Broken Hand

Also Known As: Broken Hand, Metacarpal Fracture, Finger Fracture, Hand Bone Fracture

The hand contains 27 bones that work together to provide stability, grip strength, fine motor control, and mobility. These bones include the metacarpals within the hand itself and the phalanges that form the fingers and thumb.

When one of these bones breaks, everyday tasks such as writing, typing, lifting, gripping, or buttoning clothing may become difficult and painful. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized treatment plans designed to relieve pain, promote proper healing, and restore hand function.

What Is a Hand Fracture?

A hand fracture is a crack or break in one of the bones of the hand or fingers.

Fractures may affect:

The metacarpal bones of the hand
The finger bones (phalanges)
The thumb
Multiple bones simultaneously

The severity of a fracture can range from a small crack that remains stable to a complex injury involving displaced bones, joint surfaces, tendons, or ligaments.

What Types of Hand Fractures Are There?

Several types of fractures can occur within the hand.

Metacarpal Fractures

Metacarpal fractures involve the long bones of the hand located between the wrist and fingers. These are among the most common hand fractures.

Finger Fractures

Finger fractures affect one or more of the phalanges and can interfere with normal finger movement and alignment.

Thumb Fractures

Thumb fractures can significantly affect grip strength and hand function because of the thumb’s important role in daily activities.

Boxer’s Fracture

A boxer’s fracture is a common injury involving the fifth metacarpal near the knuckle of the small finger. It often occurs after punching an object.

Intra-Articular Fractures

These fractures extend into a joint and may require more advanced treatment to restore proper alignment and joint function.

What Causes a Hand Fracture?

Hand fractures commonly result from trauma or direct impact.

Common causes include:

Falls onto an outstretched hand
Sports-related injuries
Direct blows to the hand
Motor vehicle accidents
Workplace injuries
Crushing injuries
Punching objects
Recreational accidents

Athletes and individuals who perform manual labor may be at greater risk of hand injuries.

What Are the Symptoms of a Hand Fracture?

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture.

Common signs and symptoms include:

Hand pain
Finger pain
Swelling
Bruising
Tenderness
Difficulty gripping objects
Reduced range of motion
Visible deformity
Finger misalignment
Weakness
Pain with movement

Some fractures may make simple hand movements difficult or impossible.

How Is a Hand Fracture Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a hand fracture begins with a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

Review of symptoms and injury history
Physical examination
Assessment of alignment
Evaluation of finger motion
Strength testing
Neurovascular examination
X-rays
CT scans for complex fractures
Advanced imaging when necessary

Diagnostic imaging helps determine the location, stability, and severity of the fracture while guiding treatment recommendations.

How Is a Hand Fracture Treated?

Treatment depends on the location, severity, and alignment of the fracture.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for a Hand Fracture?

Many hand fractures heal successfully without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

Splinting
Casting
Protective bracing
Activity modification
Ice and elevation
Pain management
Hand therapy
Range-of-motion exercises during recovery

The goal of treatment is to allow the bone to heal properly while preserving hand function and mobility.

When Is Surgery Recommended for a Hand Fracture?

Surgery may be recommended when:

The fracture is displaced
Multiple fractures are present
The joint surface is involved
The fracture is unstable
Alignment cannot be maintained with a cast or splint
Tendon or ligament injuries are present

Surgical options may include:

Pins
Screws
Plates
Fracture fixation procedures
Joint reconstruction techniques

The appropriate treatment depends on the specific fracture pattern and the patient’s functional needs.

What Does Hand Fracture Recovery Look Like?

Recovery depends on the location and severity of the fracture and whether surgery is required.

Many fractures heal successfully within several weeks, although restoring full motion and strength may take longer.

Recovery often includes:

Immobilization with a splint or cast
Hand therapy
Range-of-motion exercises
Strengthening exercises
Swelling management
Gradual return to daily activities

Following your treatment plan closely can help optimize healing and improve long-term hand function.

What Complications Can Occur if a Hand Fracture Is Left Untreated?

Without proper treatment, hand fractures may heal incorrectly and result in lasting problems.

Potential complications include:

Chronic hand pain
Stiffness
Reduced grip strength
Finger deformity
Loss of motion
Arthritis
Improper bone healing
Difficulty performing daily tasks
Reduced hand function

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent these complications and support long-term recovery.

Get Expert Hand Fracture Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

A hand fracture can significantly affect your ability to work, exercise, and perform everyday tasks. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for hand fractures, including advanced diagnostics, fracture management, hand therapy recommendations, and surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves splinting, casting, rehabilitation, fracture fixation, or surgery, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a hand fracture or have recently injured your hand, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward recovery.