Overview

A broken hand refers to a fracture in one or more of the bones of the hand, including the fingers, metacarpals, or small wrist-adjacent bones. Hand fractures are common injuries that can affect daily activities such as gripping, writing, and lifting. The severity of a broken hand can range from minor cracks to complex fractures involving joints. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important to restore hand strength, movement, and function.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a broken hand may vary depending on which bone is affected and how severe the fracture is. Common symptoms include:

  • Pain that increases with movement or pressure

  • Swelling, bruising, or tenderness in the hand or fingers

  • Difficulty gripping objects or making a fist

  • Visible deformity, such as a crooked finger or knuckle

  • Stiffness or limited range of motion

In some cases, numbness or tingling may occur if nerves are involved.

Causes

A broken hand is usually caused by direct trauma or force. Common causes include:

  • Falls onto an outstretched hand

  • Sports injuries, especially in contact sports

  • Punching hard objects or accidental impacts

  • Workplace or household accidents

  • Motor vehicle accidents

Risk factors

Several factors can increase the risk of a broken hand:

  • Participation in high-risk or contact sports

  • Lack of protective equipment during activities

  • Osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken bones

  • Poor hand protection during manual work

  • Previous hand injuries

Complications

Most broken hands heal well with appropriate care, but complications can occur, especially with severe or untreated fractures:

  • Delayed healing or improper bone alignment

  • Reduced grip strength or hand function

  • Joint stiffness or loss of flexibility

  • Nerve or tendon damage

  • Chronic pain or deformity

Prevention

While not all hand fractures can be prevented, certain measures can reduce the risk:

  • Wearing protective gloves during sports or manual work

  • Using proper techniques and safety equipment during activities

  • Maintaining bone strength through balanced nutrition and exercise

  • Avoiding punching hard surfaces or objects

  • Taking precautions to prevent falls and accidents

Prompt medical assessment after a hand injury can help ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of long-term problems.

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