Next Steps

Follow-up

A person with a boxer's fracture frequently is advised to follow-up with a bone specialist (orthopedic surgeon) or a hand specialist to ensure that the broken bone mends properly. The hand specialist may be either an orthopedic surgeon or a plastic surgeon who specializes in hand injuries.

• Follow-up should occur within 1 week of the initial injury if there is not a critical amount of angulation. If angulation of the fracture exceeds acceptable levels, follow-up should occur sooner.
  
  
• If a plaster splint is placed in your doctor's office, or in the emergency department, and you develop increased pain or numbness in your fingers, or if your fingers become cold and blue, then loosen the splint, notify your doctor, and return to the emergency department immediately.