How long does a 4th metacarpal fracture take to heal?

Most of the healing happens between three to six weeks but can take several months for your full symptoms to settle completely. In addition, once the fracture has healed you may have a permanent ‘bump’ where the bone was fractured.

Can you move your fingers with a broken metacarpal?

Swelling and bruising in the injured hand. Visible deformity of the injured hand. Inability to use the hand—it may be impossible to move your fingers or you may have limited range of motion.

Can a metacarpal fracture heal without a cast?

This is called a hand (or metacarpal) fracture. Some hand fractures require wearing a splint or a cast. Some need to be repaired with surgery.

Do metacarpal fractures need surgery?

Metacarpal fractures are common, and most of them can be treated successfully without surgery [1]. However, open reduction and internal fixation is a common surgical treatment for unstable metacarpal fractures, and the use of metallic implants is considered the gold standard for operative treatment [2, 3].

How long do you wear a cast for a fractured metacarpal?

Treatment of a metacarpal fracture can usually be accomplished with the use of a cast. A cast is usually worn for three to six weeks, followed by gentle motion exercises. 2 Occasionally, if stiffness becomes a problem after cast treatment, a hand therapist will be recommended to work with you.

When do metacarpal fractures need surgery?

Indications for surgery of metacarpal shaft fractures include greater than 10° of angulation in the index or middle finger metacarpal, or greater than 30°–40° of angulation in the ring or small finger. In addition, open and multiple metacarpal fractures are often best treated surgically.

What is the fastest way to heal a broken metacarpal?

Treatment options

  1. applying ice to the hand.
  2. using a splint to hold it stable while it heals.
  3. not using your hand for a period of time.
  4. keeping your hand above heart level.
  5. taking prescription or over-the-counter pain medication, depending on the amount of pain.
  6. cleaning and treating any wounds on the skin of the injured hand.

When does a metacarpal fracture need surgery?

Do metacarpal fractures require surgery?

What is the 4th metacarpal?

The Fourth Metacarpal Bone (os metacarpale IV; metacarpal bone of the ring finger) is shorter and smaller than the third. The base is small and quadrilateral; its superior surface presents two facets, a large one medially for articulation with the hamate, and a small one laterally for the capitate.