Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Broken Hand

I completely broke the 5th metacarpal bone in my left hand causing angulation.  I was put in a metacarpal brace for 6 weeks to realign the bones, of which it failed to do.  In fact, it hadn't moved since my last x-ray four weeks ago.  My pinky finger will not come down all the way to form a fist and is turned slightly inward.  My orthopedic doctor simply removed the brace and told me to push down on it for several times a day for the next 4 weeks and then walked away with no other explanation.  The hand remains swollen and deformed at the knuckle. I would like to know if I should have had surgery?  Can anything else be done?  Should I seek another opinion? or is this just how it is done?  What are the long term effects of having a misaligned 5th metacarpal? I play the piano and flute and would very much like to know if I will regain full mobility again.  
I would greatly appreciate some sound advice!
Lily
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
700223 tn?1318165694
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
go back and speak with the doctor that treated you.  While a csmetic deformity such a "losing your knuckle" is not uncommon after a fracture of the fifth metacarpal, if there is a functional deficit, you may benefit from a course of hand therapy.
Helpful - 1
Avatar universal
Thank you for your response.  I went back and he is sending me to a hand therapist.  I am unable to spread pinky finger outward, let alone grasp things completely.  How long should I expect for me to regain full function?  Should I anticipate some limitations?  
Helpful - 0

You are reading content posted in the Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Forum

Popular Resources
Find out if PRP therapy right for you.
Tips for preventing one of the most common types of knee injury.
Tips and moves to ease backaches
How to bounce back fast from an ankle sprain - and stay pain free.
Patellofemoral pain and what to do about it.
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.