Hand Fracture Specialist in Lexington, KY

What Are the Symptoms of Wrist, Hand, and Finger Fractures?

The symptoms of a wrist, hand, or finger fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the specific bones involved. One of the most common signs of a fracture is immediate pain following the injury, which can be sharp and intense. Swelling often accompanies the pain, and the affected area may appear bruised or discolored.

In many cases, individuals with a fracture will experience difficulty moving the affected area. For example, a broken wrist may make bending or rotating the hand difficult, while a finger fracture may cause difficulty gripping or holding objects. You may also notice tenderness to the touch, especially over the fractured bone, and in some cases, there may be a visible deformity or misalignment in the affected area.

Numbness or tingling can sometimes occur if the fracture presses on nearby nerves. A fracture can lead to long-term complications, such as reduced mobility, chronic pain, or improper bone healing if left untreated.

What Causes Wrist, Hand, and Finger Fractures?

Fractures in the wrist, hand, and fingers are commonly caused by falls, sports injuries, car accidents, and repetitive stress. Medical conditions like osteoporosis can also increase the risk of fractures.

How Are Wrist, Hand, and Finger Fractures Treated?

The treatment of wrist, hand, and finger fractures depends on the severity and location of the break. In many cases, nonsurgical treatments are effective. Your doctor may recommend immobilizing the affected area with a cast or splint to allow the bones to heal properly. Resting the hand and avoiding activities that could worsen the injury is critical during healing.

In addition to immobilization, over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be recommended to manage discomfort during recovery. Physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises may also be necessary to restore strength and mobility after the fracture has healed.

For more severe fractures, or if the bone is displaced, surgery may be required. During surgery, metal pins, screws, or plates may be used to stabilize the bones and ensure proper alignment during healing. This is especially important in complex fractures or bone fragments that are not aligned correctly.

Once the fracture has healed, a rehabilitation program may be necessary to restore full function. This may include exercises to improve the affected area's range of motion, strength, and flexibility.

Expert Wrist, Hand, and Finger Fracture Care at Bluegrass Orthopaedics

At Bluegrass Orthopaedics, we provide expert care for wrist, hand, and finger fractures. Our team of experienced orthopedic specialists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs. Whether your fracture requires nonsurgical management or advanced surgical intervention, we are committed to helping you heal and regain full function.

If you suspect that you have a wrist, hand, or finger fracture, don't wait to seek medical attention. Contact Bluegrass Orthopaedics today to schedule an appointment and get your specialized care. We are here to help you recover and return to normal activities quickly.