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A Function-First Philosophy

At Columbus Hand Institute (CHI), care starts with your goals, not just your diagnosis. Our philosophy is rooted in prevention, healing, and movement, shaped by Dr. Blake’s rare background as both a fellowship-trained hand surgeon and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT). That combination drives how we care for every patient.

Most people begin with conservative care such as bracing, physical therapy, or home-based recovery plans. These options often relieve pain and restore function without surgery. If surgery becomes necessary, you’re already in expert hands.

Care That Starts With Listening

Relief starts with listening. Dr. Blake and the CHI Hand Team — PAs Heather and Jonathan — spend time with each patient to understand what’s really going on. In many cases, the key to diagnosis comes from “the last thing the patient says.”

We prioritize creating a calm, unintimidating environment so you feel heard, not rushed. Every care plan is personalized and focused on helping you regain movement, reduce pain, and get back to doing what you love.

Conditions We Treat

CHI specializes in a wide range of hand and wrist conditions. Whether your pain is new or you’ve been dealing with it for a while, we’re here to help restore your function and comfort.

Nerve & Compression Issues

When nerves are compressed or injured, you may feel tingling, numbness or weakness.

  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pressure on the nerve in your wrist causes numbness and pain in the hand.
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Also called “funny bone nerve problems,” it is caused by a pinched nerve near the elbow.
  • Nerve Injuries or Trauma: Damage that affects how your hand moves or feels.

Tendon & Ligament Problems

Tendons connect muscles to bones; ligaments support your joints. Injuries can cause pain and limit movement.

  • Trigger Finger: A finger that locks or clicks when moving.
  • Tendonitis: Inflammation from overuse, especially in the wrist, hand or elbow.
  • Ligament Sprains or Tears: Often caused by sudden twists or overextension.

Arthritis & Wear-and-Tear Conditions

Arthritis causes joint pain and stiffness that makes everyday tasks harder.

  • Thumb Arthritis: One of the most common types in the hand.
  • Osteoarthritis of the Hand or Wrist: Joint wear and tear that affects strength and mobility.

Bone & Joint Injuries

Fractures and instability can limit movement and cause lasting pain.

Soft Tissue & Masses

Not all pain comes from bones. Soft tissue issues matter too.

  • Ganglion Cysts: Fluid-filled lumps, usually on the wrist.
  • Neuromas: Scarred nerve tissue that causes burning or shooting pain.

Other Functional Issues

We also treat problems that affect how your hand works, even when the source isn’t obvious.

  • Contractures: Tight tissue or skin that restricts movement.
  • Referred Pain: Pain in the hand that actually originates from elsewhere, such as the neck.

Not Sure What’s Causing Your Pain?

You’re not alone. Many people come to CHI after being misdiagnosed or told nothing more can be done.

We take a thoughtful, whole-body approach to understanding your pain. Our team looks beyond the obvious, using tools like our on-site extremity MRI and soon-to-be-added therapy services to get answers quickly.

Whether your pain starts in your hand or somewhere else, like your neck, we’re here to find the real cause and build a plan that works for you.

Find Relief and Restore Function

If you’ve been living with pain, limited motion or an ongoing condition, CHI is here to help.

Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or exploring your options for the first time, our collaborative, expert-led care team is ready to guide you toward the relief you’ve been looking for.

Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward better movement, less pain and a care plan built around you.