How long does it take for a hand fracture to heal?
With proper treatment, broken fingers will typically heal within a few weeks and broken hands within one to two months, although it may take several months to make a complete recovery from a severely broken hand.
Can you move your hand if it’s fractured?
Range of Motion. You may have a compromised range of motion if your hand is broken. This may be due to swelling, inflammation, or pain caused by the injury. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms discussed, especially pain in your hand, immediately contact a trusted hand doctor before symptoms worsen.
What is the most common hand fracture?
The most common hand fracture is a fracture of the fifth metacarpal—the bone in the hand that supports the little finger. This is commonly called a “boxer’s fracture” and involves the “neck” of the bone, next to the knuckle joint.
How is a fractured hand treated?
First aid for a broken hand
- Avoid moving your hand. Try your best to immobilize your hand. If a bone has moved out of place, don’t attempt to realign it.
- Apply ice. To reduce pain and swelling, carefully apply an ice pack or cold compress to your injury.
- Stop the bleeding.
What happens if a broken hand goes untreated?
Key Points about Hand Fractures Symptoms of a hand fracture include swelling, bruising, pain, inability to move a finger, or finger deformity. If left untreated or not treated appropriately, a hand fracture can lead to loss of hand mobility.
How do you tell if hand is fractured or sprained?
Symptoms
- Severe pain that might worsen when gripping or squeezing or moving your hand.
- Swelling.
- Tenderness.
- Bruising.
- Obvious deformity, such as a crooked finger.
- Stiffness or inability to move your fingers or thumb.
- Numbness in your hand or fingers.
How do you know if your hand is sprained or fractured?
Pain located directly on top of the bone – where there is no soft tissue. Pain becomes worse when you apply pressure or move the injured limb. Severe swelling, or bruising over the top of the bone, numbness or tingling. A “cracking” (not “popping”) sound at the time of the injury.