As any certified hand therapist will tell you, hand fractures vary in severity. They can be a small crack in one of the 27 bones in your hand, or they can be a complete break.

In some extreme cases—such as automobile accidents or crashes—hand bones can be crushed and require extensive repair.

Here’s a closer look at hand fractures:

Symptoms of Hand Fractures

A hand fracture may show up as:

  • Extreme pain
  • Difficulty in using your hand
  • Swelling
  • Visual deformity of the fingers
  • Stiffness
  • Bruises
  • Numbness or coldness in any part of the hand

First Aid for Hand Fractures

First aid procedures for hand fractures depend on the nature of the fracture and the associated injury. Here are a few tips:

Stopping the Bleeding

If the injury has created a wound, the first priority should be to control any bleeding and avoid blood loss.

To do this, gentle but firm pressure should be applied to the area until the bleeding has ceased.

Swelling and Bruising

If there’s no external bleeding, then you should check for swelling. A fracture typically causes inflammation, bruising, and tenderness in the hand.

Any rings, bracelets, or other jewelry should be removed right away. Cool the inflamed area with an ice pack, but don’t bring it into direct contact with the skin.

Immobilization

After the bleeding has stopped and the swelling has reduced, the hand should be immobilized. If the hand has become bent due to the fracture, it shouldn’t be straightened.

For first aid purposes, a makeshift splint can be tied to the lower part of the forearm, after which the arm should be put in a sling.

Hand Fractures Treatment

You shouldn’t try to treat a hand fracture beyond the basic first aid steps mentioned here. Once first aid has been administered, a health care provider should be consulted immediately.

Treatment for hand fractures includes the following:

  • Taking x-rays to establish the severity of the fracture
  • The application of a custom hand splintor a cast
  • Surgical repairs are needed for major fractures or in cases where the fractured bone starts protruding through the skin

Occupational therapy in NJ

At Able Hands Rehabilitation, our team of certified hand therapists in NJ has years of experience in wrist fracture treatment, finger fracture treatment, trigger finger therapy, trigger thumb therapy, and physical therapy for hand injury.

We also offer custom hand splinting, custom static splints, and occupational hand therapy services.

Book an appointment with our CHTs in NJ at our Edison, Freehold, and Old Bridge clinics by getting in touch with us today.