At Shoreline Orthopaedics, our orthopaedic surgeons use a truly collaborative approach so our patients have the benefit of multiple expert opinions, without having to go elsewhere to obtain them.
Shoreline Orthopaedics provides more comprehensive services, state-of-the-art options, technologies and techniques than anyone else in the area.
The following information is provided to help you understand what you can expect from us regarding policies and procedures, and also what is expected of you before and after treatment or procedures.
The following information is provided to help you gain a better understanding of anatomy, terminology, certain orthopaedic procedures, and more. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your physician.
A fracture of the hand can occur in either the small bones of the fingers (phalanges) or in the long bones (metacarpals).
A hand fracture can be the result of a twisting injury, a fall, a crush injury, or direct contact in sports.
Symptoms of a broken bone in the hand include: pain; swelling, tenderness; an appearance of deformity; inability to move a finger; shortened finger; a finger crossing over its neighbor when you make a fist; or a depressed knuckle, which is often seen in a "boxer's fracture."
If you believe your hand may be fractured, have it examined right away. Your physician will assess the injury by checking the position of the fingers and condition of the skin, performing range-of-motion tests, and evaluating feeling in the fingers to ensure there is no damage to nerves. An X-ray can be used to identify the location and extent of the fracture.
Usually, the fracture can be realigned without surgery, using manipulation. A cast, splint or fracture-brace is then applied to immobilize the bones and hold them in place. A cast typically begins at the fingertips and extends past the wrist, almost to the elbow and will be worn for approximately three to six weeks. Gentle hand exercises may be recommended after three weeks. Additional X-rays may be needed to ensure that the fractured bones remain in position and are healing properly.
For some fractures, particularly those that break through the skin (open or compound fracture) or result from a crushing accident, surgery is sometimes required to stabilize and align the bones. Your orthopaedic surgeon can implant wires, screws, or plates in the broken bone to hold the pieces of the fractured bone firmly in place. During the healing process, your physician may want to examine your hand periodically to ensure that the joint does not tighten or contract. Once the bone has healed, the implants may be removed, or left in place, depending on your individual situation.
You may experience some joint stiffness due to the long immobilization period. Your physician may recommend physical therapy to help you restore strength and range of motion in your hand.