Wrist Arthritis (SNAC/SLAC)
Wrist Arthritis (SNAC/SLAC) Care Focused on Function
Wrist arthritis can make simple tasks like lifting a cup, typing on a keyboard, or turning a doorknob feel painful and limiting. When the wrist joint wears down over time, especially after certain ligament injuries or fractures, you may notice stiffness, aching, and weakness that affect your daily life.
At Upper Extremity ATX, we focus specifically on conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder, including wrist arthritis patterns such as SNAC and SLAC. Our goal is to help you understand what is happening in your wrist and discuss potential care options that may be appropriate for your situation, so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.
Understanding SNAC and SLAC Wrist Arthritis
SNAC (scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse) and SLAC (scapholunate advanced collapse) describe patterns of wrist arthritis that can develop after prior injury to important wrist structures. These patterns are associated with changes in the joint surfaces that may be linked with pain during motion or gripping, and with reduced range of motion.
When you visit Upper Extremity ATX, the team takes time to listen to your symptoms and how they affect your work, hobbies, and daily activities. That information is paired with a focused physical examination and, when appropriate, imaging studies to better understand the specific pattern and stage of your wrist arthritis.
Some people describe symptoms that come and go or are mainly related to certain activities. Others may report more frequent discomfort, decreased grip strength, difficulty bearing weight through the wrist, or a sense of grinding with movement. The role of the visit is to clearly explain what these findings may indicate for your wrist and what options may be reasonable to consider.
Care Options Tailored to Your Needs
Wrist arthritis related to SNAC or SLAC patterns can be approached with a range of non-surgical and surgical options. What may be discussed depends on factors such as your symptoms, goals, and examination and imaging findings.
Non-surgical approaches may be discussed for certain stages of wrist arthritis or for individuals who prefer to avoid surgery. When surgery is part of the conversation, different procedures may be reviewed in terms of how they are typically performed and how they may relate to pain, function, and motion for SNAC and SLAC wrists. Each option has its own general recovery course and expected impact on motion and strength, which can be reviewed with you.
At Upper Extremity ATX, there is an emphasis on clear explanation of the potential benefits, limitations, and trade-offs of each approach so you can choose a path that aligns with your lifestyle and expectations. Any plan is individualized rather than one-size-fits-all.
Examples of what you may gain from seeking evaluation for SNAC/SLAC wrist arthritis include:
What to Expect During Your Visit
A visit for wrist arthritis at Upper Extremity ATX typically begins with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, prior injuries, and any previous treatment. This is followed by a focused examination of your wrist and surrounding joints, and a review of any existing imaging. If additional imaging is considered helpful, this can be discussed with you, including what types of studies are being considered and why.
Once there is a clearer picture of your wrist condition, the findings are explained in straightforward terms. You have the opportunity to ask questions and talk through different potential care paths. The aim is to provide the information you need, without pressure, so you can decide how you would like to move forward.
If a procedure is part of the discussion, the team can review what the process typically involves, from preparation through general recovery timelines. This may include typical activity restrictions and what people often report as their wrist heals, so you can plan ahead in a way that feels right for you.
Why Choose Upper Extremity ATX for Wrist Arthritis Care
Upper Extremity ATX is built around focused care for the upper extremity, including complex patterns of wrist arthritis such as SNAC and SLAC. Led by fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon Travis Doering, MD, the practice is dedicated to conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder, so concerns about your wrist receive focused attention.
The clinic combines evidence-informed decision-making with an individualized approach. This means current orthopedic knowledge is considered alongside your age, activity level, work demands, and personal goals. Emphasis is placed on thorough assessment, clear explanations, and realistic discussion of options, so you feel informed and involved at every step.
The goal at Upper Extremity ATX is to help you better understand your wrist arthritis and to support you as you consider the care path that fits you best.
Take the First Step Toward Better Wrist Function
If pain, weakness, or stiffness from wrist arthritis (SNAC/SLAC) is limiting your daily life, we are ready to help you understand your options and plan a path forward. At Upper Extremity ATX, we will evaluate your specific condition and discuss personalized treatment choices. To request an appointment or ask questions, please contact us today.
Upper Extremity ATX — Fellowship-trained hand, upper extremity, and peripheral nerve surgery. Located at the Austin Surgical Plaza – 6818 Austin Center Blvd, Suite 207, Austin TX. Better care, by design.
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