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How do I know if I broke my metacarpal bone?
Symptoms of a metacarpal fracture usually include one or more of the following:
- Hand pain and tenderness to touch (over the back of the hand or palm)
- Hand swelling.
- Hand bruising.
- Hand pain / grinding when making a fist.
- Hand deformity (fingers may not line up normally when making a fist)
Can a broken metacarpal heal without a cast?
Technically speaking, the answer to the question “can broken bones heal without a cast?” is yes. Assuming conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However, (and very importantly) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone left to heal without a cast may heal improperly.
Do you need a cast for a metacarpal fracture?
Treatment. Treatment of a metacarpal fracture can usually be accomplished with the use of a cast. A cast is usually worn for three to six weeks, followed by gentle motion exercises. 2 Occasionally, if stiffness becomes a problem after cast treatment, a hand therapist will be recommended to work with you.
What happens when you break your metacarpal?
Like most other fractures, a metacarpal fracture typically produces pain and swelling in the affected hand. Bruising also usually occurs, although it may not be visible immediately and may take several days to develop.
How bad is a metacarpal fracture?
Metacarpal fractures, which are a type of hand fracture, are common and account for 10% of all fractures. If you have this type of injury, it’s important to seek medical attention to help preserve the full range of strength and mobility in your hand. Fortunately, recovery is typically very good for this type of injury.
How long does it take for a 4th metacarpal fracture to heal?
In most cases, the metacarpal fracture heals well and does so over the course of 6 to 8 weeks. Over that time the cast can be removed after a period of time and changed to a removable splint. X-rays are checked every few weeks to be sure the fracture is healing properly and the bone ends maintain their alignment.
How long does it take for a 5th metacarpal fracture to heal?
Metacarpal fractures usually take about six to eight weeks to heal. You’ll probably have to wear a splint as part of your treatment. It covers part of your fingers and both sides of your hand and wrist, and you’ll most likely wear it for around three weeks. You may also undergo physical therapy.
Can you still move your hand if it’s broken?
If you think you might have a broken hand, see a doctor immediately, especially if you have numbness, swelling or trouble moving your fingers. A delay in diagnosis and treatment can lead to poor healing, decreased range of motion and decreased grip strength.
Is it easy to break your metacarpal?
Metacarpal fractures are surprisingly common, and are exactly what they sound like: a break in one of the hand bones. The palm of the hand consists primarily of five long bones known as the metacarpals.
Can a 5th metacarpal fracture heal on its own?
When does a metacarpal fracture or broken hand occur?
Metacarpal Fracture or Broken Hand. Reviewed By: Pramod Kerkar, MD, FFARCSI. The hand consists of five bones called metacarpal bones for all the five fingers. The knuckles at the back of the hand are formed by the end of the metacarpal bones, which also assist or support the hand. Metacarpal fracture occurs when one of the long bones get injured.
Can a broken metacarpal be a boxer’s fracture?
Any of the metacarpal bones in the hand can fracture. Another commin broken hand injury is a Boxer’s fracture to the outside of the hand. A Boxer’s fracture is a break to either the 4th or the 5th Metacarpals.
What to do with a broken metacarpal bone?
In addition, you may need physical therapy to help restore the strength and range of motion that can lessen after your finger was immobilized. If you may have broken a bone in your hand, make an appointment for an evaluation today with Mirza Orthopedics.
How many bones are in the metacarpal bone?
If you have a broken hand, you likely have sustained a metacarpal fracture—an injury to the bone at the level of the palm of your hand. You have five metacarpal bones, one for each of your fingers.