Non-Surgical Hand, Wrist & Elbow Care in Columbus, GA

Healing Without Surgery

At Columbus Hand Institute, we believe surgery shouldn’t be the first step. In many cases, the right starting point is movement, healing and time. That’s why we take a conservative-first approach to hand, wrist and elbow care, focusing on non-surgical treatments that support your body’s natural ability to recover.

Whether you’re managing arthritis, recovering from an injury or dealing with unexplained hand pain, our team listens closely, understands your goals and builds a care plan that helps you heal with as little intervention as possible.

What Conservative-First Care Means at Columbus Hand Institute

Conservative care isn’t “doing less” — it’s doing what’s most effective. Many conditions improve with physical therapy, bracing, and guided recovery. This approach is rooted in Dr. Blake’s dual background as both a fellowship-trained hand surgeon and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT).

At CHI, every evaluation looks at the whole picture: what can be restored, how pain can be reduced, how function can be regained, and how surgery can often be avoided.

Our conservative-first philosophy means:

Conservative care doesn't mean doing less. It’s choosing the most effective path.
Dr. Blake’s dual training ensures a unique perspective on movement and healing.
Whole-body evaluation identifies the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Welcoming second opinions, especially when patients have been told “nothing more can be done.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Conditions

We offer a comprehensive range of non-surgical care, tailored to meet your specific needs. Many plans include several of the options below for the best outcomes.

Physical Therapy & Therapeutic Exercises

Most treatment starts with guided movement, including:

Mobility exercises to reduce stiffness
Strengthening routines to support tendons and muscles
Functional training for tasks like gripping or writing

On-site therapy services are coming soon. In the meantime, we coordinate with trusted local providers and stay involved in your progress.

Bracing & Immobilization

We may recommend:

Wrist, thumb or finger braces to reduce inflammation
Custom support based on your injury
Short-term use that protects without long-term stiffness

Home-Based
Recovery Plans

Our experienced PAs, Heather and Jonathan, will guide you through personalized exercises and instructions for home. This supports ongoing recovery and empowers you to stay involved in your healing.

Wellness & Supplement Support

Healing is more than physical. Dr. Blake may recommend certain supplements to help your body heal and reduce swelling. For patients who prefer to avoid prescription medications, he may also suggest herbal options to manage pain.

Conditions Commonly Treated with Conservative Care

Many conditions improve with conservative care. At CHI, we regularly treat:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Early Stages)

Numbness, tingling or pain in the hand from pressure on a nerve in the wrist.

Tendonitis

Inflammation in a tendon, often from overuse, that causes pain and stiffness.

Ligament Injuries

Stretched or torn connective tissue that can lead to pain and joint instability.

Sprains

Ligament injuries from sudden twists or impacts, causing swelling and discomfort.

Osteoarthritis

Joint wear and tear that leads to pain and stiffness, especially with movement.

Contractures

Tightening of tissue that limits how far you can move a joint or finger.

Referred Hand or Wrist Pain

Pain that starts somewhere else, like the neck, but is felt in the hand.

When Non-Surgical Care Becomes Surgical

If conservative care doesn’t lead to improvement, surgery may be the right next step. And if it is, great news, you’re already in expert hands.

Dr. Blake performs all procedures himself and continues to prioritize your goals. If surgery isn’t urgent and you want to wait, he fully supports that. But if it’s critical for long-term function, he’ll be clear and direct, always with your best interest in mind.

CHI ensures a smooth, supportive transition from conservative to surgical care, with your entire Hand Team staying involved throughout recovery.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Whether you’re exploring your options or looking for a second opinion before committing to surgery, CHI is here to help. We offer trusted, non-invasive treatment plans that reflect your goals and values.