OCSM: Hand Fractures Q&A

Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine Blog OCSM: Hand Fractures Q&A
Hand Fractures: OCSM Hand Specialist in Metairie, LA 70001

Hand Fractures Q&A

What are hand fractures?

A hand fracture occurs when you break one (or several) of the 27 bones in your fingers, thumbs, or wrists. Anyone can experience a hand fracture, but they’re most common in active individuals and people who use hand tools for work. 

If you hurt your hand and suspect a fracture, contact the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine immediately. Early intervention and treatment can ensure proper alignment and speed up your body's healing process. 

What are the symptoms of hand fractures?

The symptoms of hand fractures include:

You might also experience tingling or numbness in your hand or fingers, depending on the severity of the fracture.

When should I see a specialist about a hand fracture?

Make an appointment with the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine if you injure your hand and develop numbness, tingling, or swelling in your wrist or fingers. That’s especially true if your symptoms don’t improve with at-home treatment, like ice, rest, or over-the-counter pain medication.

How are hand fractures diagnosed?

To diagnose hand fractures, the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. 

They look at your hand, fingers, and wrist for bruising, swelling, or redness and press on your skin to identify sensitive areas. They also order X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI to get a closer look at your bones and joints.

How are hand fractures treated?

Treatment of hand fractures depends on various factors, including your age, how many bones are broken, and the severity of your symptoms. If your bones are still in alignment, the team might prescribe immobilization with a cast or a splint. 

If you have multiple fractures and your bones aren’t aligned, surgery might be necessary. During fracture repair surgery, the team uses pins, plates, or screws to hold your bones together. Over time, your bones fuse, relieving pain and restoring your range of motion.

After your hand starts healing, you enroll in physical therapy. Physical therapy combines stretches and strengthening exercises to reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and improve your range of motion. 

To receive treatment for hand fractures, call the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine (504-217-5236) or book online today at NOLASPORTSMEDICINCE.com.

(OCSM is convieniently located at 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001)

Author
Nick Pappas III, M.D. Nick Pappas III, M.D. Nicholas Pappas III, MD is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in hand surgery who specializes in various hand and upper extremity conditions. He is the newest member of the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine team and founder of NOLA Hand Surgery (nolahandsurgery.com) Dr. Pappas currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at both Tulane University and Louisiana State University. He is also a member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and serves as a consultant reviewer for the prestigious Journal of Hand Surgery, American. He has an active interest in clinical research with over 30 peer-reviewed publications and multiple textbook chapters to his credit.

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