What are Hand Fractures and Dislocations?
A joint is a part of the body that connects two or more bones together. When a bone is dislocated or fractured, it can cause immediate pain and render you unable to use that part of the body. Dislocations occur when the ends of a joint are forced from their normal position and are separated. Fractures occur when there is partial or complete break in your hand or wrist at any spot in the bone.
Symptoms of Hand Fractures and Dislocations
Besides feeling immediate pain, other symptoms of a dislocation or fracture include:
- Bruising
- Deformity
- Inability to use joint or limb normally.
- Numbness
- Redness
- Swelling
- Weakness
Treatment for Hand Fractures and Dislocations
At your appointment, your provider will examine the affected limb and may order an X-ray scan or MRI. Treatment for hand or wrist injury will vary depending on the severity and type of injury.
- If the wrist or hand is dislocated, your provider will move the joint back into place and immobilize it with a cast, splint, or sling to it can heal.
- If the wrist or hand is fractured, the bone will be reset and casted to allow it to heal.
Other treatments for your dislocated or fractured wrist or hand include:
- Pain medication.
- Limiting activities to rest the injured area.
- Physical therapy to strengthen the affected area.
- Surgery may be needed if the dislocation happens repeatedly or if a muscle or tendon is badly torn.