Displaced Bones and Ligament Tears in Sports Injuries

Bone displacement, ligament tear, avulsion fracture?

I'm sorry, doctor, I'm back again...
You already know about the previous incident, which was a traumatic fracture caused by a collision while playing basketball.
Since the bone was too small, conservative treatment was adopted.
However, after three months, it still hurts.
This time, I had an X-ray taken of the previous area, and it turned out that the bone in my little finger was completely displaced.
Even I can clearly see that the angle is abnormal.
The doctor said it was discovered too late, and the bone has already healed, but it can still be used in this condition.
I was advised to wear a pneumatic brace to practice walking, as this is part of rehabilitation; otherwise, I might not be able to walk properly in the future.
The doctor also mentioned that the previous traumatic fracture, along with the newly discovered bone displacement, is accompanied by tendon damage and a tear in the gastrocnemius tendon, which are both more difficult to recover from than the bone itself and have a high chance of leaving sequelae.

I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Will the displaced bone really have no impact at all?
2.
What kind of sequelae can be expected?
3.
How long will it take to fully recover?
I am very grateful.
Thank you!!

Qingfeng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/18

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

The little finger is located in the hand, while the avulsion fracture you mentioned is in the foot.
The question is a bit confusing; please clarify which specific joint or bone fracture you are referring to for a better response.

Reply Date: 2015/12/18

More Info

In your situation, it sounds like you are dealing with a complex sports injury involving both a displaced bone and ligament tears. Understanding the implications of these injuries is crucial for your recovery and future athletic performance.

1. Impact of the Displaced Bone: A displaced bone, especially in the small finger (the fifth digit), can lead to functional limitations. While the doctor mentioned that the bone has healed in its displaced position, it may still affect your grip strength and dexterity. The alignment of bones is essential for optimal function, and a misaligned bone can lead to complications such as arthritis or chronic pain in the long term. It is important to follow your doctor's advice regarding the use of a pneumatic brace, as this will help stabilize the area and promote proper healing.

2. Potential Long-term Consequences: The combination of a displaced bone, tendon damage, and ligament tears can lead to several long-term issues. Common complications include:
- Chronic Pain: Persistent discomfort in the affected area is common, especially if the alignment of the bones is not corrected.

- Reduced Range of Motion: You may experience stiffness or limited movement in your finger, which can affect your ability to perform daily tasks or participate in sports.

- Weakness: Damage to the tendons and ligaments can result in decreased strength in the affected area, making it difficult to perform activities that require grip strength.

- Arthritis: Misalignment and previous injuries can increase the risk of developing arthritis in the joint over time, leading to pain and swelling.

3. Recovery Timeline: The recovery period for such injuries can vary significantly based on the severity of the damage and your adherence to rehabilitation protocols. Generally, for ligament tears and tendon injuries, a recovery period of several months is expected. It may take anywhere from 3 to 6 months, or even longer, for full recovery, depending on the extent of the injuries and your body's healing response. Engaging in physical therapy is crucial during this time, as it will help restore strength, flexibility, and function to the affected area.

In addition to following your doctor's recommendations, consider the following tips for recovery:
- Physical Therapy: Engage in a structured rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around the injured area and improve flexibility.

- Gradual Return to Activity: Avoid rushing back into sports or activities that could exacerbate your injury. Gradually increase your activity level as your strength and range of motion improve.

- Pain Management: Use ice and over-the-counter pain medications as needed to manage discomfort, but consult your doctor for any persistent pain.

- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of pain or discomfort during your rehabilitation exercises. If something feels wrong, consult your healthcare provider.

Lastly, it's understandable to feel anxious about your recovery and the potential for long-term effects. Consider discussing your concerns with a mental health professional or a sports psychologist, as they can provide strategies to help manage anxiety related to your injury and recovery process. Remember, focusing on your rehabilitation and taking it one step at a time can help alleviate some of the stress associated with your injury.

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