Broken Hand |
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DESCRIPTION
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Hand fractures can involve a single broken bone or several of them. When the bone next to the little finger is broken, the injury is sometimes called a ""Boxer's fracture.'' This kind of damage is often seen in people who punch walls and those who fight without boxing gloves. Healing of the broken bone(s) usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. An x-ray will show when the fracture has completely mended.
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CAUSES
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The usual cause is sudden impact on the hand during a fall or accident. Boxer's fractures occur when the hand hits something while closed into a fist.
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SYMPTOMS
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Likely symptoms include swelling, pain, bruising, or bleeding in the injured part of the hand. Your hand may feel weak, numb, or tingly. If the break pushes some bones out of place, the hand may look misshapen. If you scratched or tore some skin, you may need a tetanus shot.
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CARE
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Your doctor may order an x-ray. You may also need a splint or a cast to keep the broken bone(s) in place. Surgery may be required for a bad fracture.
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