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Scapholunate Ligament Injury (SLI)

The base of the wrist is composed of eight small carpal bones. The most frequently injured carpal bone is the scaphoid bone, which is located near the base of the thumb. Next to it, you will find the lunate bone which is attached to the scaphoid bone by the scapholunate ligament. Guess what winter sport causes the most Scapholunate Ligament injuries? If you guessed skiing due to falls and over-rotating ski poles, you are a winner. Snowboarding is also in the running.

  • Aching on the thumb side
  • Weakness holding a ski pole
  • Bruising on the palm
  • Clicking sound or popping in the wrist
  • Accompanying fractures of the hand
The long term success of Dr. Greenberg’s patients is attributed to a specialized approach to the examination process. Deemed “The Greenberg Method,” this diagnostic approach not only looks into the area of damage and pain, but also evaluates the mechanics and structure of the bone and joints related to the area of the pain. For instance, the symptoms of a scapholunate tear, may be exacerbated by damage to the ligament and tendon structures of the elbow, shoulder and scapula. Abnormality in these regions can also put pressure across the joints of the wrist. In executing The Greenberg Method, Dr. Greenberg often discovers that conditions experienced in one area of the body are often rooted in a different area that hasn’t been treated before. While an isolated joint treatment ignores physiology and the evaluation of movement, The Greenberg Method’s full-body examination produces a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan. In return, the patient experiences a greater reduction in pain and improvement in function, which helps them get back on their feet to resume their daily routines, pain free.

The good news is that there is a regenerative alternative to surgery for treating your injured scapholunate ligament. Dr. Scott Greenberg will perform The Greenberg Method, including a review of your most recent radiographs. He will carefully examine and palpate your hand, wrist and elbow to comprehensively understand why your kinetic systems are out of balance.

If you are an appropriate candidate for The Greenberg Method, Dr. Greenberg will treat your SLI by administering the healing and synergistic cascade of Prolotherapy, Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Stem Cell Treatments.

To treat SLI, Dr. Greenberg uses TGM Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections every three weeks, depending on your progress. PRP treatments are used to promote the patients’ own healing factors and cells to regenerate injured ligament, cartilage and bone systems. A typical treatment course may call for several injections performed every 3 weeks, depending on the patient’s progress. Dr. Greenberg will discuss the objectives of each treatment and explain the therapeutic option that is most appropriate for your case.

The Greenberg Method is an excellent choice for those who are looking for an alternative treatment to surgery. Our team treats the whole person, not just your symptoms. We work to renew you physically and improve your overall sense of wellness, both emotionally and physically.

If you or a loved one is looking for a new strategy to treat chronic aches and pains, fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment or call Dr. Greenberg’s office today at 833-440-4325.

Treatment of scapholunate ligament injury, EFFORT Open Rev. 2017: 2(9): 382-393, J. Anderson