Hand injury
The hand is a very complex organ with multiple joints, different types of ligament, tendons and nerves. With constant use, it is no wonder that hand disease injuries are common in society. Hand injuries can result from excessive use, degenerative disorders or trauma.
Causes
Fractures of the fingers occur when the finger or hands hit a solid object. Fractures are most common at the base of the little finger (boxer’s fracture). Nerve injuries occur as a result of trauma, compression or over-stretching. Nerves send impulses to the brain about sensation and also play an important role in finger movement. When nerves are injured, one can lose ability to move fingers, lose sensation and develop a contracture. Any nerve injury of the hand can be disabling and results in loss of hand function. Thus it is vital to seek medical help as soon as possible after any hand injury
Treatment
Most hand injuries are minor and can heal without difficulty. However, any time the hand or finger is cut, crushed or the pain is ongoing, it is best to see a physician. Hand injuries when not treated on time can result in long term morbidity. Antibiotics in simple hand injuries do not typically require antibiotics as they do not change the chance of infection
Wrist and Forearm Fractures
The Forearm and Wrist are made up of the Radius, Ulna and carpal bones of the hand. Fractures of this area are often caused by a fall onto an outstretched upper extremity, a fall onto a hand or wrist, or a direct blow to the area.
Signs and Symptoms:
Immediate pain, and swelling.
A “pop” or “snap” is heard.
A deformity at the site of the injury.
Pain when using the affected arm.
Treatment
Fractures of upper extremities should be evaluated immediately. An evaluation will consist of physical examination, X-rays. The fracture may need to be reduced (put back in place) and splinted or casted. Depending on the location and success of reduction will determine if operative or non-operative treatment is necessary. Non-Operative management will likely involve casting or immobilizing for 4-6 weeks, followed by mobilization and physical therapy.
Elbow (Olecranon) Fractures
An olecranon (oh-LEK-rah-nun) fracture is a break in the bony “tip” of the elbow. This pointy segment of bone is part of the ulna, one of the three bones that come together to form the elbow joint.
Description
Olecranon fractures are fairly common. Although they usually occur on their own, with no other injuries, they can also be part of a more complex elbow injury.
In an olecranon fracture, the bone can crack just slightly or break into many pieces. The broken pieces of bone may line up straight or may be far out of place (displaced fracture).
In some cases, the bone breaks in such a way that bone fragments stick out through the skin or a wound penetrates down to the bone. This is called an open fracture. Open fractures are particularly serious because, once the skin is broken, infection in both the wound and the bone are more likely to occur. Immediate treatment is required to prevent infection.
Symptoms
An olecranon fracture usually causes sudden, intense pain and can prevent you from moving your elbow. Other signs and symptoms of a fracture may include:
Swelling over the “tip” or back of the elbow
Bruising around the elbow. Sometimes, this bruising travels up the arm towards the shoulder or down the forearm towards the wrist.
Tenderness to the touch
Numbness in one or more fingers
Pain with movement of the elbow or with rotation of the forearm
A feeling of instability in the joint, as if your elbow is going to “pop out.”
Treatment
While you are in the emergency room, your doctor will apply a splint (like a cast) to your elbow, and give you a sling to help keep the elbow in position. Immediate treatment may also include:
- Applying ice to reduce pain and swelling
- Medications to relieve pain
Whether or not your fracture requires surgery will be determined. Not all olecranon fractures will require surgery.
