Hand Fractures

Hand Fractures

Causes, Symptoms, Types, Treatment Options, and Rehabilitation

Causes and symptoms

Hand fractures are common injuries that can occur due to various causes, including:

Direct trauma from falls, sports injuries, or accidents.
Crushing injuries from heavy objects or machinery.
Twisting injuries during sports or physical activities.

Symptoms of hand fractures may include:

Pain: Intense pain at the site of the fracture, worsened by movement or pressure.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the injured area due to soft tissue damage.
Deformity: Visible misalignment or deformity of the affected finger or hand.
Limited range of motion: Difficulty moving the finger or hand due to pain and instability caused by the fracture.

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Types of hand fractures

Hand fractures can vary in location and severity

Metacarpal fractures: Breaks in the bones of the palm; often involve the ring and little finger.
Phalangeal fractures: Breaks in the small bones of the fingers or thumb.
Intra-articular fractures: Breaks that extend into the joint surface.
Comminuted fractures: Fractures where the bone is broken into multiple pieces.
Open fractures: Where the broken bone pierces the skin, increasing infection risk.

Timely and appropriate treatment helps ensure proper healing and prevents permanent loss of hand mobility or strength.

Cause of hand fractures

Hand fractures can vary in location and severity

Hand fractures can result from:

Sports injuries (especially contact sports)
Falls onto an outstretched hand
Crush injuries at work or home
Direct impact (such as punching an object)
Motor vehicle accidents

These injuries may also be associated with ligament damage, dislocations, or tendon injuries.

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Treatment options

The treatment approach for hand fractures depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture:

Non-surgical treatment: Many hand fractures can be treated without surgery, particularly if the bone fragments are well aligned. Non-operative treatment may involve:

Splinting or casting to immobilise the fracture
Buddy taping for minor finger fractures
Pain management with anti-inflammatory medication
Close monitoring through follow-up X-rays

Dr Brumby-Rendell will recommend the most appropriate option based on the fracture type and your personal needs.

Surgical treatment: Surgery may be required for unstable, displaced, or complex fractures, especially when alignment cannot be maintained non-operatively. Dr Brumby-Rendell performs minimally invasive procedures to stabilise the fracture and promote healing, which may include:.

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) using screws, plates, or wires
K-wire fixation for small or unstable finger fractures
Fracture-specific implants for optimal anatomical restoration

Surgical intervention aims to preserve finger motion, hand strength, and functional use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common complications in hand fractures and how can they be prevented?

Even with proper treatment, hand fractures can lead to issues such as stiffness, malunion (bones healing out of alignment), nonunion (bones not healing together), arthritis (especially if the joint surface is involved), and possible nerve or tendon damage.

Preventive measures include early and accurate diagnosis, proper alignment during treatment, careful immobilization, early initiation of movement when safe, and consistent participation in hand therapy.

How long does it typically take to regain strength and full function after a hand fracture?

When is surgery necessary for a hand fracture versus non-surgical care?

Surgery tends to be needed when:

The fracture is displaced (bones are not aligned properly), angular deformity is significant, or rotation of fingers is altered.
The fracture is “open” (bone breaks through the skin) or involves joint surfaces.
The fracture is unstable or cannot be maintained in a good position with casting/splinting.

If non-surgical treatment is chosen, splinting, casting, or using a removable brace are common depending on stability, with regular imaging to check that alignment remains acceptable.

What can patients expect in terms of pain, swelling, and daily limitations during healing?

What role does early motion / therapy play in the recovery process?

How do patient-factors affect healing and outcome of hand fractures?

Several personal factors influence healing speed and final result:

Age: Younger patients tend to heal faster; older patients may have slower bone healing and greater risk of stiffness.
Health comorbidities: Conditions like diabetes, poor circulation, smoking, or nutritional deficiencies can impair healing.
Fracture severity & type: Fractures involving joints, with displacement, or with soft tissue damage (nerves, tendons, skin) usually have more complex recovery.
Adherence to treatment / therapy: Following instructions for immobilization, attending rehab, avoiding reinjury, and gradual progression are crucial.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery time depends on the severity and type of fracture. Most patients can expect:

Immobilisation for 3–6 weeks (depending on treatment)
Early hand therapy to prevent stiffness and restore motion
Return to light duties within a few weeks
Full recovery in 2–3 months, though complex cases may take longer

Dr Brumby-Rendell works with Adelaide-based hand therapists to guide you through a structured rehabilitation program.

Hand Fractures with Dr Oscar Brumby-Rendell

Dr Brumby-Rendell is a trusted orthopaedic hand and wrist specialist with extensive training in treating complex hand injuries. He combines precise surgical technique with patient-focused care to ensure optimal outcomes.

Patients benefit from: