Hand Injury
Any of the bones in your fingers or hand can break during a fall, direct blow or sporting injury. Initially your hand may be swollen, painful or bruised and there can sometimes be a change in shape or deformity. An X-ray will be needed to confirm the diagnosis, you will be given painkillers and a plaster cast or splint may be applied initially. The treatment of hand fractures aims to promote healing of the injury and restoration of function to the affected hand.
“It’s only a finger” – Do I need my hand fracture treating?
The specific course of treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the individual patient’s overall health and wellbeing. The primary goals of treatment are to realign and stabilise the broken bones, manage pain and swelling, and facilitate the recovery of normal hand function. Hands are extremely important, and it is often only after an injury that people realise how much they are used in all aspects of daily living. For this reason, it is imperative to get the correct treatment from the outset.
Will I need an operation for my finger fracture?
For less severe fractures, especially those involving un-displaced (the bone remains in normal alignment) and stable fractures (those unlikely to displace further), a conservative approach may be adopted. This may include temporary immobilisation of the hand using a splint or cast to prevent movement and maintain alignment. Elevation, rest and appropriate analgesia (pain killers) are required in the early stages. Hand Therapy (specialist physiotherapy) is commonly used to prevent stiffness and maintain range of motion during the healing process.
In cases of more complex or displaced fractures, surgical intervention may be necessary. Various techniques are used including the use of plates and screws or wires which stabilise the fracture once the fracture has been reduced (put back into position), allowing maintenance of position.
What happens after a hand or finger fracture? Will I need physiotherapy?
Following surgery, a short period of immobilisation in a bulky bandage or plaster may be required. Hand therapy is typically required to optimise healing and restore hand function. Hand therapy plays a key role in restoring strength, flexibility, and dexterity after injury. Therapists may employ exercises, splinting, and other modalities to enhance the healing process and promote optimal recovery.
How long does it take to recover after a hand fracture?
The length of recovery can be variable depending on the nature of the injury. For simple fractures, there is likely to be a period of 2 weeks of some swelling and discomfort followed by gradual return to function over the next 4 weeks. Some fractures take longer to recover and the movement can be restricted for a few months.
Most of the time load bearing and contact sports need to be avoided for 6-12 weeks following injury but this is very injury and demand dependant – your surgeon will be able to advise you.
Will I need follow up appointments for my hand fracture?
Regular follow-up appointments with the team, especially the Hand Therapists, are essential to monitor the progress of healing and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. Patient compliance with prescribed therapies and exercises is crucial for achieving the best possible outcome.
