Health

Reasons Why You Should See an Expert for Your Hand Injury

Published

4 years ago

August 6, 2021

Have you ever broken your hand and wondered where to go in such a situation? You might not have known hand surgeons exist. Your hands are critical, as they help accomplish many activities, and any time you are injured, you would want help as soon as possible. Kristopher Downing, MD, a La Jolla hand injuries expert, has what it takes to help your hands regain function after an injury.

Types of hand injuries

Hands are complex body parts with many bones in them to help you hold objects firmly. The hands consist of bones such as the phalangeal, and eight bones that make up the carpal that gives them their unique shapes and functions. In addition, the hands have a series of joints, tendons, and muscles, which help you make flexible movements possible for holding uniquely shaped objects. That is why you would want a way to get back to normal functioning much faster anytime you have a hand injury. Some common injuries that affect the hands include:

Jersey’s finger
Arthritis
Baseball finger
Fractures
Trigger finger
Thumb sprains
Tendonitis
Boutonniere deformity

Many hand injuries stem from common accidents, which might occur when you play baseball or wrongly protecting yourself from a fall using your hands. Stress is also why some people have hand injuries, as repeated movements irritate the muscle joints and inflame them.

How does a doctor diagnose hand injuries?

Diagnosis of hand injuries begins with thorough examinations, which involve extensive scans of the injured area. Upper Extremity Specialists have a unique way of accomplishing the diagnostic session. The doctors there include a talking session where they discuss the injury with you and provide ways to find relief much faster. Other procedures vital in the diagnostic session include feeling your bones. They investigate whether you have any swelling at any point in the hand and check for abnormalities that show signs for the best treatment plans.

Extensive x-rays or MRIs can also come in handy when the physical examinations do not give the desired results. Once the cause of your injury is established, your Upper Extremity Specialists will work with you to create the best yet most comfortable treatment plan available.

What techniques can help treat hand injuries?

Upper Extremity Specialists do not just give you a general treatment to deal with your problem; the center custom creates one that fits your profile. The first line of treatment involves the non-invasive ones, followed by the advanced ones for more profound injuries. The treatments you will likely find incudes:

Compression
Physical therapies
Bracing
Anti-inflammatory drugs delivered through needles

Surgery is an option for those with deeper cuts or extensive issues in their joints. However, for such procedures, Upper Extremity Specialists have the tools and skills to accomplish these surgeries.

Hand issues can make you less productive if they are ignored. That is why you need a partner like Upper Extremity Specialists, who have experience dealing with hand complications. Reach the center via phone call, or book your spot online to begin your journey to faster healing.

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

3 weeks ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.