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3 days ago · A metacarpal fracture of the hand is usually a minor fracture. However, it can be debilitating as you can’t use your hand normally. Even though it will be uncomfortable, it’s important to move the fingers early on. This will improve the function of the hand and help your recovery. Pain. It’s normal to have some discomfort in the areas ...
- Overview
- Symptoms and Causes
- Diagnosis and Tests
- Management and Treatment
- Prevention
- Outlook / Prognosis
- Living With
Metacarpal fractures are one of the most common types of broken bones. It might be frustrating not to use your hand while it heals, but don’t rush your recovery. If you put too much stress on your bone before it’s healed, you can increase your chances of re-fracturing it or developing other complications.
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What are the symptoms of a metacarpal fracture?
Symptoms of a metacarpal fracture include: Pain. Swelling. Tenderness. Difficulty moving or using your hand. Bruising or discoloration. A deformity or bump that’s not usually on your body. If you fracture a metacarpal, there’s also a good chance the other tissue in your hand around your bone is damaged, too. This includes your: Ligaments. Tendons. Muscles.
What causes metacarpal fractures?
The most common causes of metacarpal fractures include: Falls. Sports injuries. Other traumas like car accidents. Injuries at work or on job sites. Other health conditions that affect your hands and fingers can make you more likely to experience a metacarpal fracture. Enchondromas — noncancerous tumors that grow inside your bones — can cause fractures.
How are metacarpal fractures diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will diagnose a metacarpal fracture with a physical exam and imaging tests. They’ll probably be able to feel or see a metacarpal fracture in your hand, but you’ll still need imaging tests to confirm which bones are broken and what type of fracture you have.
What tests are done to diagnose metacarpal fractures?
You’ll need at least one of a few imaging tests to take pictures of your fracture, such as: X-rays: An X-ray will confirm any fractures and show how damaged your bones are. Computed tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan will give your provider or surgeon a more three-dimensional picture of your bones and the surrounding tissue than an X-ray. Bone Density Test: A bone density test (sometimes called a DEXA or DXA scan) can help diagnose osteoporosis.
How are metacarpal fractures treated?
How your fracture is treated depends on which type it is, what caused it and how damaged your bones are.
Metacarpal fracture surgery
Some metacarpal fractures require surgery. Depending on which type of fracture you have and how badly your bones are damaged, there are a few techniques your surgeon might use.
What medications are used to treat metacarpal fractures?
Over-the-counter (OTC) NSAIDs (like aspirin or ibuprofen) and acetaminophen can lead to bleeding and other complications after surgery. Your surgeon will talk to you about the medications you can take to reduce pain.
How can I reduce my risk for metacarpal fractures?
Follow these general safety tips to reduce your risk of an injury: Always wear your seatbelt. Wear the right protective equipment for all activities and sports. Make sure your home and workspace are free from clutter that could trip you or others. Always use the proper tools or equipment at home to reach things. Never stand on chairs, tables or countertops. Follow a diet and exercise plan that’ll help you maintain good bone health. Talk to your provider about a bone density test if you’re older than 50 or if you have a family history of osteoporosis. Use a cane or walker if you have difficulty walking or have an increased risk of falls.
What can I expect if I experience a metacarpal fracture?
You should make a full recovery if you break a metacarpal. You’ll need occupational therapy to regain strength and range of motion in your hand.
When should I go to the emergency room?
If you think you have a metacarpal fracture — or any other broken bone — you need to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. Go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following: Intense pain. You can’t move your hand or fingers like you usually can. Your hand is noticeably different-looking. You can see your bone through your skin. New bruising that appears at the same time as any of these other symptoms. Go to the emergency room right away if you’ve experienced trauma.
What questions should I ask my doctor?
What type of fracture do I have? Will I need surgery? How long will it take to recover? When can I resume physical activities or play sports? A note from Cleveland Clinic Breaking a bone in your hand can be frustrating, especially if it affects your ability to write, hold your phone or do any other task you’re used to doing without thinking about it. However, you should expect to make a full recovery from a metacarpal fracture, even if you need surgery. Talk to your provider about your osteoporosis risk, especially if you know you have a family history of it. A bone density screening can help you catch it before it causes you to break a bone. Medically Reviewed Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 01/09/2023. Learn more about our editorial process.
Sep 5, 2024 · Metacarpal Fractures are the most common hand injury and are divided into fractures of the head, neck, or shaft. Diagnosis is made by orthogonal radiographs the hand. Treatment is based on which metacarpal is involved, location of the fracture, and the rotation/angulation of the injury. Epidemiology.
Mar 2, 2023 · A metacarpal fracture can happen in a variety of ways including a fall on an outstretched hand, a crushing injury, or hitting an object with a clenched fist. There is usually immediate pain and swelling in the hand. You may also see that the hand is deformed. It is common to see a bump over the back of the hand where the fracture is located.
A metacarpal head fracture is associated with axial compression of the extended digit which causes severe discomfort. In a metacarpal base fracture, movement of the wrist or longitudinal compression exacerbates the pain. Any metacarpal fracture angulation can produce a pseudo-claw deformity.
The most frequent type of metacarpal fracture is a ‘boxer’s fracture’, which is a little finger (5th metacarpal) neck fracture. This is illustrated in the picture above. If you are not sure of which part of the metacarpal you have broken you will be explained during your first appointments after your emergency visit.
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May 21, 2023 · A fractured (broken) metacarpal is a common injury of the hand. A metacarpal fracture affects one or more of the five metacarpal bones that run from the wrist (carpal) bones to the knuckles. An impact injury, such as a fall or blow to the hand, is usually the cause of a metacarpal fracture. Metacarpal fractures can take more than a month to heal.
