Symptoms and Signs of Broken Hand

Doctor's Notes on Broken Hand

A broken hand is a fracture, or break, of any of the bones in the hand. Most cases are caused by traumatic injury, either due to workplace injuries, punching or striking injuries, crush injuries, falls, and sports injuries.

Signs and symptoms of a broken bone in the hand depend on the exact location of the break. Associated symptoms and signs can include

• pain that may be severe,
• redness,
• bruising,
• swelling,
• reduced mobility of the joints of the hand,
• weakness, and
• reduced range of motion of the finger joints.

Other signs and symptoms may include

• protrusion of bone fragments from the injury site,
• misalignment or deformity of the hand, and
• injuries to the overlying skin, including cuts, scrapes, or abrasions.

What Is the Treatment for a Broken Hand?

Treatment depends upon both the type and the severity of the hand fracture, including which of the many hand bones are affected. Nonsurgical treatment can include immobilization using a cast or splint, icing and elevating the area to reduce pain and swelling, and medications to control pain. Any open cuts or injuries should be cleaned and bandaged. In some cases, surgical repair of a hand fracture may be required. This can involve the use of pins or screws to restore normal bone anatomy.