Hand bone fractures are a common injury that can happen to anyone, whether from a fall, sports injury, or accident. Proper treatment ensures the hand heals well and regains full function.
This blog will guide you through understanding hand bone fractures and the available treatments, helping you make informed decisions about your care.
What Is a Hand Bone Fracture
A hand bone fracture happens when one or more bones in the hand break. The hand contains 27 bones, including metacarpals (bones in the palm) and phalanges (finger bones). A fracture can occur in any of these bones, causing pain, limited movement, and swelling.
Types of Hand Bone Fractures
Different types of fractures occur depending on the force and impact. These include:
- Simple Fractures: The bone breaks cleanly but does not pierce the skin.
- Comminuted Fractures: The bone shatters into multiple pieces.
- Open (Compound) Fractures: The bone pierces the skin, increasing the risk of infection.
- Displaced Fractures: Bone fragments move out of alignment.
Identifying the type of fracture can help healthcare providers recommend the best hand bone fracture treatment.
Symptoms of a Hand Bone Fracture
Symptoms of a hand bone fracture include:
- Severe pain, especially when moving the hand.
- Swelling around the injury site.
- Bruising or discoloration of the skin.
- Difficulty gripping or moving fingers.
- A visible deformity, such as a bent finger.
If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to start appropriate treatment.
Causes of Hand Bone Fractures
Hand fractures often occur due to:
- Falls, where hands are used to break the impact.
- Sports injuries, especially in contact sports or falls during activities like skiing.
- Workplace accidents involving machinery or tools.
- Motor vehicle accidents.
Children, athletes, and individuals with weaker bones (such as those with osteoporosis) are more prone to these injuries.
Diagnosing Hand Bone Fractures
To diagnose a hand bone fracture, your doctor may begin with a physical examination of the hand. They will check for swelling, tenderness, and signs of deformity. X-rays are the most common imaging test used to confirm the location and severity of the fracture.
If soft tissue damage or complications are suspected, a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be recommended.
Hand Bone Fracture Treatment Options
Early and effective hand bone fracture treatment helps prevent complications and restores full mobility. Treatment options include both nonsurgical and surgical methods, depending on the injury’s severity.
Nonsurgical Treatments
Nonsurgical treatments are often effective for simple or stable fractures:
- Casting or Splinting: The broken bone is immobilized with a cast or splint to help it heal. This process usually lasts four to six weeks.
- Buddy Taping: For small fractures in finger bones, the injured finger is taped to a neighboring finger for support.
- Physical Therapy: After the cast or splint is removed, therapy helps improve strength and mobility in the hand.
Surgical Treatments
Some fractures require surgery if they are severe or if nonsurgical methods are not enough. Surgical options include:
- Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Surgeons realign the bone fragments and secure them in place with screws, plates, or wires.
- External Fixation: Pins are inserted into the bone and held in place by an external frame outside the hand.
- Bone Grafting: For fractures where bone is missing or severely damaged, a bone graft may be used to repair the injury.
Your doctor will discuss the best surgical approach based on the fracture location and severity.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from a hand bone fracture varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Generally, complete healing may take six to eight weeks, though some fractures could take longer.
During recovery, follow these tips:
- Keep your hand elevated to reduce swelling.
- Follow your hand doctor’s advice about physical therapy or exercises.
- Avoid heavy lifting or stressful activities involving the injured hand until cleared by your healthcare provider.
Complications like stiffness, chronic pain, or misalignment can occur if fractures are not treated properly.
Key Prevention Tips
While accidents cannot always be avoided, taking precautions can reduce your risk of hand injuries:
- Use proper protective gear during sports or high-risk activities.
- Practice safe techniques when using machinery or tools.
- Stay physically active to maintain bone strength and density.
- Consult your doctor about calcium and vitamin D supplements if you have lower bone density.
Hand Bone Fracture Treatment in Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia
A hand bone fracture can be a painful setback, but with the right care and treatment, most people recover fully and regain mobility. Whether you are dealing with a simple fracture or a more complex case, early diagnosis and expert care are critical.
At Watauga Orthopaedics, our experienced team is dedicated to guiding patients through every step of the recovery process. We specialize in providing personalized care, from diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, ensuring the best possible outcome for your hand bone fracture treatment. We also offer same-day, walk-in urgent care for acute injuries like fractures.
To learn more about our orthopedic services or to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (423) 282-9011 or use our convenient appointment scheduling platform.
We look forward to serving you!
