Falling After Surgery: Is Numbness Normal for a Fractured Hand?

After the surgery, I accidentally fell?

Hello, doctor.
On September 15th, I fractured the fifth metacarpal bone in my right hand and had it casted with three pins inserted.
However, this morning around 11 AM, I fell, landing on my elbow first, so the affected area did not directly hit the ground.
Since the incident, I have not experienced any discomfort in the affected area, but this afternoon while lying down to rest, my hand felt a bit numb.
Is this normal? I'm worried that the fall might have caused the bone to shift.

Xiao Guo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/26

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics

Based on the information described by the internet user, it appears that the fracture site has not been re-implanted (if it were to displace again, it could lead to deformity and swelling).
The symptoms of numbness in the hand may be due to the impact on the elbow, which could have caused a ulnar nerve injury, as the ulnar nerve runs near the elbow.

Reply Date: 2006/09/26

More Info

After experiencing a fall following surgery for a fractured hand, it's understandable to be concerned about potential complications, especially regarding the stability of the fracture and any associated symptoms like numbness. Based on your description, it seems that you fell with your elbow making contact with the ground first, which likely minimized direct impact on the fractured area of your hand.
The absence of immediate discomfort or pain in the fractured area is a positive sign. Typically, if a fracture were to shift or displace significantly, you would expect to experience symptoms such as increased pain, swelling, or deformity at the site of the fracture. Since you have not experienced these symptoms, it is likely that the fracture has remained stable despite the fall.

The numbness you are experiencing in your hand, particularly after resting, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that the fall may have caused some transient compression or irritation of the nerves in your arm, particularly the ulnar nerve, which runs near the elbow and can be affected by impacts or awkward positions. This could lead to sensations of tingling or numbness in the hand. Another possibility is that the position in which you were resting may have put pressure on the nerves or blood vessels, leading to temporary numbness.

It's important to monitor your symptoms closely. If the numbness persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as weakness, severe pain, or changes in color or temperature of the hand, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination and possibly imaging studies to ensure that there are no underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In terms of the stability of your fracture, it is crucial to follow up with your orthopedic surgeon or healthcare provider. They may recommend an X-ray to assess the healing process and ensure that the fracture has not shifted. Regular follow-ups are essential in the post-operative phase to monitor healing and address any complications early.

In summary, while the numbness you are experiencing may be normal and could be related to nerve compression, it is essential to remain vigilant. If you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Proper care and monitoring are key to ensuring a successful recovery from your fracture.

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