Hand Fractures: Recovery and When to Seek Help

Q: Hand Fractures: Recovery and When to Seek Help

Hello： Please respond as follows： If you have any questions, make sure to return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible. <br>Don't hesitate, come back quickly! Wishing you all the best. <br>Director of Orthopedics, Keelung Hospital, Li Wen-Lin.

Metacarpal fracture

Hello Doctor: About two weeks ago, I fell while playing basketball, and my left palm was pressed under my body.
It was very painful, so I went to the hospital.
The doctor took an X-ray and confirmed that the last bone of my pinky finger was cracked.
He applied a cast to stabilize it.
A few days ago, I had a follow-up appointment, and he said the bone has started to heal and there is no displacement.
He mentioned it should be fine in about two weeks.
However, in the last couple of days, when I put on pants and slightly exert pressure with my left hand, I feel mild pain radiating from my pinky finger.
I'm wondering if the bone has shifted in the last couple of days.
If there is displacement, would it be too late to return for a check-up in a week?

Yutou, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/09/22

Dr. Li Wenlin reply Orthopedics

Hello: Please respond as follows: If you have any questions, make sure to return for a follow-up appointment as soon as possible.
Don't hesitate, come back quickly! Wishing you all the best.
Director of Orthopedics, Keelung Hospital, Li Wen-Lin.

Reply Date: 2008/09/22

More Info

When dealing with hand fractures, particularly those involving the phalanges (the bones of the fingers), it's crucial to understand the healing process and when to seek further medical attention. Based on your description, you sustained a fracture in the distal phalanx of your left hand, which is the last bone in your little finger. The initial treatment involved immobilization with a cast, which is standard practice for such injuries.

Typically, fractures like yours can take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks to heal, depending on various factors, including the severity of the fracture, your age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols. The fact that your doctor has indicated that the fracture is not displaced and is beginning to heal is a positive sign. However, the onset of new pain, especially when performing activities that require the use of your hand, can be concerning.

The pain you are experiencing in your little finger when using your left hand could be attributed to several factors. It may be due to the normal healing process, where the surrounding tissues are still inflamed and sensitive. Alternatively, it could indicate that there is some movement or stress being placed on the fracture site, which could potentially lead to displacement if the fracture was not stable.
If you are feeling pain that is new or worsening, it is advisable to consult your physician sooner rather than later. Waiting a week could potentially lead to complications if there is indeed a shift in the fracture alignment. In general, if you experience increased pain, swelling, or any changes in the appearance of your hand, it is prudent to seek medical advice.
In terms of rehabilitation, once the initial healing phase is complete, physical therapy may be recommended to restore strength, flexibility, and function to your hand. This can involve gentle range-of-motion exercises, followed by strengthening exercises as tolerated. It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding when to start rehabilitation exercises, as starting too early can lead to setbacks in the healing process.

In summary, while it is encouraging that your fracture is healing, the new pain you are experiencing warrants further evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential complications from fractures. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide you with the best advice tailored to your specific situation and ensure that your recovery proceeds as smoothly as possible.

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