Persistent Hand Pain After Basketball Injury: What to Do? - Orthopedics

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Persistent hand pain after a basketball injury can be a frustrating experience, especially when it interferes with your ability to play the sport you love. Based on your description, it seems you sustained an injury during a fall, which could involve various structures in your hand, including bones, ligaments, and soft tissues. Here’s a comprehensive approach to understanding and managing your condition.


Understanding Your Injury
When you fell and landed on your hands, you could have experienced a range of injuries, from minor sprains and strains to more serious conditions like fractures or ligament tears. The fact that you still experience pain after a week suggests that the injury may not be healing as expected. Common injuries from such falls include:
1. Wrist Sprains: Overstretching or tearing of ligaments in the wrist can lead to pain and swelling.

2. Fractures: A fall can easily result in a fracture of the wrist bones, particularly the scaphoid or distal radius.

3. Tendon Injuries: Tendons can be strained or torn during a fall, leading to pain during movement.

4. Soft Tissue Contusions: Bruising of the soft tissues can cause lingering pain and discomfort.


Recommended Steps
1. Revisit Your Doctor: Since your pain persists, it’s crucial to return to your healthcare provider for a follow-up. They may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess for fractures or soft tissue injuries that may not have been evident during your initial visit.

2. Rest and Ice: Continuing to play basketball while in pain can exacerbate your injury. Resting your hand and applying ice can help reduce swelling and pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes of ice application several times a day.

3. Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling. Elevating your hand above heart level can also assist in reducing swelling.

4. Physical Therapy: If your doctor recommends it, physical therapy can be beneficial. A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the muscles around your hand and wrist, improve flexibility, and promote healing.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult your doctor before starting any medication.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once your pain subsides and you regain strength and range of motion, gradually return to basketball. Start with light activities and progressively increase intensity as tolerated.


When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe swelling or deformity in the hand or wrist.

- Inability to move your fingers or wrist.

- Persistent pain that does not improve with rest and home care.

- Signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or fever.


Conclusion
Persistent hand pain after a basketball injury warrants careful evaluation and management. It’s essential to listen to your body and not rush back into playing until you are fully healed. By following the recommended steps and working closely with your healthcare provider, you can effectively manage your injury and return to the court stronger than before. Remember, proper recovery is crucial not only for your performance but also for your long-term health and well-being.