuse of the ligaments on the inside portion of the elbow. Dr. Oakey stated that activity modification in a therapy process could help treat this and commended the therapy options at CMCO as they can help assess additional needs an elbow patient may have, such as shoulder therapy. Ultimately, Dr. Oakey respects patients' return-to-play expectations and avoids surgeries when possible. It's no wonder the community holds him in such high esteem!

To resolve chronic issues or sudden injuries in the hands, wrists, or elbows, call CMCO at (309) 663-6461 today to schedule an appointment.

Find the full interview between Blake and Dr. Jerome Oakey below.