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Fractures of the Hand

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Johanna R. Krebiehl

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Meet Our Specialist

Dr. Krebiehl is a native to Michigan. She graduated with honors from Wayne State University in 2006. She continued on to medical school at…

What is a Fracture of the Hand?

A hand fracture is a break or crack in one of the bones of the hand. The most common causes of hand fractures include a direct blow or a crushing injury. You may have an increased risk of experiencing a fracture of the hand if you play certain sports such as football, soccer, or hockey, or if you have osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones.

Common symptoms of a fracture of the hand include:

  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Severe pain that may worsen when moving your hand
  • Bruising
  • Deformity, such as a crooked finger
  • Stiffness
  • Numbness

Who can Benefit from Treatment?

If you believe that you may have fractured a bone in your hand or wrist, seek out medical advice right away. Your doctor will perform the necessary diagnostic tests in order to determine if treatment is needed. For more information regarding treatment in the Grand Rapids, MI area, contact our office today.

Treatment Options

In order to diagnose a hand fracture, your doctor may have you undergo a physical exam and an X-ray. If it is found that a fracture is present, there are a number of treatment options that may be recommended. This includes:

Immobilization:

You may be advised to restrict the movement of the broken bone in order to allow it to heal properly. This will involve the use of a splint or cast to keep the bone in place. You will also be told to keep your hand above heart level as much as you can to prevent swelling.

Medications:

In order to reduce discomfort while you heal, your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever. You may also be prescribed an opioid medication if your pain is severe.

Physical Therapy:

Some individuals may require physical therapy or rehabilitation in order to improve the movement in their hand once their cast is removed.

Surgery:

In some cases, surgery to implant plates, pins, rods, or screws to hold the bones in place while they heal may be necessary. A bone graft may also be used to help improve healing.

Hand Fracture Recovery

Recovery from your hand fracture may vary depending on the severity of the fracture and which part of the hand and/or wrist was affected. Following surgery, patients may need to wear a cast to recover, which can take up to six weeks. Our team will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to help ensure a quick and full recovery.

Hand Fractures Testimonial

Patient's Story

“Dr. Renucci is exceptional! If you’re searching for the right surgeon and office, you need look no further! From consultation to follow up appointments, Dr. Renucci and his staff have been nothing short of stellar!”

Patient reviews

Contact Us Today

To learn more about hand fractures and the available treatment options, contact Plastic Surgery Associates in Grand Rapids, MI today. Your first step will be to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Krebiehl, our highly trained hand surgeon and plastic surgeon.

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