Metacarpal Fracture in Northampton & Corby
Your Local Experts in Hand and Wrist Pain
Are you struggling with Hand and Wrist PAIN and looking for effective, professional treatment? At Team Rehab UK Ltd, our dedicated clinics in Brixworth and Corby offer premium physiotherapy services to help you regain your mobility and live pain-free. With a minimum of 24 years of experience each, our highly skilled chartered physiotherapists are committed to providing personalised care tailored to your specific needs.
Understanding Metacarpal Fractures
Introduction to Matacarpal Fractures
Metacarpal fractures refer to breaks or dislocations in the long bones of the hand, known as metacarpals, which form the structural framework of the palm. These bones connect the wrist bones (carpals) to the finger bones (phalanges) and play a crucial role in hand function. There are five metacarpal bones, each corresponding to one of the fingers and the thumb. Structurally, each metacarpal can be divided into four parts: the base (closest to the wrist), the shaft (the long midsection), the neck (just below the knuckle), and the head (which forms the knuckle).
Metacarpal fractures are common injuries, particularly among individuals who engage in contact sports, manual labour, or any activity that puts the hands at risk. Immediate and appropriate treatment is essential to ensure proper healing and restore full function to the hand.
Anatomy of the Wrist and Hand
The foundation of the hand's structure lies in its bones, which provide the necessary support and shape. The wrist itself is made up of eight small bones known as carpal bones. These bones are connected to the two long bones of the forearm—the radius and the ulna—to form the wrist joint. The wrist joint plays a crucial role in the hand's ability to move and bear weight.
From the wrist, the hand extends into five metacarpal bones that form the palm. Each of these metacarpal bones connects to a finger at a joint known as the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint, commonly referred to as the knuckle joint. This joint allows the fingers to flex and extend, essential movements for gripping and holding objects.
The fingers themselves are composed of bones called phalanges. Each finger contains three phalanges, separated by two joints known as interphalangeal joints.
The thumb, however, is unique in that it has only two phalanges and one interphalangeal joint. The first joint, located closest to the knuckle, is called the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, while the joint near the fingertip is the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. These joints work together like hinges, enabling the fingers to bend and straighten with ease.
Common Causes of Metacarpal Fracture
Metacarpal fractures can occur due to various types of trauma, most commonly:
Falling on an Outstretched Hand: A direct fall where the hand is used to break the fall can lead to significant force being transmitted through the metacarpals, resulting in a fracture.
Direct Impact or Trauma to the Hand: Accidents involving a direct blow to the hand, such as being struck by an object or during a motor vehicle accident, can cause the metacarpals to break.
Punching a Hard Object: Also known as a "boxer’s fracture," this type of injury occurs when a person punches a hard object, leading to a fracture typically in the neck of the fifth metacarpal (the bone of the little finger).
Symptoms Associated with Metacarpal Fractures
Recognising the symptoms of a metacarpal fracture is key to seeking timely medical attention. Common symptoms include:
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Pain and Swelling:
These are the most immediate and noticeable symptoms, often concentrated around the area of the fracture. Swelling may extend across the hand and can be accompanied by bruising.
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Visible Deformity:
In some cases, the hand may appear misshapen or misaligned, particularly if the fracture has caused displacement of the bone fragments.
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Tenderness and Bruising:
The palm, particularly the inner or outer areas, may be tender to the touch, and bruising can develop around the injury site.
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Difficulty Moving the Hand and Fingers:
Movement of the fingers or hand can be painful and limited, particularly when trying to make a fist or grip objects.
It's important to note that while some fractures may present obvious deformity, others may not be as visibly apparent, making it crucial to seek a professional evaluation if pain and swelling persist after an injury.
Diagnosis of a Metacarpal Fracture
To accurately diagnose a metacarpal fracture, a specialist in Northampton will begin with a physical examination, assessing the hand for tenderness, swelling, and deformity. If a fracture is suspected, an X-ray will typically be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the exact location and severity of the fracture.
In cases where the fracture is complex—such as those involving multiple breaks or significant displacement—additional imaging techniques like CT scans or MRI may be necessary. These advanced imaging tools provide a more detailed view of the bone structure and help guide the most effective treatment plan.
Ensuring Optimal Treatment Outcomes
At Team Rehab UK, we emphasise that treatments which are not effective should not continue beyond accepted clinical timescales without further in-depth investigations. We prefer these additional assessments to be conducted by consultant specialists outside our company’s financial interests. This approach ensures we receive an unbiased second opinion, guaranteeing that the care you receive is the most clinically appropriate.
