A hand fracture is break in one of the bones of the hand. Hand fractures most commonly occur when people attempt to brace themselves from falling by outstretching their hand. In most cases, a hand fracture will heal without surgical treatment.
Treatment
- Realign fracture with manipulation
- Cast/splint/brace to immobilize the bones
- The healing process should be monitored with a series of x-rays to ensure that the bones have not shifted.
- NSAIDs
Physical therapy to restore range of motion and strength in the hand once the cast or splint is removed.
Goal
Proper realignment of hand bones.
Complications
- If the bones rotate during the healing process, then loss of function could result.
- Ongoing stiffness or aching
- Osteoarthritis
- Nerve or blood vessel damage
Outcomes/recovery
The cast will remain for approximately three to six weeks, depending on the severity and location of the fracture. If the fracture only requires a splint, gentle hand exercises usually begin after 3 weeks.