Treatment of Metacarpal Fractures
Treatment for metacarpal fractures depends on the severity and location of the fracture. The goal is to ensure that the bones heal correctly and that hand function is fully restored.
Non-Surgical Treatment
For fractures that are non-displaced (where the bone fragments remain in proper alignment), nonsurgical treatment is often sufficient. This typically involves:
Alignment and Immobilisation: The consultant will carefully align the fractured bones, often under local anesthesia, to ensure proper positioning. The hand is then immobilised using a forearm-based splint or cast, which helps keep the bones in place as they heal.
Follow-Up Imaging: Periodic X-rays may be taken during the healing process to monitor the alignment and ensure that the bones are healing correctly.
Physiotherapy: Once the cast is removed, physiotherapy is essential to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hand. A tailored rehabilitation program may include exercises to improve grip strength and coordination, as well as sports massage in Northampton to alleviate any residual muscle stiffness.
Complete healing from a non-displaced metacarpal fracture typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, though recovery may vary depending on the individual.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery is usually recommended for more severe fractures, such as those that are displaced, involve multiple bones, or have not healed properly with conservative treatment. Surgical options include:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): During this procedure, the consultant will make an incision over the fracture site, realign the bone fragments, and secure them using metal plates, screws, or wires. This helps to stabilise the bone and ensure proper healing.
Bone Grafting: In cases where the fracture is complex or the bone is shattered, a bone graft may be required. This involves transplanting bone tissue from another part of the body, typically the hip or forearm, to help the fractured bone heal.
Post-surgery, the hand will be immobilised in a splint or cast for several weeks to protect the repair. Recovery from surgery can take longer, with complete healing often requiring 6 weeks or more, followed by a comprehensive physiotherapy rehabilitation program to restore full function.
Post Surgical Care
Following surgery or cast removal, post-operative care is crucial to ensure a successful recovery. Key aspects of post-operative care include:
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Rest and Elevation: Keeping the hand elevated above heart level helps reduce swelling and pain.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage discomfort during the healing process. These medications may be taken orally or applied topically in the form of gels or creams but due to their side effects in certain patient populations, and interaction with other medications, professional advice should be sought prior to starting any drug regime.
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Avoiding Heavy Lifting: It's essential to avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects until the hand is fully healed, as these activities can strain the healing bone.
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Physiotherapy: Rehabilitation exercises are a vital part of recovery, helping to strengthen the hand and restore full range of motion. Working with a physiotherapist in Northampton can accelerate recovery and prevent long-term complications.
Risks and Complications
While most metacarpal fractures heal without issues, there are potential risks and complications associated with both the injury and its treatment:
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Non-Union: In some cases, the bone may fail to heal properly, leading to a non-union where the bone ends do not fuse together.
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Malunion: If the bone heals in an incorrect position, it may result in a malunion, where the bone is deformed, potentially affecting hand function.
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Infection: Surgical treatment carries a risk of infection, which may require additional treatment or even further surgery.
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Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: The surgery or the fracture itself can potentially damage nearby nerves or blood vessels, leading to numbness, tingling, or reduced circulation in the hand.
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Stiffness and Pain: Post-operative stiffness or chronic pain can occur, particularly if the rehabilitation process is not followed diligently.
We have included this video animation to help you visualise the anatomy that we, as professionals, often take for granted. At Team Rehab UK, we are dedicated to helping our patients understand the causes of their symptoms, empowering them to effectively manage their condition both during and after their treatment.
Please note that some of our videos may be of American origin and might contain slightly different professional terms or approaches compared to those used in the UK. However, the content remains highly informative and beneficial. You should seek advice form your UK based specialist before trying any advice contained, or inferred, in the video you ensure it complies with UK best practice standards.
Summary
Metacarpal fractures are common injuries that can significantly impact hand function if not properly treated. Whether through non-surgical methods or surgical intervention, timely and appropriate care is essential to ensure full recovery. At Team Rehab in Northampton, our team of expert physiotherapists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for metacarpal fractures and other musculoskeletal conditions.
If you are experiencing hand pain or suspect a metacarpal fracture, don't hesitate to reach out to our clinic. We offer a range of services, from physiotherapy in Northampton and sports massage in Northampton to specialised care covered by Bupa Northampton and Axa Northampton. Our goal is to help you regain full hand function and return to your daily activities as quickly as possible.
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